Female bowlers have been making waves and setting records for decades. Their contributions and accomplishments have been around long enough to have earned many of them both national and household name recognition for competitive bowling.

So, it's easy to see how famous female bowlers inspire and motivate both their peers and fans. If you want to know more about famous female bowlers, you’re in the right place.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some amazing women who helped shape bowling history and remain famous today. 

Famous Female Bowlers: Milestones

The first recorded evidence of female bowling goes back to the 1880s, when it was not considered socially appropriate. Despite the disapproval of their peers, women continued to bowl, and the first women’s bowling tournament took place in St. Louis, MO, in 1917.

Since then, women have continued to break their own ground in numbers and records. For example, Jeannie Kelleher from WI is the first woman who bowled a perfect game. She did so in 1930.

The Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) was established in 1960 by a group of progressive bowlers. During the following years, the organization went through some changes and eventually became the Women’s Professional Bowlers Association (WPBA) in 1978.

By 1988, women showed no sign of slowing down. The number of women who competed in the Women’s International Bowling Congress Championship held in Reno, NV, set a record. The championship had 77,735 competitors, surpassing any previously recorded competition.

Since then, women have been establishing themselves as true competitors and have made sizable contributions to the sport for decades. In 2011, the International Bowling Museum help to memorialize women bowlers' accomplishments.

Famous Female Bowlers and Their Best Performances

It’s easy to list famous bowlers based on their significant achievements, but sometimes the overall performance of a woman throughout a season can be more remarkable. Here are some trailblazing women who pushed their talent and grit to the limit:

Patty Costello

Patty Costello: Costello has a record-setting seven titles during the 1976 season in as few as 17 events. This included a couple of significant victories in the US Women’s Open and the PWBA Championship.

Carolyn Dorin-Ballard

Carolyn Dorin-Ballard: Dorin-Ballard was able to tie the record for wins in a season previously set by Patty Costello in the 1970s. In Dorin-Ballard’s 2001 season, she amassed seven wins. 

Dorothy Fothergill

Dorothy Fothergill: During the 1968 season, Fothergill won four titles, including some majors from the US Women’s Open and PWBA championships. She rounded out her season by getting three runner-up finishes during the season of 12 events.

Millie Ignizio

Millie Ignizio: Going back to 1967, Ignizio had four wins in just nine events. To add to her banner season, Ignizio can boast of having earned 10 titles between 1967 and 1973.

Top Famous Female Bowlers Today

While the female bowlers of the past have made it possible for today’s athletes to excel at the sport, some notable women have earned their own right to be considered famous female bowlers in modern tournaments.

These women are:

Shannon O'Keefe

Shannon O’Keefe: This star is an 18-time member of Team USA and can boast that she is an 8-time World Champion. Even though O’Keefe still plays professionally, she has diversified her roles in the bowling world. O’Keefe is now a professional coach in Shiloh, Illinois. 

Danielle McEwan

Danielle McEwan: Currently a Team USA member, McEwan broke into the professional circuit during her college years. She’s already taken home 7 titles and has won the World Bowling Tour twice.

Jordan Richard

Jordan Richard: While still young, Richard has been able to snag titles at the PWBA Greater Harrisburg Open and the PWBA Tour Lincoln open, making her a competitor to watch out for.

Bryanna Cote

Bryanna Cote: Cote touts, having been on both the Junior Team USA and Team USA for most of her professional career. She’s also won four major titles, including the PWBA Lexington Open, PWBA ITRC Classic, PWBA BVL Classic, and PWBA Dallas Classic. Cote was also named the 2021 PWBA Player of the Year.

These ladies are so talented that you’re likely to see their names at the top of the scoreboards when you look at the most recent tournament results.

The Most Famous Female Bowlers of All Time

The bowling community has seen many outstanding performances by women over the years. This list includes the names you're likely to see come up often when discussing the great ones with others.

Donna Ademack

Donna Ademack: Not many professional bowlers can say they were bowling 200+ games when they were ten years old, but Ademack can. She went pro at the young age of 19 and went on to win 19 titles and five major titles. Ademack also has had the honor of being named the Woman Bowler of the Year four times. 

Leanne Hulsenberg

Leanne Hulsenberg: Hulsenberg is yet another woman who was able to go pro at 19 years of age. She won 26 PWBA titles and the PWBA Player of the Year award three times. Hulsenberg also won awards from the PWBA for sportsmanship and professionalism.

Robin Romeo

Robin Romeo: Romeo was the first woman who won first place at the West Coast Men’s Senior Tour. She also took home 17 titles in her career, even winning cash prizes in advanced age. Just a couple of years ago, Romero became the first woman to attend the USBC Men’s Senior Masters Tournament.

Aleta Sill

Aleta Sill: With the distinction of being the only female bowler to have won the triple crown two times, Sill has already been established as one of the most memorable female bowlers to this day. She earned 31 PWBA Championships and has also achieved Hall of Fame status at 8 prestigious bowling organizations. 

Patty Costello

Patty Costello: Costello earned 25 pro titles, including 3 U.S. Open wins and 4 PWBA Players Championships. She also set the record for the highest number of titles in a single year and was named Bowler of the Year twice.

Who Is the Best Female Bowler of All Time?

Depending on the criteria you would use to qualify a person as the best female bowler of all time, the answers from different people would likely vary quite a bit.

Everyone in the bowling community has their own opinion about who the best female bowler is and can back it up with all the qualifications important to them.

Naming a single person is difficult but not impossible. For example, if you’re searching for and talking to people about who the most famous female bowler might be, you’re likely to hear the name Lisa Wagner more than a few times.

Lisa Wagner earned an impressive 32 titles from the PWBA during her career and was named Bowler of the Year four times by the Bowling Writers Association. She was also honored to be named the Bowler of the Decade during the 1980s. 

Wagner was inducted into the Women’s International Bowling Hall of Fame after winning the Women’s International Bowling Congress Queens Tournament. She bowled 25 strikes throughout the tournament. She also won over $100,000 in a single season.

Related Articles

• Bowling in the 1970’s
• 300 Games Bowled
• 299 Game

Scores, awards, and money prizes are a big deal to many in the bowling community. And when you begin to participate in or study the talent and precision needed to attend official tournament events, you’ll understand how hard it is to accomplish what these remarkable women have done over the years. 

Whether you’re a woman looking to find some inspiration or someone curious about the contributions women have made in bowling, you can see that plenty of these individuals are worth looking further into.

Women in bowling have contributed substantially to how the game is viewed and played today. Now that you know a bit about some notable female bowlers, we hope you see bowling in a whole new light.

Repetitive motions and swinging a heavy ball can take a toll on your body. Bowling-related bodily injuries can manifest in the form of annoyances such as back pain, hand pain, and arm pain.

But one of the most essential parts of your body that you could hurt while bowling is your thumb. If you’ve done any amount of research about thumb injuries from bowling, you may have come across bowler's thumb and thumb socks.

In this article, we’re going to focus on the thumb sock for bowling.

By the end, you’ll be well-informed, and given all, you need to know about thumb socks for bowling. 

Thumb Sock for Bowling: Why They’re Important

It may seem overwhelming to even think about something other than how to make a strike. But knowing your options can really do you some good. One item you’ll commonly see bowlers using is the thumb sock. 

One might assume it seems a bit silly to use something like a thumb sock. After all, it’s just your thumb, right?

Though you should definitely try to take care of obvious areas like the muscles, tendons, and joints of your arms, back, and legs with bowling, your thumb is also critical. 

You could argue that this digit is an extremely vital part of bowling, as your fingers and thumb stabilize the ball as you swing, and it may experience a bit of strain when making a smooth release. Your thumb is crucial to getting that elusive strike – and to bowling in general.

What Is a Thumb Sock?

A thumb sock is a fabric sleeve that you put on your thumb when bowling. It helps to reduce swelling and gives a player added grip and control while swinging the ball. The sock only covers the thumb and can be made from various materials depending on your needs.

The original thumb socks slid over the thumb without any additional anchoring material on them. However, that didn’t cut it for some bowlers. These few found that while the sock helped, it would slip and slide around, negating the positive effects of the thumb sock. 

Nowadays, you can get thumb socks that are anchored with material that wraps around your wrist if you don’t like the sensation or fit of a basic thumb sock. Sizes can range from small to x large. So, no matter your needs, you’re likely to be able to find a thumb sock for you.

Benefits of Thumb Socks

Once you know the benefits of thumb socks, you’ll probably rush to get yourself one. Here are several ways any bowler can benefit from a thumb sock: 

1. Safer Play. Bowling with a thumb sock reduces your risk of spraining, breaking, or otherwise injuring your thumb during the game. It can also reduce your risk of worsening any existing thumb issues. Make sure the fit is good, as one size fits most.
2. More Thumb Traction. Bowlers may find that their hands become sweaty while bowling. A thumb sock will absorb any moisture and increase your thumb’s traction, allowing a quick exit with the inside of the bowling ball. A wet thumb is slippery, which is not conducive to scoring big or avoiding mishaps. 
3. More Feeling in your Thumb. Bowling alleys are usually air-conditioned, and your hands are the first to get cold. When that happens, you won’t feel them as much. A thumb sock helps keep your thumb insulated and warm with better circulation, allowing you to retain complete control over your thumb and ball.

Some bowlers don’t pay attention to their thumb until after something happens to injure it or cause pain. Luckily, there’s no need to wait until after an accident to protect such a vital part of your bowling game. A thumb sock might be just the kind of equipment that you need to keep your thumb safe while improving your game.

Considerations Before Getting a Thumb Sock

Before investing in a thumb sock for existing pain, make sure any thumb issues you’re experiencing aren’t being caused by easily correctable problems. It never hurts to be cautious and use one if you aren’t experiencing issues already. However, taking care of other factors that might be affecting your game first can only put you in a better spot. 

1. Proper fitting thumb hole: ensure that your bowling ball's thumb hole is the correct size. A hole that’s too small can result in an uncomfortable release. Wearing a thumb sock when your thumb hole is already too tight could lead to more problems. 
2. Proper release: pay attention to your ball release and how it feels coming off your hand. You should have a smooth consistent release. Then determine if it’s working for you. If you’re not sure if your release needs work, ask an experienced bowler or coach to take a look and watch you bowl.

While a thumb sock can still help in either situation, it’s best to rectify any issues with your form and remedy them to prevent injuries down the line.

Thumb Sock Material

As you can imagine, there are several types of thumb socks to choose from. Each one is a little different and provides various benefits, so it doesn’t hurt to try a few and see what works best.

Here are your options: 

• Strikeforce Bowling Thumb Sock Package of 2 (Large)

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Lycra: This Brunswick thumb sock is spandex and gives a bowler comfort and stretch for their thumb during gameplay.
• Rolyan Neoprene Pull On Thumb Support

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Neoprene: This material mimics rubber. It is the most protective type of thumb sock on the market.
• 3D Breathable Spacer Thumb Stabilizer

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Velcro: Velcro gives a bowler the kind of tightness and flexibility they need during their release. Velcro is adjustable and can be modified as needed.

Many manufacturers will have sizing guidelines in their product descriptions – use that when available to determine your size.

If that’s not available, it wouldn’t hurt to check customer reviews to see whether users have reported a tight, loose, or accurate fit for that particular type and brand of thumb sock. 

