Not enough can be said about having good footwork. The feet are the foundation of the swing, and for optimum performance, you should be balanced thoughout your approach. I am a fan of walking heel-toe, because it is closer to a natural walking motion.

Some bowlers have success shuffling their feet to the foul line, but I find it more difficult to control the length of my steps and foot tempo. If you have a tendency to rush to the line, try walking heel-toe especially on the first step (key step or pushaway step) in a four step approach or the first and second step (key step or pushaway step) of a five step approach.

The length of your steps is very important especially your key step (pushaway step). As you begin your approach, you should concentrate on keeping your first couple of steps a natural walking length -- do not step too long and out from under your center of gravity.

If your steps are really short, you will probably have a difficult time generating any body momentum to the line and will have to get your ball speed from a higher backswing. As you approach the line, your foot tempo should naturally increase to keep time with the armswing provided you have allowed the ball to drop freely into the downswing.

Power step --- I use a power step (step before slide or my pivot step), which is very short and quick which allows me to accelerate more quickly through the ball at release point. I don't suggest a beginning bowler try to attempt incorporating this power step. This is something a more advanced player may want to experiment with to increase their power.

Another point I want to mention is beginning your approach with a slight flex in your knees so you don't begin your approach too stiff and rigid. A good pair of shoes I cannot emphasize enough the importance of a good pair of shoes.

All serious bowlers should invest in a well built pair of shoes. My top picks are Linds and Dexter shoes. There are a few other good brands, but don't cut corners on shoes. If you have any questions, email me at the address below.

If you have any bowling-related questions or have a problem with your game and could use some advice from a professional bowler, Mrs. Daniels can be contacted one or two ways. Snail mail: Cheryl Daniels, P. O. Box 250014, West Bloomfield, MI 48325. Email address: Cheryl_Daniels@msn.com. Also, please visit Mrs. Daniels' website: www.my.freeway.net/`Shebe.