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Beginning Bowling Methods

By: James Jordan

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Bowling looks easy, but it takes some practice before you get proficient at the sport, so you'll need some beginning bowling methods to get off to a good start. Bowling is basically rolling a ball down a narrow lane in an attempt to knock down pins. It's great if you can do that with just one shot and it's pretty good to do it in two shots, but don't give up if you are not able to knock all the pins down right away.

  1. The most important tip and the best beginning bowling method is to make sure you have the right ball. The ball needs to feel comfortable in your hand when you roll it toward the pins. The basic rule is to use the heaviest ball you can without straining yourself. If the ball is too heavy you won't be able to control it, and if it is too light, you will tend to throw it instead of rolling it and that also causes you to lose control. Professionals and experts get balls made to fit their hands, but a beginner would likely not go to that expense. Experiment with different balls until you find one that fits.
  2. Work on your footwork. Most bowlers use a four-step approach, releasing the ball on the final step. There is also a five-step approach some bowlers use. Developing the approach is something you can practice at home. Start with the ball in front of you, lower the ball on your first step and swing it back on the second. Start forward with the third, building momentum, and release the ball with the final step.
  3. Keep it simple. As a beginner, you will need to develop a feel for the game. Do not try fancy footwork or fancy shots at first until you can make a good solid roll and do so consistently. There are various approaches, hooks and other techniques, but beginners should stay away from those. As a beginner, you need to learn to release the ball and roll it straight towards a target.
  4. Eye on the prize. Keep your eyes on the pins throughout your approach and through your delivery of the ball. Do not look at your hands or the ball. Keeping your eyes on the pins, and specifically on the exact spot you want to hit, is key to making a good shot.
  5. Aiming the ball. When you bowl, aim for the space between the head pin and the one behind it. That would be different if you were left- or right-handed. That is how strikes are thrown. When trying to get the rest of the pins on your next shot, aim for the largest group of balls. Here is where you need to avoid trying to be fancy until you develop a solid game.
  6. Ask for help. One of the most important tips for beginning bowling methods is to get help from experts. Many bowling centers have people who can help you and coaches are available. Other experienced bowlers are usually glad to give you pointers as well. Learn from them. Watch good bowlers and learn to do what they do.
Posted on: Feb. 12, 2011