Thumb Sock vs. Tape

Before the thumb sock was created and readily available to use and reuse, bowlers used to tape their fingers to protect their joints while bowling. Then came the creation of the thumb sock, which now has many bowlers debating on which one is the better overall option. 

Those who use tape state that they love the customization of it. They can adjust to their thumb’s needs each time they tape up. Then, once they’re done playing, they simply toss the tape out. 

Thumb sock enthusiasts love that their sock is more cost-effective than tape while providing the kind of protection with the ultra stretch lycra, giving a consistent thumb release and versatility they need during their games.

Still, thumb socks require periodic washing – many of them are machine washable – to rid them of dirt, sweat, and oil. Thumb socks also come in various materials, allowing bowlers to select one with the right features for their bowling needs. 

Should You Wear a Thumb Sock?

When you wear a thumb sock while bowling, you’re providing your skin with an extra layer of protection. This can help you to avoid your thumb from sticking in your ball and prevent blisters or tears on the skin from friction and tension.

In addition, you can experience a much smoother release while wearing a thumb sock, putting much less stress on the thumb joint as well.

Related Articles

• Bowling Equipment and Where to Buy
• Custom Bowling Balls
• Bowling Terminology

If all of this sounds attractive to you, you should definitely get your hands on a thumb sock. Overall, thumb socks are a real boon to many bowlers. And if you can, we encourage you to add one to your bowling equipment stash.

You’ll be glad you did. We hope that this article has given you all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you progress in this amazing sport! 

Whether you're a beginner bowler or not, knowing about the greatest bowlers of all time is essential to gauge your current skill set and discover what's possible in the sport.

You'd be surprised at some of the feats bowlers have accomplished since the inception of the sport. If you want to know who the greatest bowlers of all time are, their accomplishments, and more, you're in the right place!

Let's jump right in!

Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Greatest Bowlers of All Time

Just because you belong to a respected organization like the PBA doesn’t mean you’ll end up being one of the greatest bowlers in history. Yet the organization has been fortunate enough to have many members with outstanding gameplay skills and wins among their ranks.

Here are five impressive names you’ll likely find at the top of any PBA list of exceptional bowlers:

Earl Anthony

Earl Anthony is considered one the most accomplished bowlers, winning six PBA National Championships, with 43 career titles to his name.

Pete Weber

Pete Weber has his own collection of 37 PBA Tour titles, 6 PBA 5 0 titles, and recognition of his achievements in 10 major championships.

Walter Ray Williams Jr.

Walter Ray Williams, Jr. has had 47 career titles and is widely known as the bowler with the most wins. Williams won eight primary championships during his career.

Mark Roth

Mark Roth is a legend who won 34 career titles. He also won two major championships and set a record for the most single-season championships.

Norm Duke

Norm Duke won 2 PBA 50 titles in addition to his 38 titles, which include 7 major championships.

This list is by no means exhausted, and many other spectacular bowlers’ names rank among these names for any number of reasons.

Bowling is a popular sport with many stars that are established and rising. They have worked for their status and for other bowlers to learn from. But when it comes to name recognition, skill, and achievements, these are the five names you will most likely see repeatedly regarding their PBA association.

Best Male Bowlers of All Time

Even though the PBA list includes only males, that doesn’t mean all male bowling greats are found within their lists of the greatest bowlers around.

Here are the five best male bowlers of all time: 

Jason Belmonte

Jason Belmonte has an impressive 13 major titles to his name. The fact that he’s considered one of the best male bowlers out there might not surprise anyone who knows that he was raised in his family’s bowling alley. In fact, Belmonte rolled his first ball at only 18 months old!

Mike Aulby

Mike Aulby is one of a handful of people who were able to get 8 major titles. Aulby is widely known for his overall championship performances throughout his career.

Don Carter

Don Carter won 6 major titles in his career. Carter was also a charter member and the first president of the PBA.

Del Ballard, Jr.

Del Ballard, Jr. won the titles at 2 US Opens, a Masters, and a PBA National Championship during his career. He’s included in multiple halls of fame, honoring his contribution to excellence in bowling.

Jason Couch, being the only bowler to win three Tournament of Champions titles and a Touring Players Championship, made history. He also achieved 16 PBA titles throughout his career.

The names on the Best Bowler of All Time list include some of the best players bowling has had in the sport over the decade. But remember, records are broken all the time, so several other names could easily have been listed.

Best Female Bowlers of All Time

Women’s bowling has seen some of the most talented players within the sport. So, while you’ll find many different names on lists of the top female bowlers of all time, don’t be surprised to find these five bowlers on every single one:

Lisa Wagner

Lisa Wagner is arguably the most celebrated female bowler of her time. She earned the most professional titles throughout her career and was inducted into the Women’s Professional Bowling Hall of Fame.

Patty Costello

Patty Costello racked up an impressive 25 professional titles and set a record for winning the most titles within a year. Costello is also a member of the USBC Hall of Fame.

Aleta Sill

Aleta Sill is widely known as the first female bowler to have won over one million dollars in bowling – an impressive feat on its own! Sill also won the Triple Crown twice and is a member of eight bowling halls of fame. On top of that, she also earned 32 PWBA Championships.

Robin Romeo

Robin Romeo won 17 professional titles and was named Bowler of the Year in 1980. She also set multiple records when she qualified for 77 successive tournaments.

Leanne Barrette-Hulsenberg

Leanne Barrette-Hulsenberg won 26 PWBA titles and Player of the Year 3 times. Barrette-Hulsenberg is also one of just four women who has won more than one million dollars while on the PWBA tour.

The women on this list have accomplished more than most of their peers, earning them a place amongst the best bowlers of all time. 

The Most Popular Bowlers

If you want to know who the most popular bowlers are, look above; the bowlers mentioned above are famous for their outstanding accomplishments. They’re also known for being well-liked.

These traits have fostered some serious supporters and fans over the years, making everyone on the lists above a part of the popular crowd.

You can also include honorable mentions:

Liz Johnson

Mike Durbin

Amleto Monacelli

Kelly Kulick

Jakob Butturff

Harry Smith

Danielle McEwan

Many others deserve a place on any most popular bowlers list. Visit any official bowling regulating website and look at their Hall of Fame members to find a plethora of other names. There are many other talented players to learn about there!

The Most Famous Bowler

While winning the most games and money is what some bowlers are all about, there’s a lot to be said about being the most famous bowler around. Name recognition and sponsorships are rewards in themselves, and it doesn’t hurt if you happen to be more famous than accomplished in sports.

Selecting just one bowler isn’t easy, and there are no discernable rules for what would make one bowler more famous than another. Yet, if you were to search for the most famous bowler of all time, you’d likely see the name Earl Anthony.

You likely recognize that name from the (PBA) Greatest Bowler of All Time list earlier in this article. Anthony has been repeatedly named on fans' most famous lists for years and is remembered as a master of his generation of bowling. Even though Anthony passed away in 2001, his name has been memorialized as a genuine and talented professional bowler.

Is Your Favorite Bowler Missing From Our List?

It’s entirely possible that your favorite bowler(s) is not on our list. If that’s the case, it could just be due to chance. That doesn’t mean that the bowler(s) you had in mind is no less awesome than you think they are.

You might already know an outstanding bowler who plays a few lanes down from you every Saturday. Even so, these lists of the Greats are the subject of many interesting conversations about this amazing sport.

Related Articles

• Bowling in the 70s
• Bowling a Perfect 300
• Bowling Movies

And you can continue the conversation in your own life; look to more experienced players at your alley to learn about bowling's evolution and those who have impacted it over the years.

You can even strike up a conversation with fellow bowlers and ask who they feel belongs on any of these lists. You’re likely to enjoy some lively discussions and debates.

We hope you found this article helpful, and we wish you the best with your individual growth in the sport! 

Participating in a bowling tournament is a blast for beginner, avid, and seasoned bowlers. But setting up a bowling tournament can be incredibly difficult if you don’t know where to start. Luckily, with some time, effort, and the right information, you can turn it out!

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about how to set up a bowling tournament from start to finish!

Let’s get into it! 

How to Set up a Bowling Tournament: 9 Tips You Must Know

Organizing any big event can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re setting up your very first one. Luckily, seasoned bowlers have been setting up tournaments for some time and know the necessary steps to get everything set up.

Here are some of those tips to get your tournament plans moving forward.

1. Know the kind of tournament you want to plan. There’s a wide variety of tournaments to choose from, and they all serve a specific purpose. Understand your ultimate goal before you set the planning wheels in motion. If your tournament has the potential to be a large event, this would be a great time to get some volunteers to help you out with getting people to their bowling lanes and help the day run smoothly.

2. Be prepared to talk about money. Just about every tournament has sponsorships because that’s where the biggest potential to raise money. This is also a great way to get discounted or complimentary items or services for your tourney and participants. Your sponsors enjoy exposure at your event while you get something in return, either deeply discounted or free. 

3. Decide if you’re going to charge a fee for players to be able to participate. This can allow you to offer cash prizes to the winner or top scorers in your tournament. Money is a great motivator, and the more people who participate in your event, the more prize money you’ll be able to award at the end.

4. Bowling Tournament Fundraiser and Promotion. Promotion is the best way for you to get the word out about your tournament. Decide if you need a budget for marketing to reach the number of people you’ll need to make your event a success. Figure out how much you’ll need for that advertising and account for it in your planning process. You can request permission to hang fliers around alleys, community centers, and more with details about your event and your contact information on them. And don’t neglect social media to reach more possible participants and their friends. If you figured an advertising allowance into planning your event, make use of that now.

5. Figure out your player demographic. You need to be able to set specific criteria for your participants to play on a level playing field. To keep things as fair as possible, you can specify requirements for your bowlers regarding their skill level, age, status, and more. If you expect a wide range of entrants and feel confident in assigning players to fair teams, this opens up your tournament to a wide variety of possible participants.

6. Select a Bowling Center. Once you’ve figured out the fundamentals, you’re ready to select the best bowling alley for your bowling tournament. Contact your local alleys to see which have the potential to meet all of your tournament needs. You’ll want to check what they have for open dates to schedule. You should also see if they offer a discounted rate if you need to book multiple alleys.

7. Post your rules. Get your tournament rules ready to put on display, or be prepared to be able to provide them upon request. If you’re unsure about what sort of rules to set for your own tournament, you can find many examples that others have used online for free. Be sure to include how match play will work. You can also connect with other bowlers who have set up their own tournaments for guidance and advice.

8. Prepare the materials and help you’ll need on the day of the tournament. Drafting registration paperwork and instructions for volunteers and vendors are a couple of examples. With all this work to be done, you should definitely include this in your plan. The more organized you are on the tournament day, the smoother things should run. This should also include matches and championship bracket

9. Establish a date when enrollment will close. Usually, the cutoff date will be at least three or more weeks before your event. If you plan on many participants entering, you’ll need more time to organize the tournament schedule, so plan accordingly.

Types of Bowling Tournaments

Competitive bowling provides players the chance to refine their skills and grow amongst like-minded individuals, all while enjoying themselves. Tournaments can offer that competition and personal development, but that’s not all. Your tournament can serve several purposes, like one of the following: 

Fundraising Tournament

This kind of tournament raises money for a particular purpose or organization. You can ask sponsors to donate the awards for event winners while ensuring the cash raised goes straight to the intended recipient or organization.

Corporate Tournament

Businesses love team-building events. Bowling is a great way to get co-workers together for fun and friendly competition. Since a business usually funds this type of event, all money will likely come from the company and/or other corporate sponsors.

