If you’re a casual bowler looking to take your game to the next level, here are a handful of helpful tips to get you there. Though it’s impossible to explain how to throw the perfect curve or score a spare, it’s helpful to know which mistakes beginners commonly make. Knowing these mistakes, as well as the importance of the right bowling equipment, can provide a deeper understanding of the sport and help make significant strides in the improvement of your game.

Use the Right Equipment

The right gear is crucial in any sport. This is especially true with bowling, as most alleys stock a variety of equipment so each casual bowler can borrow the gear that’s right for them. Selecting the right bowling ball for your strength and skill level, for example, can immediately improve the quality of your game.

When bowling, you want to use a ball that’s the right weight: a ball that’s too heavy can cause straining and injury, whereas a ball that’s too light provides less control for the bowler. If you’re looking to get serious about bowling, consider buying your own ball so you can have control over the materials used, such custom coverstocks or finger grips.

Find Your Technique

Focus on specific aspects of your approach to the lane in order to improve your overall game:

• Practice Rolling: Listen to how the bowling ball sounds when it lands in the lane. If rolled correctly, the ball will quickly and quietly soar towards the pins. A bowling ball should never be thrown – you’ll know if you’re using too much air when the ball lands with a loud “clunk,” and then slides before starting to roll.
• Analyze Each Turn: Take time after each turn to visualize and assess your performance. What foot did you lead with during your approach? How did the ball feel and where did it hit when it was released? Which way did it roll? Write down details of each turn so you can use your learnings for future games. With enough practice, you’ll learn the feel of a “correct” bowling technique.
• Practice Picking Up Spares: Bowling spares can help improve your overall score. A bowler who knows how to pick up spares can easily hold a 180 average without getting any strikes. Practice picking up spares by adjusting your throwing angle with each turn and assessing how the pins fall.  

Bowl Often

Practice makes perfect, and a surefire way to get better at bowling is to play at least once a week. The best way to practice is by joining a league so you can interact with and learn first-hand from experienced players.

If you can’t make it to your local alley, a smooth surface with a long distance can help you practice, such as a hardwood or concrete floor without any obstructions. Always mark a foul line and arrows using masking tape so you can ensure every approach is consistent with one you’d perform at a standard bowling alley.

If you’re ready to take your game a step further and are looking for ways to get in plenty of practice time, consider an in home bowling alley from Murrey Bowling. To learn more about custom floor plans and pricing, call Murrey Bowling at 310-532-6019.