SELECTION OF YOUR BALL

1.Weight
Select a weight which is comfortable for you but do not attempt to bowl with a ball which is too heavy or too light.

Small children should use 8 lb.balls. These balls are for children's use ONLY

Ladies should use 9 lb. to 11 lb. balls depending upon their build.

Men should use 13 lb. or 15 lb. balls unless they are extremely slight in build.

Generally speaking the heavier the ball in relation to a person's physique the better they will bowl, but only if they are bowling correctly. Champions usually bowl with the maximum weight of 16lbs. because it helps their natural swing.
When you are beginning, stay with a comfortable weight but if you assess comfort by feel make sure the ball fits your hand - a badly fitting ball feels much heavier.

First ENSURE THAT THE THUMB hole is large enough for your thumb to slide in and out without any "grab" whatsoever.

With your thumb fully in the hole spread your hand over the ball with your middle and ring fingers across the finger holds. The creases of your middle joints should be 1/4" past the innermost edge of the holes without moving your thumb

If you are satisfied then extract your thumb, put your middle and ring fingers in the holes up to the knuckle joint, pull back, and then insert your thumb again.

If you have chosen well your palm should be fully in contact with the ball without any strain on your fingers.

Carefully, give it a practice swing and see that it is still comfortable.

If you are left-handed, enquire whether the establishment has any left-handed balls.