Standard Tournament 

Standard tournaments are the most common type of bowling event and what most people think of when they hear the term “bowling tournament.” The purpose of these tournaments is to play your best and win.

Bowling Tournament Formats

Utilizing different tournament formats allows you to attract a wider range of participants. By switching things up with several formats, you increase the opportunity for participants to have fun and expand their skill set. Here are a few bowling tournament formats to consider:

• Marathon Tournament: When participants are required to play several games in a row with no breaks. For instance, they may play 6 games in a row, have a short break, and then play six more games. 
• No-Tap: Bowlers who knock down at least nine pins with the first ball of the frame will be awarded a strike with this format. Organizers can also promote games where the player is awarded a strike if at least eight pins are knocked down with the first ball of a frame. This tournament type is great for beginners. 
• Mega Buck: If there are payouts of more than $50,000 for the winners of this event, it’s considered Mega Buck or a High Roller event.
• 3-6-9: With this format, all players are awarded a strike in the game's 3rd, 6th, and 9th frame. This is a great format to use when players have a lower skill set and are still learning to bowl to keep things as fair as possible.
• Baker Team Format: Bowlers roll just two frames for each game. Organizers who are planning doubles tournaments like this format prioritize team effort over individual performance.
• Alternating Shots: This format is simple and can lead to unpredictable results. Each team of two bowlers alternates shots throughout the game. One shot, and you’re done until your teammate completes their throw. 
• Best Score: When a team consists of two players or more, the best individual score will be the team’s score. 

When planning a bowling tournament for any reason, your best resources are bowlers and/or alleys that have experience organizing them. You can ask for their help or advice as you go to get the kind of support you’ll need through the event itself.

Related Articles

• How to Start a Bowling Team
• How Does a Bowling League Work
• Handicap in Bowling
• Bowling Fundraiser Trivia 150 Questions

Don’t be shy about asking for volunteers, too. You’ll need some to help handle unexpected questions or if your event is anticipated to be large.

However, you can still request volunteers for a more minor event, especially if this is your first attempt to plan a tournament. Extra hands and ideas can be extremely useful. 

You can successfully plan your own tournament. The tools you’ll need are readily available, and the bowling community is, overall, a social and friendly one.

We hope that this article has been helpful to you, and we wish you the best of luck as you plan your first bowling tournament! 

Even if you’re not a hardcore bowler, you probably know that bowling a 300-game is both coveted and rare. Yet, many players do bowl perfect games, but only a select few can achieve that feat time and time again. If you want to know who has the most 300 games, this is the article for you.

We'll answer that question and more to satisfy your curiosity.

Who Has the Most 300 Games in Bowling?

Fero Williams has been reported to have rolled more than 135 perfect games - this is incredibly impressive. This proof comes from USBC records, giving Williams considerable validation and backing. With such an amazing feat, it's safe to say that Williams is among the best in the sport!

Fero Williams Has the Most 300 Games in Bowling

Who Has the Most 900 Series in Bowling?

Climbing the ranks and reaching for that coveted 900 doesn't come without some controversy. Glenn Richard Allison, in July 1982, did something no other bowler had been recognized for at the time, he bowled a perfect 900 series in a sanctioned competition.

This means that Allison bowled three perfect, 300 games over a three-game series. It's clear his opponents didn't have the same game as he did.

Sadly and controversially, the then ABC (American Bowling Congress) did not honor Allison's application. They cited that his lane conditions were not compliant.

Jeff Carter Has the Highest Overall Bowling Average of All Time

According to the USBC, the highest league average for an individual belongs to Jeff Carter. Carter had an average of 261.7 in the 2000-2001 season while bowling in a league of five players per team.

Carter set other records during his career and enjoyed some well-deserved wins, putting him at the top of the best bowlers of all time list for many bowling fans.

Even after his retirement, his legacy remains strong compared to many up-and-coming bowling pros. It’s worth noting that while Jeff Carter does hold the record for the overall average in bowling, he also sits atop the men’s record list.

For women, the same record goes to Shannon Plubowsky, left-handed bowler in a five-player league with an average of 250.7. Participating in PBA Tour Events: Women's Series Chameleon Championship, Women's Series Scorpion Championship, and Women's Series Etonic Championship.

40 People Have the Most 900 Games (The Most Recent Being Bryan Deck on 06/20/2022)

Bowling a 900 series isn’t easy. To do so, you have to bowl three consecutive games perfectly, meaning you have to get all strikes for three games straight. But that's not all it takes to join this exclusive list.

In order to have your 900 series made official, you must be recognized by the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA). There have been six 900-game rejections, some of which were deemed controversial. One certification was denied because the bowler used a plastic bowling ball - go figure.

If there is an actual record holder for multiple 900 games, it either hasn’t been formally certified.

How Rare Is a 300 Game

Being able to bowl a perfect (or 300-game) is still rare, but the math and technology behind bowling are helping more bowlers to reach that goal. Even with all of the right equipment, you must use perfect form and technique, leverage changing lane conditions, and know how your ball responds to your throws.

For anyone interested in learning their odds of bowling a 300 game, this section is for you. The average bowler has an 11,500 to 1 chance of achieving that feat.

According to that same source, a professional bowler's chance of scoring 300 is 1 in 460 games. As you can see, the odds aren’t in anyone’s favor, even for pros.

If your ultimate goal is to bowl a perfect game, it is possible with tons of practice, guidance, and a lot of skill. With loads of dedication, it won’t be long before you’re on your way to that goal.

Who Bowled the First 300 Game?

Though there might have been other, non-recorded 300 games long before the first recorded one, that honor goes to William Knox from Philadelphia, PA. While bowling in Toledo, OH, Knox rolled the first recorded 300-game in USBC history.

The bowler continued to have an outstanding career, even bowling a 200 game while a screen was set at the foul line so that he couldn’t see the pins at the end of the lane.

If you’re looking to witness the first 300-game bowled on TV, you’ll want to watch Jack Biondolillo at the 1967 PBA Tournament that aired on ABC TV.

The event was the first live national bowling game, and Biondolillo gave viewers a treat by bowling a perfect game in the opening match. He reportedly earned $10,000 from that event, which was viewed by an estimated 15 million viewers.

Who’s the Greatest Bowler of All Time?

If you ask five different bowling fans who the greatest bowler of all time is, you’re likely to get five different answers. When you consider that you have men’s, women’s, seniors, youth, and mixed leagues that make up the whole of bowling, there are many exceptional bowlers who can be added to the most outstanding bowler list.

Greatest Male Bowlers

When considering the greatest bowler of all time, many factors can influence a person’s opinion, including awards, titles, records, skill, and more. However, for men’s bowling, the one name that appears to come up over and over again is Earl Roderick Anthony. Anthony has 43 career titles and 10 major championships on his bowling resume.

Ray Walter Williams, Jr., a PBA bowler, is another thought to be the greatest. He earned 48 career titles and won 8 major championships, 9 PBA events, and 50 titles.

Pete Weber, a PBA member, played for around 30 years, and his skill, focus, and confidence never wavered. He had 10 major championships, 6 PBA titles, and 37 career titles. In 1979, Weber bowled in his first event on the professional circuit and made one tv finals appearance.

Greatest Female Bowlers

Trying to name just one female bowler as the greatest is impossible. Just as with the male bowlers, picking the greatest of all time comes down to what you consider necessary to earn that title.

If you ask other bowlers who they believe is the greatest female bowler of all time, you’re likely to hear at least one person give you the name Lisa Wagner. Wagner boasts 32 titles on the women’s professional tournament circuit. She was also the USBC Queens tournament champion and earned titles in many more divisions throughout her career.

Another name you might hear would be Aleta Still. She earned the USBC Women’s Championship Women’s title along with all-events titles during her career. In addition, she was named Bowler of the Year in 1984 and 1985.

Patty Costello ranks right up there with the other greatest names in bowling. She earned 25 professional titles and set a record for winning the most titles in one year. Costello is also a member of the USBC Hall of Fame.

Can You Bowl a 300 Game in Bowling?

Though bowling a 300-game is extremely rare, it doesn't mean that you can't eventually do it. With enough practice and concentration, you can definitely achieve this milestone. There are a few things that you need to keep in mind if you're aiming for a 300 game.

First of all, you need to have a good understanding of the game and its mechanics. This will give you a better idea of what shots to make and when to make them.

Secondly, you need to be accurate with your throws. This is arguably the most important factor in bowling a 300-game. If you're not accurate, then you're not likely to get the strikes that you need.

Finally, you need to have a bit of luck on your side. Even the best bowlers in the world need a bit of luck to bowl a perfect game.

Related Articles

• 300 Bowling Score
• Odds of Bowling a 300 Game
• What Is a Good Score in Bowling
• Famous Bowlers

If you keep these things in mind, then you'll be well on your way to bowling a 300 game. Remember that most people in this article spent years perfecting their game and working hard to have a recognizable name in the sport.

So be patient, practice, and learn from others so that someday, you'll the chance to inspire other new and upcoming bowlers.

We hope that this article was helpful to you, and we encourage you to continue to refine your skillset - you can reach your loftiest bowling goals!

Most casual bowlers use the house balls available at many bowling alleys - they're sufficient in this case. And if that applies to you, great! But if you're serious about your game, you'll want to have a ball that's specifically designed for how you bowl.

A custom bowling ball sounds like it might be expensive, but what does it cost exactly? That's what we'll be looking at in this article. 

How Much Is a Custom Bowling Ball

How much does a custom bowling ball cost? The type of bowling ball you want will dictate the price you'll ultimately pay. Most people in the market for their own custom balls will choose from entry-level, mid-range, and high-end balls for pros.

• If you’re looking for an entry-level custom polyester bowling ball, you'll spend between $75 to $150.
• Intermediate-level custom balls run between $150 to $250.
• High-end custom reactive resin bowling balls and particle bowling balls for pros often cost more than $250.

Factors Affecting the Price of a Custom Bowling Ball

When you’re looking to buy almost anything, you're bound to have different price points to choose from based on the item’s value. This applies to custom bowling balls, of course. Here are some factors that will affect how much you pay for your new ball.

• The brand of the ball - Not surprisingly, some brands will charge more for their custom balls than others. This is purely based on demand and popularity
• The type of ball - Polyester balls, for example, are going to be less expensive than urethane or a reactive resin bowling ball in most cases. Reactive resin balls are the most expensive type, as they offer the best performance. 
• The weight of the ball - Heavier balls typically cost more than lighter ones. This comes down to the amount and type of material used in the ball’s construction. 
• The features of the ball - If the ball has unique color patterns or other special features, it will likely cost more. More on that later. 
• The shop where you buy the ball - Some stores charge more for their custom balls than others, especially those located in high-traffic areas.

Bowling Ball Customization Options

Once you’ve decided to invest in your own customized bowling ball, get ready to have some fun with the customization process. Here are some options you might consider as you make your selections:

Material

You have options regarding the ball's coverstock material - your choices generally are plastic, urethane, and reactive resin. Plastic is best for beginners and anyone who's budget-conscious. They are also ideal for spares.

A urethane bowling ball is good for bowlers who want a ball with a little more hook potential than polyester bowling balls to improve their scores. Reactive resin is the best choice for avid and pro bowlers who want strong hooks and the best in performance.

