Why Delivery Technique Is Everything
In lawn bowls, you can't rely on raw power or speed — the game is decided by precision, consistency, and control. And all of those qualities flow from a sound, repeatable delivery action. Whether you're a complete beginner or an improving club player, investing time in your technique will pay dividends at every stage of your development.
The Grip
There are two main grip styles used in lawn bowls:
- The Cradle Grip: The bowl rests across the fingers with the thumb on the side for stability. This is the most common grip and recommended for beginners for its comfort and control.
- The Claw Grip: The fingers wrap more tightly around the bowl. Some players prefer this for greater firmness, particularly for weight shots.
Regardless of grip style, the key principle is that the bowl should feel secure but relaxed. Gripping too tightly creates tension in the wrist and arm, which disrupts a smooth delivery. The bowl should rest in the fingers, not be clenched in the palm.
The Stance
Your stance on the mat sets the foundation for everything that follows. Here are the two main stance options:
Upright Stance
The player stands with a slight forward lean, knees slightly bent. The bowling arm swings freely like a pendulum. This stance suits players who prefer less physical effort and is common among older or less mobile players.
Athletic (Crouch) Stance
The player steps forward, lowers into a crouched position, and delivers the bowl closer to the green. This provides better control over the line and is widely used at competitive level. The non-bowling hand rests on the knee for balance.
Whichever stance you choose, your shoulder, hip, and foot should all be aligned toward your aiming point before you deliver.
Step-by-Step: The Delivery Sequence
- Set your aiming line. Choose your hand (forehand or backhand), identify your aiming point on the bank or rink edge, and align your body.
- Step forward. Take a comfortable step forward with your bowling foot (right foot for right-handers on the forehand). This step generates momentum and establishes your direction.
- Pendulum backswing. Let your bowling arm swing back naturally, like a pendulum. Keep it close to your body and avoid rotating your wrist.
- Forward swing and delivery. Swing forward smoothly. As your hand reaches the lowest point of the swing, release the bowl gently onto the green.
- Follow through. Continue the arm swing upward after release, pointing toward your aiming line. A strong follow-through promotes a consistent roll and prevents snatching at the bowl.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
| Mistake | Effect | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Gripping too tightly | Wobbly or off-line delivery | Consciously relax fingers; hold bowl in finger pads |
| Looking at the jack, not the aiming point | Incorrect line, inconsistent draw | Fix your eyes on the aiming point throughout |
| Rushing the backswing | Loss of rhythm and weight control | Slow down; let the arm swing naturally |
| Dropping the bowl, not rolling it | Bowl bounces, disturbs the head | Release closer to the green; crouch lower |
| No follow-through | Pulled shots, loss of direction | Commit to finishing the swing; point at your target |
Building a Practice Routine
Technical improvement doesn't happen by accident. Here's a simple practice structure to work on your delivery:
- 10 minutes: Slow deliveries focusing purely on grip and release — no target, just feel.
- 15 minutes: Draw to a jack, alternating forehand and backhand, noting where each bowl finishes.
- 10 minutes: Work on a specific weakness identified from your last game.
Consistency in practice translates directly to confidence in competition. Build good habits now and they'll serve you for years to come.