Proper Ball Weight 12/19/1999 - By George Freeman
What ball weight is best for you if you are just starting out? Well, here is something to go on: Take 10% of your weight. If you weigh 140 pounds, think about trying to throw a 14-pound ball. It's a rough guideline that doesn't work as well with small children or for people who weigh over 160, but will give you a good basis on which to start.
Basically the theory is you want a ball you aren't going to whip down the lane, but one manageable enough to use effectively over three games. You don't want to need oxygen therapy after two games of throwing your ball. The 10% rule is meant as a guideline, some can handle more weight, some need less. Newer, stronger reacting equipment is working for people in lower weights, so even if you've *always* thrown 16, you might be in for a surprise. Always check with your pro shop operator to find out what weight is best for you.