Colors

You'll find an endless variety of color schemes to choose from when customizing your bowling ball. You can go with your favorite colors or choose a design that's eye-catching and unique.

Also, if you love a sports team, cartoon character, or other passion, you can customize your ball to reflect it. Some retailers have pre-designed options for you to choose from, while others can etch a personalized design into the surface.

Core

You can decide whether you want a symmetrical or asymmetrical core in our ball. Some bowlers enjoy the predictability of a symmetrical core, while others may enjoy the challenge and increased hook potential of an asymmetrical core.

Weight

You can select how much your customized ball will weigh. If you’re unsure what the proper weight should be, you can go by the general guide stating that your ball should be about 10% of your body weight up to 16 lbs.

Experienced bowlers don’t always go by that rule but instead by their performance when using a specific weight.

If you have the opportunity, bowl using different weights at your local alley and pay attention to your game. You’ll know when you find the perfect weight for you - things will just feel is the right bowling ball for you.

Finger Holes

You can get your finger holes drilled specifically for your hand. If you want to have your holes accurately drilled for your fingers, buy your ball from a local pro shop and have it done there. If you opt to buy your customized ball online, take it to your local shop and get the holes drilled in your new ball for your specific grip.

Benefits of a Custom Bowling Ball

Customized bowling balls aren't just for show - they can actually help improve your game. Here are some benefits you'll enjoy when you switch to a ball that's customized for you:

Improved Skill

When you have your own ball and use it exclusively, it can help you to improve your game. If you’ve been using the house balls (e.g., plastic bowling balls), you likely adapted as best as you could from one ball to the next.

With your own ball, you can take the time to get to know it and how to leverage it in each game. Since it was made with your bowling needs in mind, the consistency of using your ball can help you grow into a better bowler with each roll.

Lower Illness Risk

Having your own customized ball keeps you safer than using any house ball. With house balls, you can’t be too sure of their cleanliness and who used them before you.

If someone with a communicable disease used the ball before you, you could be at risk. When you have your own ball, you can be certain of its cleanliness since you’re the only one using it. 

Game Diversification

A custom ball helps you to diversify your game. Plastic bowling balls (house balls) aren’t designed with a specific bowler's style and needs in mind. This can lead to games where players decide against learning advanced techniques due to equipment limitations.

Your own ball enables you to work on hooks or unique shots that a house ball would not allow.

Self-expression

When you want to express yourself while bowling, you can do so with a customized ball design. Many customization services allow customers to select their own colors, finish, and/or design. When you have your own customized bowling ball, you can bring more of who you are to every game.

Lower Injury Risk

When you use a house ball that isn’t suited to your needs, your risk of injury goes up. If the ball is too heavy for you, it can cause problems with your arm and shoulder. Sometimes, it can even lead to chronic injuries that plague you long after your game is done.

However, when you use a custom ball that’s just right for you, you can avoid these risks and enjoy a safer game.

Do You Need a Custom Bowling Ball?

Whether or not you need a custom bowling ball isn’t all that simple. You can play only using your favorite lane’s house balls for a long time. You may feel satisfied with your scores and never want to change.

In this case, you may not feel the need to purchase a custom ball, and that's okay! For anyone who wants to learn and excel at bowling, a custom bowling ball can help them to achieve that goal.

If you’re frequently using different lane balls and not getting the results or feel that you want, a custom ball may be a good investment. It can help you to improve your game and enjoy a safer, more personalized experience.

Related Articles

• How Much Is a Bowling Ball
• Best Bowling Balls for Hook
• Bowling Ball Weight

So, there you have it - custom bowling balls may cost a pretty penny upfront ($75 - $250+), but they can be a great investment for avid bowlers who want to improve their game. We hope this article has helped you to better understand the world of custom bowling balls and come to the right decision for you. Happy bowling!

Red Rock Bowling is a luxury casino bowling center located in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is nestled inside the Red Rock Resort and Spa. A wide array of high-end services and amenities will surely delight even the most demanding bowlers.

Want to go? Well, first, read this article. We'll give you the pricing info you need to hit the lanes without breaking the bank.

Red Rock Bowling Prices: A Quick Rundown

Before we get into prices, let us first tell you a little bit about Red Rock Bowling. Red Rock Lanes, operated by Station Casinos, houses 72 luxury upscale bowling lanes, private VIP Bowling Suites, snack bars, a lively game room, a movie theatre, pool tables, and more.

As part of the Red Rock Resort and Casino, are also available a bingo hall, table games, 11 restaurants, and a spa. Red Rock prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and more.

Still, here are some pricing guidelines you can use to help you plan your visit. Note: Though the prices listed at the time of publishing are accurate, they are subject to change at the discretion of the business.

Regular Bowling

When you’re in the mood for some classic bowling without any extra bells and whistles, you can expect to pay $5 - $6 per game and $7 for shoe rental per person. It's important to note that these prices are higher than your typical bowling alley.

Luxury Bowling Suites

Nothing compares to your very own private bowling party with 4, 8, or 12-lane options for your closest friends in the Red Rock Lane's bowling suite. You get the works, private bar, projection screens, and customized catering menu.

Also, you will love the music because you can play the playlist of your favorite songs!

Cosmic Bowling Experience

Anyone craving a one-of-a-kind bowling experience should check out Cosmic Bowling. It's when the Red Rock facility dims the lights so you can see the glowing lanes.

The energetic music bumps while you bowl in a unique and vibrant atmosphere. For this bowling experience, the fee is currently $8 per game and $7 for shoe rental per person.

Why Bowling Prices Vary at Red Rock

As you read in the previous section, there's a price range for standard bowling at Red Rock. There are several reasons why this is the case. For one, peak times will be more expensive than off-peak hours.

If you bowl on a weekday, the price will be $5 per person per game, and on the weekends, it will be $6 per person per game. In addition to that, there may be special rates for seniors, military personnel, students, and children. Be sure to ask about these before bowling day.

How to Find Out the Exact Price to Bowl at Red Rock

If you’re looking online to find out the exact prices for bowling at Red Rock, you might have a difficult time locating them. The alley has social media profiles across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, but there don’t appear to be any price lists on them.

You can find a lot of information on the business’s website, but there aren’t any prices listed there. The prices indicated on this page were obtained by speaking with a Red Rock staff member over the phone.

You can also send a message through their website or social media platforms to request the current price if you prefer not to call. If your budget is tight, it's always a good idea to give them a call before heading over to make sure that the prices haven't changed.

How Much Does It Normally Cost to Bowl?

The cost of bowling varies by location, but you can typically expect to pay between $2 and $5 per game, with shoe rental costing around $5. So, as you can see, the prices at Red Rock are on the higher end of the spectrum. But, again, this is to be expected given the added amenities and luxury services.

How to Save Money at Red Rock Bowling

Though bowling is thought to be on the cheaper side, the fees can really stack up fast. Here are some tips to help you save each time you bowl:

• Get a membership. If you’re an avid bowler and live near Red Rock Bowling, ask about a membership program or frequent bowler incentive. The company that owns Red Rock Bowling does offer a rewards program where you can earn points based on every qualifying purchase. When you accumulate enough points, you can save a ton!
• Join a league and save big. If you love bowling and want to get serious about it, make it official by joining a league. You’ll have to pay what is considered “dues” up front, but then you can bowl at all of your league's games without paying more each time. You can find Red Rock's league schedule here.
• Bring your own bowling shoes. This one might not save you a ton, but every little bit counts! If you have your own shoes that fit well and are comfortable, you can skip the shoe rental fee of $7 per person.
• Always look for coupons or discounts. Some bowling alleys post coupons online or in the local newspaper. You can also find discounts available on services like Groupon, where bowling fees are deeply discounted. You can also call Red Rock Bowling and ask if they’re running any specials.
• Pass on alley food. If you’re tempted to indulge in the Red Rock Bowling snacks, you might need to reconsider if you’re trying to cut down on your bowling costs. We recommend eating before you go just in case the prices at the snack bar are higher than you'd anticipate and they don't allow outside food.
• Ask if there is a special discount for your profession. If you’re a veteran, a senior citizen, a student, or a first responder, you might be able to get a discount on your bowling fees. It never hurts to ask!

What Form of Payment Does Red Rock Accept?

Red Rock does accept cash as a form of payment. They also accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. They may or may not accept other forms of payment, so it’s always best to call ahead or check their website to be sure.

How to Ensure That Your Bowling Outing Goes Smoothly

Now that you know all about the cost of bowling at Red Rock, here are some tips to make sure that your outing goes as smoothly as possible:

1. Make a reservation. You can do this by calling Red Rock Bowling directly. This is especially important if you’re planning on bowling with a large group.
2. Arrive early. This will give you time to sign in, get your shoes, and warm up. If you’re running late, call Red Rock Bowling and let them know so they can (hopefully) hold your lane(s).
3. Know how Red Rock Operates. Red Rock provides bowling games and shoe rentals starting at 10 am, drinks starting at 12 pm, and food starting at 4 pm. It’s important to know this so you can plan your day accordingly.
4. Have fun! This is the most important part. Bowling is supposed to be fun, so don’t take it too seriously. If you’re bowling with friends or family, make it a friendly competition. And, if you’re bowling by yourself, try to beat your high score.

Should You Go to Red Rock?

Whether you live in Las Vegas or are just passing through, Red Rock Bowling should definitely be on your itinerary. The alley offers so much more than your typical bowling alley, from seventy-two lanes and VIP suites to Cosmic bowling and a full-service restaurant and bar.

When you consider the prices you pay at a general bowling alley versus the cost of visiting Red Rock Lanes, it’s really a no-brainer. If you want an unforgettable bowling experience, Red Rock is the place for you.

What's more, you can also take advantage of the many opportunities you have to save (above) to get an even better deal every time you bowl, including receiving coaching from USBC-certified coaches while there.

Related Articles

• Main Event Prices Bowling
• Movies About Bowling
• Round One Prices

So, there you have it - everything you need to know about Red Rock Bowling costs, from base pricing to discounts and everything in between. We hope that this article has helped you understand the ins and outs and how you can save money on your visit. Until next time!

There’s no question that Wii Sports Bowling is a fan-favorite that provides hours of challenging fun for all ages. But one thing that escapes the majority of players is the ability to get a strike every single time while playing the game.

Luckily, many Wii Bowling fans have spent all the time and effort needed to figure the game out and have shared some valuable tips and tricks to help everyone get more strikes. 

Note: A strike is never guaranteed, no matter what tips and tricks you take advantage of, but trying what has worked for others can dramatically increase your odds! 

Keep reading for some tips on how to get a strike every time in Wii bowling.

How to Get a Strike Every Time in Wii Bowling

Fine-Tune Your Settings

When positioning your Mii character, ensure you’ve selected the correct settings. For example, if you want to move your character from right to left, make sure you have “move” selected. Likewise, if you’d like to angle your character, have “turn” selected.

Look for the red line that appears to help guide you as you move your Mii in line with the last two grooves on the bowling alley floor. If you’re not sure what these are, they look like they are a bit closer to each other than all of the other grooves.

Next, press the “B” button and get the ball to roll its hardest by getting to the top of the meter. Then, you’ll want to throw the ball when the Mii character’s arm is straight down. When you can master your speed and release, this strategy will typically result in a strike.

Hook the Ball

Position your Mii, so it's directly in line with the second to last brown dot closest to the foul line. Hold your controller in front of you and keep it level with your eye. Make sure that the sensor is aimed up toward the ceiling.

