Why Are Bowling Balls so Heavy?

Have you ever felt like you were lifting a ton of bricks when picking up a bowling ball? 

Being a bowling expert, I am asked several times on lanes “Why Are Bowling Balls so Heavy?”

Well, there are: 

2 Main Reasons why Bowling Balls are So Heavy

1. Design & Construction

The first part is “what actually makes a bowling ball so heavy?” 

Its heaviness is a result of its design and construction.

1. Material: Bowling balls are typically made from a special type of plastic called polyester or a combination of materials known as reactive resin. These materials are dense and sturdy, adding weight to the ball.

2. Size: Bowling balls are quite large compared to other balls, with a diameter of around 8.5 to 8.6 inches. The bigger the ball, the more material it contains, resulting in more weight.

3. Core: Inside a bowling ball, there is a core that helps determine its weight distribution and overall performance. The core is made of different materials, such as dense rubber or urethane, which contribute to the ball’s weight.

All these factors combined make a bowling ball heavy.

The materials used, the size of the ball, and the core inside all play a role in its weight. 

Come on, let’s discuss…

2. Why Should Bowling Balls be Made Heavy? – Purpose

To understand this deeply, here comes the 3 main reasons why bowling balls are made heavy:

• Momentum: 

Momentum is the mass of an object multiplied by its velocity. 

A heavier object has more momentum than a lighter moving object at the same speed. 

When a bowling ball hits the pins, it transfers its momentum to them. 

The heavier the ball, the more momentum it carries, making it easier to knock down pins with force. 

• Carry: 

Carry is the ability of a bowling ball to continue moving forward after it hits the pins. A heavier ball has more inertia, which helps it to carry better.

This is important because it allows the ball to knock down more pins in the back row.

• Hook Potential: 

Additionally, bowling balls are made heavy to have a higher hook potential. The weight allows the ball to create more friction with the lane, resulting in a greater hooking motion.

Umm, so what does it mean? You should go for the maximum heavy ball available? Lol, no!

Here comes a disclaimer to calm down your nerves …

Disclaimer – Why heavy balls aren’t always good FOR YOU? 

While a heavier bowling ball will generally have more momentum and inertia, it is important to note that a heavier ball is not necessarily better for everyone. 

It is important to choose a ball that is a comfortable weight for you to throw and control.

If you choose a ball that is too heavy, you may not be able to throw it accurately or with enough power. 

So, 

How to Determine if a Bowling Ball Is Too Heavy for You?

1. Inconsistent Swing or Release

If you find it difficult to maintain a consistent swing or release the ball smoothly it means that the bowling ball is heavy for you. It will affect your form and technique.

This can lead to a decrease in accuracy and overall performance.

2. Lack of Comfort and Control

If the bowling ball feels excessively heavy or causes discomfort when you lift it, then it’s too heavy for you.

It’s important to choose a ball weight that you can comfortably handle without straining your muscles or causing injury. 

Otherwise, a heavier ball can hinder your ability to control the ball and execute your shots effectively.

Important Notes to Remember When Choosing a Bowling Ball Weight

You need to understand the following points to choose the right ball for you instead of just choosing a “heavier” one …

More Weight doesn’t Mean More Kinetic Energy:

A bowler can generate enough power to knock down all 10 pins with a light ball thrown fast or a heavy ball thrown slower.

• This is because bowling ball weight does not affect the amount of kinetic energy the ball has at impact.
• Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, and it is calculated by multiplying the ball’s mass by the square of its velocity.
• Therefore, a lighter ball thrown fast can have the same kinetic energy as a heavier ball thrown slower.

Heavier weight Doesn’t Increase Chances of Getting a Strike:

• Bowling ball weight does not affect the chances of getting a strike.
• The only thing that determines whether or not you get a strike is how well you bowl (i.e., your technique and release point).
• This is because a strike is achieved by hitting the pocket of the pins with enough power and accuracy.
• Therefore, it does not matter whether you choose a heavy or light bowling ball, as long as you can throw it with the correct technique and release point.

It is Always Better to Start Bowling with Lighter Bowl:

• It is best to start with a lighter bowling ball if you are new to bowling or if you have difficulty controlling the ball.
• A lighter ball is easier to swing and throw, which can help you to develop good form and technique.
• Once you have developed good form and technique, you can gradually switch to a heavier bowling ball to increase accuracy and momentum.
• A heavier bowling ball will have more momentum, which can help you to knock down more pins, especially in the back row.

Last but not the least…

Tip for Beginners – Sometimes Culprit Is Only a Poor Fit:

Custom fitting takes into account your individual preferences and specifications.

A professional fitting can help you determine the optimal weight, size, and drilling layout for your bowling ball, maximizing your comfort, control, and performance on the lanes.

Okay, enough talk for now! 

Start searching for the right bowling weight by considering the above mentioned factors. 

Buddy, go and spell magic on lanes. Bowling alleys are incomplete without you! 😀

Frequently Asked Questions – Why Are Bowling Balls so Heavy?

While playing on the lanes I usually get these questions from beginners. So, I thought of composing them for my audience once and for all!

What Materials Are Bowling Balls Made Of?

Bowling balls are made of various materials like urethane, reactive resin, and plastic. They are manufactured through a process that involves core designs, coverstock options, weight block technology, and performance characteristics.

Can the Weight of a Bowling Ball Affect the Speed at Which It Travels Down the Lane?

If you want to know if the weight of a bowling ball affects its speed down the lane, consider factors like lane conditions, ball weight distribution, ball surface, and impact on pin action.

Are There Any Benefits to Using a Lighter Bowling Ball?

Using a lighter bowling ball can have benefits. It allows for easier control, especially for beginners. However, experienced bowlers may prefer heavier balls for increased accuracy and momentum. Finding the right balance is key to improving your game.

How Often Should I Replace My Bowling Ball?

To determine when to replace your bowling ball, look for signs of wear like cracks, chips, or loss of performance. Consider the pros and cons of different weights and choose one that feels comfortable. Extend its lifespan by cleaning and storing it properly.

Is It Possible to Customize the Weight of a Bowling Ball to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, it is possible to customize the weight of a bowling ball to suit your preferences. There are weight options available to choose from based on your personal preference and the performance impact of weight distribution.

Resources Used for Research:

Injuries in pin bowlers

Skills, Drills & Strategies for Bowling