Parallel. This refers to a 1-to-1 ratio with the feet and the target moving the same amount and the same direction. The alignment remains constant; however, the arc point (break point) moves the same amount and direction as the adjustment.

Zonal.  This refers to a 2 to 1 ratio, moving the feet twice as much as the target, in the same direction. The alignment will open or close, depending on the direction of the move, with the arc point remaining the same.

Abstract.  This refers to a 1 to 0 ratio, whereby you move the feet, with the target remaining stationary, The alignment opens or closes, with the arc point moving the same amount in the opposite direction of the adjustment.

The proper move versus ratio is dependent upon which lane condition you are attempting to conquer. The easier the environment, the simpler the move combinations ( parallell or zonal to the inside, with exclusive parallels to the outside). The tougher the environment, the more complex the move combinations (zonal or abstract to the inside, with parallel, zonal, or abstract, to the outside--juggling textures and weights when necessary). The primary concern when using similar ratios in opposite directions (zonal to the inside, then zonal or abstract to the outside), is no counter-productive moves. Simply stated, do not ever move 4 & 2 to the inside for a Brooklyn, and then 2 & 0 , or 4 &2, to the outside when the next shot leaves a washout. When confronted with this dilemma, it is normally an equipment problem (You are on a hard wall, which requires the use of a low textured, non-reactive ball in order to minimize the definitive under and over you are experiencing).

I consider the adjustment previously discussed in the chapter as primary; let us discuss some secondary alternatives.

  Reverse Abstract.  This refers to a 0 to 1 ratio, whereby the eyes move the target on the lane to the inside or the outside, in the opposite direction of the required adjustment, with the feet remaining stationary. The alignment opens or closes, with  the arc moving in the same direction as the eyes, twice the original amount.

 Example: you are playing inside the 4^th arrow, 24 to 15, and can no longer move your feet due to the ball return. The ball went Brooklyn, so you move your target to the 22 board (2 boards to the outside). This results in opening up the lane and additional 4 boards while the projected arc point becomes the 11^th board.

Vertical Moves.  This refers to visually focusing nearer or beyond your normal targeting distance. The theory behind this adjustment is that it will result in lengthening or shortening your projection, thereby creating more skid or earlier hook. I have tried to determine the appropriate distance to extend or delete per  board of necessitated adjustment; unfortunately, when relegated to this method of realignment, the variables are increased due to the unusual visual images you are forcing your mind to accept. Suffice it to say, 1 foot per board of adjustment seems to be functional (dependent upon the environment). Some players also advocate moving up or back on the approach, from their normal starting position, as a method to increase or decrease ball speed. I have found six inches to twelve inches, in either direction, can make a significant difference (1/2 to 1 board of lateral adjustment); however, when moving forward on the approach, it is necessary to be very deliberate, or you may foul. Moving backward on the approach can result in fast feet, which may cause improper direction.

Hand positions.  This refers to changes made in the wrist position and/or the thumb position. Placing the wrist in a cupped position, with the thumb to the outside, can create additional revolutions, yielding more hook. Conversely, placing the thumb to the inside and breaking down the wrist will result in diminished revolutions, causing the ball to go very straight.

I advocate delivering the ball at the same speed and rotation, utilizing every texture/weight combination, in concert with alignments and adjustments listed to solve any environment. When this has resulted in failure, the alternatives listed on this page may be your only salvation. However, you will find a few conditions to be seemingly impossible. In that case, I suggest you get the address and never get near the establishment again!