Hold down the “B” button and swing the Wiimote down by your side, going back a few inches behind your hips. Next, swing your arm forward, twist your wrist to the left, and let go of the “B” button right around your belly button level.

You should notice that this swing gives your ball a hook to be able to strike the center pin, triggering pin carry or a cascading effect that knocks down all of the other pins.

This method can be tricky to master. If you’ve got a great throw but just miss out on strikes each time, try variations of your starting position. 

Take Your Bowling Style Into Consideration

Get to know your bowling style. Even though you’re playing virtual bowling doesn’t mean that you don’t have natural instinct and style when you throw. If you notice your ball hooks each time you play, you can use that hook to your advantage.

When you aim for the closest pin while throwing with a hook, you have a better chance of getting a strike than someone with a straight throw might have. This is because a hook comes at the pins at an angle, giving the falling pins a better opportunity to knock down the other ones on either side.

Play at an Angle

Keep it simple. Move all the way to the side of the lane that’s the same as your throwing hand. For example, if you’re right-handed, move all the way to the right.

If you’re a left-handed player, move all the way to the left. Then throw the ball at an angle to hit between the first and second pins in the front. No hooking is necessary. 

Give it a shot and make adjustments to your particular method of throwing. Once you find your stride, you could get to the point where you get a strike every time! 

Make a Plan Based on What Is Working

Create a blueprint base on what you did on any turn that ends up being a strike. You’ll want to pay attention to your physical position, how you swung the Wiimote, where you were positioned on the lane, the exact point you released your ball, and any other factor that may have contributed to your strike.

Once you’ve registered and mastered all of this, you will have figured out your own personal strike formula. Pay attention to what works (and what doesn’t work) and make a note of it.

You can even keep your own Wii Bowling strike journal to help you keep track of your progress. Then, when you’re finally racking up strike after strike, you’ll be glad you invested in the time and effort to of the details to give you your first perfect game!

Bowl Slightly Off-Center

If you happen to bowl a straight line without a hook, you can still get a strike. You’ll want to begin by zooming in on the lane. Next, use the remote to move yourself to the right or left so that you’re one arrow from the center.

Then you’re about ready to throw. Make sure you swing and release the ball as straight as possible right when your swing reaches the front of your hip. The goal is to hit two or more pins so that they knock into other pins, creating a domino effect to get you a strike.

Play the Game a Lot

You need to practice. Any of these methods can work, but only if a player takes the time to practice. Practice usually leads to improvement, but in this case, it can make perfect!

Try not to get frustrated if you’re not getting strikes right away. These tips are guidelines that describe what’s worked for other players. Of course, your throw and style might not be a carbon copy of theirs, so you should pay attention to your own game. 

Try different positions, arm swings, and release points until you start to have success. Then, you might not only be on your way to bowling your first perfect game, but you may also develop your own strike secrets for others to try.

Don't be afraid to even try to swing the Wiimote in the opposite direction.

Get Connected

Connect with other Wii Bowling players or start your own team. There’s no better way to play, learn and try out new ideas than from other bowling enthusiasts. Most players are happy to share the tips and tricks they’ve learned along the way!

Get Some Real-Life Practice In

Practice with a real bowling ball to get a good feel of how you should throw the ball. Yes, a Wiimote is vastly different from a bowling ball, but ignore that for a moment.

Going through the motions is the most important thing to learn when you do this.

Understanding how to control and move the ball will translate into how you hold the remote to aim and release the ball. This tip might seem silly, but it does actually help in understanding the mechanisms of bowling, whether in real life or in a video game.

You’d be surprised at how well you play Wii Bowling after getting some strikes at a real bowling alley! Again, this is not a foolproof tactic, but it’s definitely worth a shot. 

Related Articles

• Bowling Games Video
• How Many Points Is a Strike
• How to Get a Strike in Bowling Every Time

Finally, let’s get real here – getting a strike every time in Wii will take a ton of time and practice with a bit of trial and error. You’ll probably be tired of the game before you’re able to brag about your accomplishment.

However, if you really love the game and don’t mind getting immersed in it, all you really have to do is take the blueprints of what’s been successful for others and tweak it to fit your bowling style.

We hope that you found this article to be helpful, and we wish you the best as you get those Wii strikes!

If you’ve ever watched bowling tournaments or bowled yourself, you know the game can provide countless hours of drama and entertainment on many levels. That’s why the sport has been used repeatedly to create tense, comical, and passionate stories that make some of the best movies ever. If you want to indulge in a bowling movie, you’ve found the right article.

This is your ultimate bowling movie guide, where we’ll introduce you to some of the best bowling movies in existence!

Best Bowling Movies

When you can’t be at the bowling alley, a bowling movie can be the perfect substitute in the interim. Any of these flicks can be our top five bowling movies, and we want to provide some suggestions to get you started:

Dreamer

This bowling drama was released in 1979 and starred Tim Matheson and Susan Blakely. Dreamer tells the story of a young man whose only dream in life is to become a championship bowler. His life changes drastically when he decides to sacrifice everything to pursue that dream.

The movie's storyline is said to be similar to that of Rocky, so if you’re a fan of that movie, this will be right up your alley - pun intended. Tim Matheson plays the lead character as a guy in a small town with some talent in 10-pin bowling. His ultimate dream is to go on tour and play with the pros.

He’s supported by his girlfriend and cantankerous manager as he tries to make it to the big time. If you’re familiar with bowling legend Dick Weber, you’ll enjoy seeing him at the beginning and end of the movie.

This movie has a PG rating, making it an excellent choice to watch with the whole family.

Kingpin

Released in 1996, this raunchy and funny movie starring Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid, and Bill Murray captured the attention of bonafide bowling fans and newbies alike. The story is about a bowler named Ernie McCracken, whose promising career ended when a pro, Roy Munson, came after him after an embarrassing defeat. The ensuing revenge scheme ended up costing Ernie his hand.

Ernie sees his way back into the world of professional bowling when he becomes the manager of an unknown yet gifted bowler. They are able to compete against Munson for a $1 million tournament where the winner will take all. The movie was shot at Beaver Bowling Alley.

This movie is rated PG-13 and features adult themes throughout it. However, as long as you’re not easily offended, this movie will provide lots of laughs.

Kingpin - 1996 - Opening Scene

Gutterballs

This horror movie came out in 2008. The movie starts innocently enough when a group of teens decides to have a bowling night at a very late hour. However, while this movie takes place in a bowling alley, ultimately, the game becomes secondary to the teens trying to survive brutal attacks from a serial killer.

Gutterballs received an NC-17 rating due to the nature of its content and its language. If you are easily offended, this flick is not for you. Since it’s considered a sport, horror, and comedy film, this one might be a good one to watch when you want to see a scary movie centered around bowling.

Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama

Only, and I mean only, the 1980s could pull off a horror film with this name. This is a movie that features bowling, but mainly as a location. It really doesn’t have much to do with the sport.

This movie tells the story of a ritual required of pledges and their boyfriends. Their task is to steal a trophy from a nearby bowling alley. What they don’t know is that there’s an imp in the trophy who does everything possible to destroy the thieves.

This movie is rated R, likely for violence and adult themes, so don't watch with the kiddos. This is another good one to watch when you’re looking for a horror flick that takes place in a bowling alley.

When Jeff Tried to Save the World

This little gem came out in 2018 and caught the attention of both critics and viewers alike with its gentle humor and heart. When the bowling alley manager learns that the owner is looking to sell it, he scrambles to try and save it. The manager enlists the help of a high school druggie, a spicy chef, and an elderly bowling champion, along with a few conversations with Pac-Man to try and save it.

While the film doesn’t appear to have been rated, it’s a good idea to screen it before allowing more sensitive family members to watch it. The drug use and references are enough to view this one with discretion.

Atom the Amazing Zombie Killer

Another comedy-horror flick brings bowling to the big screen once again. This movie was released in 2012 and revolved around a guy named Atom who loves bowling and horror movies. Corruption and violent rivals result in Atom getting booted out of his local league.

He also suffers a head injury which makes him see everyone around him as a Zombie. Of course, Atom believes that this means the zombie apocalypse is happening, and he must destroy all of them.

This movie doesn’t have an official rating, but between the violence and sexual content, it is likely best viewed by a mature audience.

Alley Cats Strike

Disney has its own original bowling movie for those who enjoy the sport. When a basketball championship is locked in a tie, the teams enter a bowling competition in two different cities to compete for the ultimate win. There's only one trophy, so there can only be one winner.

This one fits the bill if you’ve been looking for a genuinely cute and family-friendly bowling movie. It’s rated G and was made for the Disney Channel. 

The Big Lebowski

This is arguably the greatest bowling movie around bowling today. The plot starts when an avid bowler known as “The Dude”, played by Jeff Bridges, becomes a victim of mistaken identity. As a result, his rug becomes soiled. Seething with anger, he gathers his bowling buddies to make things right. 

This is one of those movies that wasn’t well-received when it first came out but built quite a cult classic following. The movie has an R rating, so keep that in mind if watching with anyone else.

Split

This movie is best described as a quirky bowling themed romantic comedy and has bowling weaved throughout the story. A successful woman about to turn 30 decides to throw caution to the wind and take a chance on love. She can’t deny her attraction to bowlers and chooses to marry one.

This movie shares its title with a very different kind of movie that came out in the same year (2016), so make sure the one you watch has to do with a single woman who has a thing for bowlers. The rating for this movie is PG, making it a good one for just about everyone.

Bowling Movie Documentaries

Want to get an inside look at the sport’s history and most famous names? Perhaps a documentary is more your speed. Here are some of the best bowling documentaries. 

A League of Ordinary Gentlemen

This documentary is a must-see for any true bowling fan. The director of this film follows four of the best bowling pros for twenty weeks during the 2003 PBA season. With a $120,000 prize as motivation, this makes for some tangible excitement.

The movie also showcases the media’s relationship with the sports world, allowing viewers to see the difference between the truth behind bowling and the lens through which the media wants people to perceive the sport.

This movie is rated PG-13. As it’s a documentary, there’s likely to be loose language throughout the film. If you have any hesitations about viewing this with others, a pre-screening might be in order.

Strike: The Greatest Bowling Story Ever Told

Without giving too much away, this documentary that came out in 2014 follows the story of Bill Fong. During the day, he works at a bowling shop, and when he’s off work, he can be found studying bowling videos and playing 20 games per week as a member of four different leagues. His ultimate goal is to go pro.

This documentary isn’t rated, so use discretion when watching it. 

Bowling Movie Shorts

Don’t have time to watch an entire movie? No worries. Go for a short, instead. One of the below shorts is sure to satisfy your craving for bowling-related entertainment! 

Life in the Bowling Lane

Be prepared to let go of reality while you watch this movie. This one tells the story of the Unknown Comic, who decided to go bowling after his hot date canceled on him. The story then takes viewers on a wild ride at the kookiest bowling center ever.

The Unknown Comic becomes friends with the bowling instructor at the alley before he sees his hot date bowling with another man. Of course, the two men must duel it out with a bowling match to see who wins the date with the girl.

The ending might be predictable, but the ride to get there is a wild one. This 2005 release is a short one coming in at about forty minutes. It is rated PG.

