Have you ever gone bowling and felt like you were in the gutter? You’re not alone. Everyone has had their fair share of strikes and gutterballs, but here are some tips to help take your bowling game from rookie status to pro level.
The Right Bowling Ball
When it comes to bowling, the ball is the most important piece of equipment. Choosing a ball that fits your size, style, and speed is essential for improving your score. A standard adult bowling ball should weigh between 10-16 pounds; if it weighs more than that it can be difficult to control. If you’re new to the game, choose a lighter ball that will be easier to handle. As you become more experienced and comfortable with your technique, upgrade to a heavier ball with more power behind it.
Picking the Right Shoes
Just like with golf or tennis shoes, bowling shoes are designed specifically for the sport. Not only do they look cool, they also help keep your feet steady when you swing back and forth during each throw. Most often, rental shoes come with slick soles, which can cause you to lose balance and accuracy during your throws, so make sure to purchase shoes with rubber soles for better grip on the lanes.
Practice Your Technique
No one is born an expert bowler—it takes practice! Developing a consistent technique helps improve accuracy and consistency in each throw, which translates into more pins knocked over (aka strikes!). When practicing at home or on the lanes, focus on keeping your arm straight as you move forward and backward for each throw. Also make sure to keep your eyes focused on where you want the ball to go—and don’t forget about releasing it at the right moment!
Find a Good Spot
The spot where you release the ball will have a huge impact on how well each throw goes down. Make sure that when picking out a spot on the lane, there is enough space around it so that you can comfortably stand in front of it without feeling cramped or rushed during each throw. This will give you enough time and room to develop an accurate technique while still being able to hit those pins hard!
Understand Lane Conditions
The condition of the lane matters just as much as any other factor when it comes to getting strikes. Keep an eye out for oil patterns left by other bowlers or any wet spots or water seeping from gutters, as this can cause slides or slips if not addressed properly before throwing. Pay attention throughout each game and adjust accordingly depending on the lane conditions for that particular round—this will go a long way in helping improve your game!
No matter what level of bowler you are, novice or pro, these tips can help take your game up a notch! Remember, practice makes perfect, so try these techniques out next time you hit up those lanes! With some patience, dedication, and determination, those gutterballs may soon turn into strikes! Good luck out there!