It is important that you read these instructions carefully before using a BendaMenda™

Only in the stationary bowling position - preferably
The BendaMenda™ is predominately designed to give the novice user a ‘feel’ for the correct arm position associated with bowling in cricket. Should a more advanced player (one who can comfortably run up and deliver the ball) have the BendaMenda™ applied to their arm, they should be instructed to deliver the ball at no more than 75% of their maximum bowling speed.

 

Only for short periods of time
The brace is designed to be used for periods, only and not more than 5 - 6 minutes at a time (approx. 8-10 deliveries).

 

With no open wounds/infection (CLEANING)
The BendaMenda™ should not be used on an arm that has an uncovered wound or scratch. Clean the BendaMenda™ regularly with warm soapy water, and dry it thoroughly before / after use.

 

Correctly positioned on underside of bowling arm
The side of the brace that has the velcro straps attached to it, should be placed between the inside of the arm and the body.

 

Position the BendaMenda™  on the underside of the user’s elbow. The elbow joint should rest in the “elbow nodule” of the brace.

 

Ask the learner to present their bent arm / elbow point so it can be located in the elbow nodule half way along the brace.

 

Straps not too tight

It is essential that the straps on the BendaMenda™ are tightened to a point where the brace is restricting the extension / flexion at the elbow joint, but they should only be tightened to the point where the brace is firm but not uncomfortable. If the BendaMenda™ is restricting blood flow or causing a tingling sensation in the forearm and/or hand, or is in any way uncomfortable, the straps should be loosened immediately.  If by loosening the straps, the blood flow is still restricted or there is still a tingling sensation in the forearm or hand, or any discomfort, use of the BendaMenda™ should be discontinued.  See above for recommended use times. 

Side-on Delivery / Standing Delivery

When ready to deliver the ball, have the user ‘rock’ from their back foot onto their front foot, simultaneously swinging the arm up and overhead past the ear on the side of their body that matches their bowling arm, to release the ball.  Their non-bowling arm is pulled down and to the side as the arm holding the ball is swung overhead.  The bowler should step towards their target as they deliver the ball.

After several minutes of bowling with the brace on the arm, remove it and observe the bowling action of the user (still bowling from a standing position).

If ‘throwing’ is still apparent, replace the brace for further practice –
this may be required until the user is able to perform the correct bowling action.

 

*Continue on for STORAGE IDEAS*

A Basic Bowling Model incorporating the BendaMenda™

Step 1
Warm-Up Thoroughly

Plenty of running-type activities, and slow stretching

Step 2
Fit the BendaMenda™ (as above)

Step 3
Hold the ball in the fingers- Not in the palm on the hand ;

Step 4
Refining Bowling Skills

Rock & roll from back foot to front foot.  At the same time, swing the bowling arm past the ear / head, releasing the ball above the head at the correct instant, and complete the follow-through.

 

Step 5
Plenty of Practice

Without the BendaMendaTM on the arm.
Further work on walk-up, delivery, follow-through etc.  Then go to a slow run-up, before faster run-up, and eventually to a full run-up, delivery, and follow-through.
For further work on accuracy, speed etc. see example activities below.
Participate in simulated games / real cricket games, to apply newfound bowling skill.

 

Bowling at Target Stumps -
Gradually increase distance to stumps and the distance stumps
are apart.

 

Bowling into a Target Square -
Gradually increase distance to target and decrease area of target.

 

 

Storage - If you have more than one BendaMenda™

Wrap first BendaMenda™ to approx 45mm. After storage, this 1st BM will need to be released and stretched out before use so that it doesn’t pinch some arms.

Slot the first BendaMenda™ into the second BendaMenda™ (you will have to open up the second one slightly – push in towards 2nd BendaMenda™ straps).

Wrap the second BendaMenda™ around the first.

Continue until you have a pack of five.

Store BendaMendas™  in a  cool, dry place, after they have been washed in warm, soapy water and dried.