Strikes and Spares

People passionate about bowling will definitely want to watch this short. It was released in 1934 and is only about nine minutes long. The short features a professional bowler named Andy Varipapa, who shows viewers how to properly grip a bowling ball and the proper form for throwing the ball down the alley.

If seeing bowling tips from so long ago isn’t your thing, you still might want to take the nine minutes to watch this clip. You’ll get to see the star perform several trick shots.

This short doesn’t have a rating. The purpose of this short is to help bowlers with their form and delivery. And it adds some entertainment in the form of neat trick shots.

Strikes and Spares (1934 MGM Short)

The Bowling Alley-Cat

You might have to be of a certain age to know who Tom and Jerry are, but it’s okay if you don’t. They’re a cat-and-mouse duo who entertained many children with tales of outsmarting each other during chases.

This short features Tom the cat and Jerry the mouse in a bowling alley, playing for fun. Yet Jerry can’t resist taunting Tom by playing among the pins. The ultimate goal for Tom is to bowl little Jerry down.

As this is a cartoon from 1942, it is safe for all to watch for some good bowling fun.

Tom & Jerry - The Bowling Alley Cat - Season 1 Episode 7 Part 1 of 3

Best Movies With Bowling Scenes

A really good movie with a memorable bowling scene or two might be just what you’ve been looking for. Keep reading to discover some of the best movies with Bowling Scenes. 

The Breakup

This movie is pretty polarizing - there are many who love it and just as many who hate it. But what can’t be disputed is the fact that it brings bowling into the plotline in an interesting way. The couple, who eventually break up, used to bowl together.

However, that changes when they break up. The female character informs her ex that he's kicked off the team because it was couples’ bowling, and they are no longer a couple. Queue the rollercoaster of emotions

While the movie doesn’t take place or revolve around bowling, it brings up some of the more uncomfortable things that must be decided upon in the case of a split.

The Next Karate Kid

Don’t judge a bowling scene by the movie it appears in. This one does have a pretty satisfying bowling scene in it.

The beloved Mr. Miyagi shares some wisdom with the young Karate Kid while among his league of bowling monks. While it sounds a bit strange and far-fetched, a group of obnoxious bowlers gets put in their place by the bowling monks. Since just about everyone watches Karate Kid movies to see the bullies get put in their place, the bowling monks can give you that satisfaction.

Uncle Buck

The legendary late John Candy starred in this 1980s classic comedy film. He plays the uncle to a teenager and two young kids who he’s babysitting. Since he’s a big bowler, he takes the kids to the alley and begins to teach them about the game.

This movie is funny and has some sweet moments to warm the heart. There’s also some satisfaction in watching younger people begin to appreciate the sport of bowling, even if it is all make-believe.

Pleasantville

If you haven’t seen this movie, know that it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But there is a single bowling scene that might be worth looking up. This movie’s bowling scene begins with a pan of the local bowling alley.

Then, everyone bowling is seen simultaneously and expertly picking up a spare from a 7-10 split. While this can only be made of pure fiction, it is satisfying to see it done as if it happens all the time!

Critters

Monster movies from the 1980s are just pure fun. Critters is no exception!

The movie features a bowling scene involving two intergalactic bounty hunters. They basically rip off the doors to a bowling alley, stroll up to the approach and send a ball down the lane. That ball rolled with such power and perfection that it caused the pins to explode upon impact.

Of course, this would never actually happen, but it’s great to see it on film!

The Flintstones

While you can always catch some fictional bowling with classic episodes of The Flintstones cartoon, you’ll have to see the 1994 live-action movie to enjoy this bowling moment. You’ll see Fred, played by John Goodman, twinkling up to the foul line on his toes as the pins are reset by crabs.

Many people were introduced to bowling through the prehistoric lens of the cartoon. So it’s pretty cool to see it included in the live-action film, too.

Men in Black 3

The third installment of this franchise isn’t the most popular one, but it does feature an outer-space bowling scene. When the Men in Black interrogate an alien, they take his head and use it as a bowling ball. The throw gets a 7-10 split. You’ll have to watch the scene to see how it ends!

Superman III

The original Superman, played by Christopher Reeves, serves up some bowling in its third installment of the beloved superhero movies. Clark Kent wants to keep a smaller kid from being humiliated at the bowling alley and does his best to help out.

Kent (aka Superman) pretends to sneeze, and his super-powered force blows all the pins into nonexistence. The crowd cheers on the smaller kid, giving the underdog the win we all want to see.

Grease 2

The main reason people know this film exists is that it starred Michelle Pfeiffer before she was a wildly successful actress. You might also know that the song “We’re Gonna Score Tonight” originated in this movie.

Even if you’ve never heard of this movie or the song, the movie character's local hangout is the bowling center. So you get a well-known actress, a catchy tune, and scenes at the local bowling alley and actual bowling. Not bad for a pretty entertaining film.

Mystery Men

While this movie isn’t about bowling, nor does it take place in a bowling alley, it must be included on this list. The film features some unorthodox superheroes, and the one named Carol can fight with her bowling ball that happens to be possessed by her dad's spirit. It’s worth noting that his skull has been placed inside her bowling ball.

You can enjoy seeing the bowling ball in action throughout the movie. The speed, precision, and force of the bowling ball are enviable. It’s also pretty satisfying to see an unconventional weapon like a bowling ball turned into something fierce and deadly.

Related Articles

• Round 1 Bowling & Amusement
• How Much Does It Cost to Open a Bowling Alley
• How to Become a Pro Bowler

Bowling movies are fun and can be enjoyed on a whole different level when you’re familiar with the game. These great movies also provide an excellent way for bowlers to share that passion with each other and friends. We hope this article was helpful to you and that you have a ball checking out these cool flicks. 

New bowlers walk up to the bowling ball racks, choose a ball weight and color they like, and then play their game. But what most don’t know is that there are many more things to consider before choosing a bowling ball, and the core is one of the most important. Two of the main bowling ball core types are symmetrical and asymmetrical.

If you want to learn more about each of them, we can help. In this article, we’ll give you the rundown on symmetrical and asymmetrical bowling balls so you’ll know which one to choose and how it can impact your game.

Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical Bowling Balls

Bowling Ball Core

A bowling ball core is the innermost part of the ball. Its main purpose is to provide weight and balance to the ball. The size, shape, and weight of the core all affect the performance of the ball.

You’ll need to know this in order to understand the rest of the article. 

What Is a Symmetrical Bowling Ball?

If you've bowled with a house bowling ball, more than likely, you bowled with a symmetrical bowling ball. What makes a bowling ball symmetrical? The core.

A symmetrical bowling ball's core is identical when split in half. The weight of the ball is evenly distributed on both sides, making it easier to control. The symmetrical shape also allows for more consistent results when bowling and predictable ball reaction.

Here’s what you can expect if you bowl using a symmetrical bowling ball:

1. This ball gives the player a smooth and more calculable motion post-release.
2. A symmetrical core works best for players who throw slower, less aggressive balls. This ensures more predictable ball behavior.

A symmetrical ball's predictability and uniform balance might sound appealing, but there are times when a bowler might feel that an asymmetrical ball would perform better. Certain lane conditions and bowling styles can impact whether a symmetrical ball would be the best choice for you.

What Is an Asymmetrical Bowling Ball?

Simply put, when bowling balls have asymmetrical cores, it means the inside of the bowling ball is heavier on one side than the other. The core weight is not even like it is in symmetrical bowling balls. The asymmetrical core type imbalance is what helps the bowling ball hook.

Traditionally, these balls are used by players who put a lot of power behind their throws. The speed can reduce the ball’s rev rate (and resulting hook), and asymmetrical balls can help with that issue.

Here’s what you can expect if you use an asymmetrical bowling ball:

1. The ball tends to be more reactive with sharper movements. 
2. Speed bowlers may find asymmetrical balls better for their game, especially if they prefer hook shots.

While the thought of using an asymmetrical bowling ball might sound too unpredictable, many players find that they actually have more control. So, if you’re bowling with a symmetrical bowling ball and having problems getting it to perform the way you’d like, it might be time to try an asymmetrical ball.

What’s the Difference Between a Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Bowling Ball?

The difference between symmetrical and asymmetrical balls can appear complicated. So, we’ll give you a simplified explanation here:

Symmetrical bowling ball cores have the same weight distribution on both sides of the ball. Think 50-50, split evenly down the middle. While asymmetric bowling balls have a mismatched weight distribution. Think 70-30, creating lopsidedness or lean in the roll. This core weight distribution difference makes asymmetrical balls roll differently than symmetrical balls. In addition, asymmetrical balls have three core specifications, RG, differential and intermediate differential)

When to Use a Symmetrical Bowling Ball

Is a symmetrical bowling ball for you? Symmetrical bowling balls are best suited to people who prefer straight shots. The symmetrical core will help to ensure that the ball doesn’t go off course very easily. Most of the bowling balls at your local bowling alley are symmetrical balls, so most people have experience with this ball type.

If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with a symmetrical bowling ball, as they are relatively easy to control.

When to Use an Asymmetrical Bowling Ball

The thought of using a bowling ball that isn’t symmetrically balanced can be off-putting to some, but it works for many bowlers. Most bowlers using an asymmetric ball tend to throw higher ball speed and with stronger spins.

Asymmetrical balls are also used when a bowler is playing on heavily oiled patterns. These lanes don’t provide enough friction, affecting ball motion, and give players a better chance of getting traction and achieving a strong backend hook.

A Misconception About Symmetrical Bowling Balls

Some people think that symmetrical bowling balls don’t hook because of their balanced core. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. While symmetrical cores are not built for major hooks, when paired with certain overstocks, symmetrical bowling balls can hook.

But it’s important to know that symmetrical balls will not hook as much as asymmetrical balls that have similar specs. It’s important to understand that before proceeding further.

Do Asymmetrical Bowling Balls Cost More?

Asymmetrical bowling balls tend to cost more than symmetrical bowling balls. The reason for this is that more research goes into the ball construction process and design, giving certain bowlers a higher chance of scoring big.

Though that's the case, the cost difference between the two isn't usually significant. And there are so many other things that can alter the price of a ball (which we'll touch on in the following section). 

Other Things to Consider When Choosing a Bowling Ball

Now that you understand the concept of symmetrical and asymmetrical bowling balls, it’s time to learn about the other factors you should consider when choosing a bowling ball. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Your bowling style: Certain bowling balls work better for different styles. If you’re a power player, an asymmetrical ball might be a good choice for you. But if you prefer straight shots, stick with a symmetrical ball.

Your bowling alley: The bowling alley you frequent most often will likely have a particular type of lane. If you’re not sure what type of lane it is, ask a staff member. They should be able to tell you whether the lanes are dry, oily, or in between.

Particularly knowledgeable staff will be able to tell you which oil pattern is most common there. You’ll want to choose a bowling ball that works best for that type of lane.

Your budget: Bowling balls can range in price from around $40 to $250+. It’s important to know how much you’re willing to spend before you start looking, as it can be easy to get caught up in the moment and spend more than you intended.

The size of the ball: Another factor you should consider is the size of the ball. Bowling balls come in a range of sizes, from 6 pounds all the way up to 16 pounds. It’s important to choose a ball that you can comfortably lift and throw.

Usually, a ball that’s 10% of your weight will be ideal. If you weigh more than 160 pounds, go with a 16 pound ball. 

The coverstock of the ball: The coverstock of the ball is the outer layer. It determines how the ball interacts with the lane. There are three main types of coverstocks:

• Polyester: Polyester is the cheapest coverstock type, and it's also the least reactive. It's a good choice for beginner bowlers or anyone on a budget. Polyester balls are not as reactive as other types of balls, so they are not ideal for experienced bowlers who need more hook. Though, all players can use these balls to pick up spares. 
• Urethane: Urethane bowling balls are more reactive than polyester bowling balls. This means that they have more hook potential. Avid and pro bowlers favor this ball type for its moderate reactivity. Though, beginners might also use them after they get a handle on bowling with polyester balls.
• Reactive Resin: Reactive resin bowling balls are the most reactive of them all. They hook strongly near the end of the lane to help you get into the pocket and bag those strikes.

Where to Buy Bowling Balls

If you’re looking for a great place to buy bowling balls, Amazon is a great option. They have a wide selection of balls to choose from, so your chances of finding the perfect ball for you are high. They also have a great return policy, so you can return the ball if it’s not for you. 

If you need to go to a brick and mortar, always visit your local pro shop and see what they have in stock.

Top Five Symmetrical Balls

Every year, bowling ball manufacturers produce better and more sophisticated symmetrical balls. Here is a selection of the most popular, top-rated symmetrical bowling balls for sale:

• Brunswick Rhino Pre-Drilled Bowling Ball (Reactive)

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Brunswick Rhino Red Black Gold Pearl Bowling Ball: This bowling ball’s core is symmetrical, but the coverstock is reactive, so you don’t have to sacrifice hooking potential for predictability. This ball produces consistent reactions while gliding down the lane. You might find this ball at your local pro shop, or you can get one online for a little over $100. The ball comes pre-drilled in 5 different weights.
• Storm Phaze III (Hybrid Reactive)

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Storm Phaze III Bowling Ball: This ball was designed to perform at the highest possible level with the brand’s famous “Velocity Core”. It’s the go-to ball for many pros. While the price comes in at around $140+, the rave reviews are just enough to justify the price tag.
• Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball, Red/Blue/Purple, 15 lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Storm Phase II Bowling Ball: This is a symmetrical ball with a reactive coverstock for considerable hook potential. You don’t often see a review average of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon, but this ball has earned it. Reviews state that, overall, this is a great ball. It handles dry to medium-heavy oil very well.
• Brunswick TZone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball (Plastic)

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball: This ball has a symmetrical core but very little hook potential due to its plastic coverstock. A bestseller on Amazon and other bowling supply sites, this ball is reviewed as being a great one for straight bowlers, although more experienced players have found this ball to be a great addition to their game. This ball runs on the more affordable side, topping out at around $70, depending on the size and color you order.
• 900 Global Zen 15lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  900 Global Zen Bowling Ball: The core of this ball is Meditate Symmetric and covered in a pearl coverstock. It gives you high performance with the ability to open angles in medium to heavy oil. People love this bowling ball for its versatility and ability to handle most lane conditions. 

Top Five Asymmetrical Balls

While symmetrical bowling balls are the most popular type for beginners, there are some great asymmetrical balls on the market you should know about. Here are five of the top options available on Amazon:

• Storm Proton Physix 12lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball: This bowling ball hooks on any oil-heavy lane condition you might come across. With 4.8 stars out of five from 262 reviews, you can’t get much better than that! The price of this one runs anywhere from $175 to $200.
• Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl Urethane 14lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  . Hammer Black Widow Urethane Bowling Ball: Hammer took everything bowlers loved about their last few balls and combined them in this one! The asymmetrical core offers bowlers a way to maximize their hook, regardless of the lane condition. This ball comes in at around $126, making it a reasonably priced addition to any bowler’s equipment stash.
• Radical The Spy 15lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Radical the Spy Bowling Ball: This ball's Incognito core and textured polyester coverstock give the ball loads of kick as it sails down the lane. It also has an attractive exterior. At close to $105, this ball is well worth the money; you’ll agree when you see the product reviews.
• Brunswick Quantum Evo Solid 15lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Brunswick Quantum Evo Solid Bowling Ball: The Quantum series is famous for its mushroom-shaped core. The brand’s engineers have modified that legendary mushroomed core so that the ball will have better adhesion, longevity, and hitting power. This new design combines the better-performing core with an Evolution Reactive coverstock for more control and increased energy. Depending on the ball you order, you could pay anywhere from $175 to $200+.
• Track Bowling Products Ebonite Kinetic Black Ice 15lb

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Track Kinetic Black Ice Bowling Ball: Track Bowling already has a great bowling ball line-up, but that doesn’t stop them from working to meet the needs of every type of bowler. The Black Ice ball has the same core fans love and has relied on for years to get the most out of their throw, but this model is fitted with the Quick Response cover for better movement. This ball can range from $135 up, so shop around for the right one for you.

Do You Need to Get Your Symmetrical or Asymmetrical Ball Drilled?

If you’ve found the perfect bowling ball, congrats! The next step is to get it drilled. This process involves creating holes in the ball so that it fits your hand perfectly.

Most bowling balls come undrilled, so you’ll need to take it to a pro shop to have it done. At the pro shop, they’ll ask you to try out a few different finger and thumb sizes to find the perfect fit. Once you’ve found your ideal size, they’ll drill the holes in the ball and insert the plugs.

Drilling the ball is an important step, as it ensures that you’ll be able to grip the ball correctly and bowl with maximum power and accuracy. Symmetrical drilled balls have smooth, controllable motion.

Could You Use Both Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Bowling Balls?

There’s no rule that says you can only use one type of bowling ball. In fact, many bowlers like to have a symmetrical ball for dry lanes and an asymmetrical ball for oilier conditions.

The good thing is that there are so many options available to customize your experience and help you (or your child) bowl the best game possible. So, if you’re interested in trying out both ball types, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect fit for you.

When to Seek Help With Ball Selection

Whenever you’re feeling unsure about your bowling ball selection, it’s always a good idea to ask for help from a certified bowling pro. These experts can help you select the perfect ball based on your bowling style, lane conditions, and more. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when it comes to something as important as your bowling ball – after all, your ball can make a lot of difference in your game. 

Not everyone knows a bowling pro. Thankfully, you can always talk with your fellow bowler at your local pro shop. They'll usually be more than happy to assist you. 

Your Ball Won’t Instantly Make You a Pro

We'd be remiss if we didn't touch on a popular myth about bowling balls: that a certain ball will immediately make you a great bowler.

This simply isn't true. While a given ball can certainly help you bowl better, it won't do all the work for you. You still need to put in practice to hone your skills and perfect your technique if you want to be a great bowler.

The bottom line is this: having a compatible bowling ball is just one part of the equation. You also need to have the skill and dedication to bowl well.

Related Articles

• Bowling Ball Core and Bowling Ball Core Types
• Inside a Bowling Ball Cut In Half
• How Heavy Is a Bowling Pin

As you can see, there are some major differences between symmetrical and asymmetrical bowling balls. And we hope that we've illuminated them sufficiently and helped you decide which one is best for you. 

Just remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game. So, whichever type of ball you choose, make sure that it's the one that you're most comfortable with. Good luck!

Anyone interested in learning more about bowling is often surprised by the number of unique terms and phrases that come along with the sport. The language used can seem foreign and complex depending on your basic understanding of the sport. Luckily, this guide is here to help you parse through it all.

Common Bowling Terms and Phrases

While working on your form and throw, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with bowling-specific terms and definitions. Here’s a nearly comprehensive list to help you figure some of these terms out and grow your knowledge. It’s a good idea to bookmark this page, print it out, or keep it open on your mobile device.

You’ll want quick access to it, especially whenever you spend time at the bowling alley. 

Bowling Terms for Beginners

Whether you’re brand new to bowling or just interested in learning some more details about the game, here are some basic terms to help you build your knowledge bank.

• Ball Rack: This refers to the area where you'd place your ball after you've chosen it. It is also the place where you'd pick your ball up before each turn and where your ball returns after each throw or roll. Ball rack can also refer to the area in the bowling alley where the bowling balls are stored. Typically near the lanes.
• Bowling Ball: This is the ball players use to roll down the lane and knock pins over. Most bowling balls have three holes drilled into them and come in various weights and coverstocks. Most balls weigh between 6 and 16 pounds and are appropriate to use at any alley. 
• Bowling For Beginners: An online blog run by content publisher, Kira Byrd. She's an avid bowler and enjoys sharing her knowledge of bowling with others.
• Bumpers: Bowling bumpers are metal or plastic gutter coverings or rails that pop up on the side of your lane. They prevent your ball from going into the gutter
• Foul Line: As you approach the bowling lane, you will see a horizontal line on the floor at the beginning of it from gutter to gutter. This is the foul line. You never want to touch or cross that line, as your points for that throw won’t count. 
• Gutters: The grooves that look like little long ditches on either side of a bowling lane are called a gutter. Bowlers want to avoid getting their ball in the gutter because their throw will count, but they won’t get any points. 
• Perfect Game: A perfect game occurs when a player knocks down all of the pins (also known as a strike) on every turn of their game. This score is the highest in bowling, also known as a perfect score, which is 300.
• Pins: The objects you want to knock down at the end of the bowling lane are called pins. Ten of them are placed 60 feet beyond the foul line. 
• Spare: If a bowler can knock down all of the pins within two throws, they will have bowled a spare.
• Strike: When you knock down all the pins with your first throw of the frame, you have bowled a strike. This will earn you the maximum number of points.

Some terms you may already know, but if not, this page is for you. 

Common Bowling Terms 

Once a person moves past the basic understanding of a bowling game, it’s time to learn about all other terms, definitions, and aspects that make up a bowling experience. This list is extensive but by no means a definitive list of common bowling terms and definitions:

A

• Action: The ball’s spin, flying pins, or one-on-one bowling for money.  
• Address: The stance or position of a bowler before they begin to approach the lane. 
• Adjustment: When a player changes their in-game tactics, including a realignment or equipment change. This can also include changes in a player’s mental or physical game.
• Anchor: The last player to bowl in a team - typically the best player on the team.
• Approach: How you get to the foul line to throw your ball.
• Area: When a player is able to hit multiple boards and still hit the pocket.
• Arm Swing: The motion of a player’s arm from the first movement through the release.
• Arrows: The triangles on the bowling lane that assist bowlers in aiming their shot. 
• Axis: When the ball is released, the axis is the beginning of the ball’s rotation.
• Axis Tilt: This refers to the direction your ball’s axis faces upon release. The less axis tilt a ball has, the sooner it will move into a roll. A higher axis tilt will often result in more skid.

B

• Baby Split: These splits, 2-7 or 3-10, are considered baby splits because they are seen as easier to pick up over any other type of split.
• Back Ends: This is where a player should see the most hook for their throw.
• Backup Ball: A shot that goes from left to right for a right-handed bowler, or right to left for a left-handed bowler. 
• Bad Rack: Refers to pins not adequately positioned at the end of the lane.
• Bagger: A series of strikes. For example, five strikes in a row can be referred to as a Five Bagger.
• Baker Game or System: A type of team play in which all players contribute to the score in one game. The player designated as #1 bowls frames 1 and 6, the #2 player bowls frames 2 and 7, the #3 player bowls frames 3 and 8, the #4 player bowls frames 4 and 9, and player #5 bowls frames 5 and 10.
• Balance (for a ball): Refers to the weight distribution in a bowling ball.
• Balance during a release: When a player is able to stay on their feet with shifting during the release of the ball, they are considered to have good balance.
• Balance Hole: When a ball is too heavy on one side or the other, a hole can be drilled to bring it back into USBC compliance. 
• Ball Return: This is the machine that brings your ball back up the ramp to you after delivery.
• Ball Spinner: The ball spinner spins a bowling ball for ease of sanding or polishing.
• Ball Track: The area where the ball rolls down the lane. It tends to be where most balls are thrown over several games.
• Beak: The center of the headpin, also known as the nose.
• Bed Posts: Another term for the 7-10 split.
• Belly the Ball: When a player throws their ball standing on the inside while sending the ball to the outside. This is in hopes of seeing it swing back into the pocket to get a strike.
• Big Four: The 4-6-7-10 split.
• Blind Score: When a team member can’t make it to the lane, they are given a place setting score called a blind score, which is their average score. This will be used in calculating the team’s total for each game.
• Blocked Lane: When lane conditions seem to promote high scores due to its finish. 
• Blow: When a player’s ball misses their target and doesn’t get a spare. This does not apply to splits.   
• Board: The wood that makes up the 39 slats on the lanes.
• Body English: Any movements of the body as a means to guide the ball as it moves down the lane.
• Boomer: Used to describe a ball with a big hook or a player that threw a ball with a big hook. 
• Bottom Weight: This refers to the balance of weight distribution in a bowling ball. 
• Bowl Out: When a team player is allowed to finish their game by playing beyond their normal turn due to time limitations. This is more of a courtesy option. Leagues and tournaments typically do not allow this practice.
• Break Point: When the bowling ball breaks from its path to hook towards the pocket, that spot is called the breakpoint.
• Brooklyn: Used to describe when a ball moves from the side it was thrown onto the other side of the lane.
• Bucket: This refers to a diamond-shaped cluster of pins such as the 2-4-5-8.

C

• Carry Down: The amount of oil on a lane that is moved or carried down with each play. It isn’t possible to see any carry down oil with the naked eye, but you can learn to assess it by how your ball moves on the lane.
• Center of Gravity: The heaviest part of a bowling ball. You can see a mark often put on the ball by the manufacturer that indicates the center of the weight mass relative to the top of the ball.
• Channel or Gutter: The small ditches that run alongside a bowling lane.
• Cherry: When a bowler is able to knock down the front pin or pins.
• Chop: This happens when a bowler knocks down a single pin of a spare while leaving the one next to or behind it standing.
• Christmas Tree: This happens when a right-handed player bowls a 3-7-10 split or a left-handed player bowls a 2-7-10 split.
• Clean Sheet or Clean Game: This is a game without any open frames.
• Closed Pocket: When the head pin is a bit off to your bowling hand. This slight discrepancy can lead to a bowl with little predictability.
• Conditioner: Another name for lane oil. 
• Conventional Grip: When ball holes are drilled to where the fingers can be inserted up to their second joint. This type of grip typically isn’t used by pros as it doesn’t lend itself well to hooking. 
• Count: The number of pins knocked down for a spare or strike in the next frame.
• Coverstock: The material that covers the outside of your bowling ball. The three main coverstock types are polyester, urethane, and reactive resin. 

D

• Deadwood: Any pin that went onto the lane or in the gutter after being knocked down.
• Deuce: A game with a score of 200 or more points.
• Dots: These are seven spots on the lane beyond the foul line before the arrows. Dots can help with alignment and targeting. Bowlers also use the dots to guide their approach.
• Double Wood: Refers to two pins where one is directly behind the other.
• Down and In: This is used to describe a line that is straight and just about parallel to the lane's boards.
• Dressing: When oil is applied to the lane, it’s called dressing.
• Drift: When a bowler moves towards the foul line in a different way every time, there’s said to be drift in their approach. 
• Dutch 200: When you score a game of exactly 200 points exclusively with strikes and spares alternating throughout the game, it can be called a Dutch 200.

E

• Early Timing: When you release the ball before your foot stops sliding. This can result in a weak throw with less hook than intended.
• Entry Angle: The direction of a bowling ball at the point that it turns and goes toward the pins.

F

• Fall Back Shot: A shot that begins at the opposite side of the typical pocket before drifting back into the pocket.
• Fast Eight: Used to describe a good pocket hit that only knocks down 8 pins. 
• Fifth Arrow: This is on the 25th board from the right for a right-handed player. 
• Fill Ball: Used to describe a ball thrown after a player gets a spare in the 10th frame.
• Finger Grips: These grips are inserts that can be put into the holes of a bowling ball for better grip and control.
• Finger Weight: When finger holes are drilled into a ball to be closer to the ball's label than the thumbhole.
• Fingertip: A kind of grip where the fingers are only inserted into the ball up to the first joint. This style is known to help get more spin on a ball.
• First Arrow: This is on the fifth board and is the farthest to the right for a bowler.
• Flat: Refers to a ball that ends up having a weak roll and hit.
• Flat Gutter: Flat gutters are on either side of the pin deck. While regular gutters have a well, the flat gutters are flat, just like the name states. The USBC regulates the proper height of these gutters.
• Flush: When a player throws a firm and targeted ball in the pocket.
• Foul Line: This is a horizontal line where the approach and the lane meet. It is usually red, and is placed 60 feet from the headpin. It is represented by an "F" on the score board if crossed.
• Foundation Frame: This refers to the 9th frame.
• Frame: An entire game is divided into ten turns, and each turn is called a frame. Frames 1-9 give bowlers two chances to throw, while the 10th frame allows for up to three.
• Full Roller: This is a ball that rotates or rolls over its full girth. This kind of ball is rarely used because getting good power, and a hook is challenging.

G

• Greek Church: This can refer to any split that leaves three pins on one side of the lane and two on the other.
• Gutter Ball: A ball that rolls into the gutter without striking any pins.

H

• Half Ten: Also known as a weak 10, this refers to a 10-pin that remains standing with the 6-pin down in front of it. 
• Handicap: This provides players with a score adjustment to even the playing field in certain circumstances.
• Heads: The wood at the first section of the lane is referred to as heads. It is often made of sturdy wood to help keep it safe from ball damage.
• Head Pin: The 1-pin, which is closest to the foul line.
• High: Refers to a ball that strikes closer to the center of the headpin. This can often result in a split.
• High Hit: This refers to a ball that has a solid hit toward the front and center of a pin or hits too much of the headpin when trying to score a strike.
• House: The bowling alley. 

I

• Inside Lane: Is the area on a lane where the next rolled is on the inside of the previous through. For right handers, the inside, is going inward to the left based on prior roll. For left handers, the next release is more to the right of the previous throw.

J

• Jersey Side/Hit: If a bowler’s ball hits on the opposite side than it usually does, it can be called a Jersey side or hit.

K

• Kegler: The German word for bowler.
• Kickbacks: These are the side boards that stand around the pins and divide the lanes. Pins often hit these kickbacks and then rebound from a strong hit.
• Kindling Wood: Also called light pins, this is used to describe pins that easily fall during a game.
• Kingpin: As the 5-pin is considered crucial in getting a strike, it is sometimes referred to as the kingpin or king pin.

L

• Lane: The playing surface for a game of bowling.
• League: An official and organized competition that happens weekly during bowling season. 
• Leave: The pins that are still standing after the first throw of a frame is complete.
• Light Hit: Refers to when a ball hits a pin on its side, sending it sideways.
• Lily: A 5-7-10 split, also referred to as a sour apple.
• Loft: How far a ball travels from the release to the second it makes contact with the lane is called loft.
• Long Oil: If a lane is oiled between 35 to 40 feet or more on the lane, it is considered to have long oil. Long oil can make the game more challenging and unpredictable.

M

• Maple: This is the kind of wood many lanes use at the head of the lane. Most lanes use synthetic wood today, but a few alleys still maintain their maple wood.
• Mass Bias: If you have a ball with a noticeable weight dominance in a single direction, it has mass bias.
• Match Play: Instead of playing as a team, this game allows two bowlers to compete against each other. In some cases, the winner will move on to play another match.
• Messenger: This is the name of the pin that is able to roll across the deck and knock down other pins, sometimes resulting in a strike or a successful split. 
• Minus: This is the number of pins that a bowler scores under a 200 average.
• Miss: When a spare is missed. This can also be referred to as a blow, cherry, error, or open.
• Mother-in-Law: Another name for the 7-pin.

N

• Negative Weight: Refers to the weight on a ball that allows it to roll earlier and prolong the hook. Negative weight can be drilled into the ball.
• No-Tap: This is a kind of competition where if a bowler hits nine pins on their first throw, it can be counted as a strike. There can be 8-pin no-tap events, but they are less common.
• Nose Hit: When a bowler hits the pins' dead center.

O

• Open Frame: Any frame without a strike or a spare is called an open frame.
• Open Bowling: Refers to bowling just for fun instead of competition.
• Out of Bounds: When a bowler rolls in an area that can’t move to hit the pocket with its usual break, it can be considered out of bounds.
• Over: This term is used by pro bowlers when their score is over 200. If their score is 234, then it would be 34 over.

P

• Picket Fence: 1-3-4-7 and 1-3-6-10 spares.
• Pin Deck: This is the place where the pins are set.
• Pit: This is the area at the end of the lane behind the pin deck.
• Plus: If a player gets more than 200 points in their game, they can refer to any excess as plus. A player who scored 272 can say that the game is plus 72.
• Pocket: Refers to the ideal place a bowler wants the ball to hit for the best chance of getting a strike. It it between pins 1 and 3 for right handed bowlers and pins 1 and 2 for left handed bowlers. 
• Polyester Bowling Ball: refers to the coverstock of a bowling ball that is designed to roll straight. Like a house ball or a bowling ball used to pick up spares.
• Push Away: Mostly used with the four-step approach, it is the action of pushing the ball forward when beginning the swing.

Q

• Quadrupling: When you achieve 4 spares in a row.

R

• Radius of Gyration or RG: This is how fast a ball starts to rotate when released from a bowler’s hand.
• Range Finders: These are markers on the lane that keep help the bowler recognize the target line. The markers are placed as dots and arrows on the lane.
• Reactive Bowling Ball: refers to the coverstock of a bowling ball that is more porous and has more friction for a greater hooking ball.
• Re-Rack: Refers to resetting the pins when a player sees inaccurate settings.
• Revs/Revolutions: This is the number of times the bowling ball rolls over itself when released, usually through the time until it comes into contact with the pins.
• Runway: The area where bowlers stand and approach the foul line to deliver the ball.

S

• Schleifer: This is a German word that means to cut down or slice. It usually refers to a strike where the pins appear to fall down one by one.
• Scratch: The true score from a game without any adjustments or handicaps.
• Six Pack: When a bowler gets six strikes in a row.
• Skid: When the ball slides on the lane after it first comes into contact with the surface is known as a skid. The skid should happen before the ball hooks.
• Sleeper: This refers to a rear pin that is hard to see because of a pin set in front of it.
• Span: The span of a bowling ball is the distance between the thumb and finger holes. 
• Spare: When pins remain after the first roll, during the 2nd roll, a player knocks down any pins left standing. A spare is represented by "/" on the scoreboard.
• Sparrow: 3 spares in a row is called a sparrow.
• Split: A split is where a bowler knocks down the pins on their first throw in a way that makes it difficult for them to knock them all down on their second throw. This can be any combination of remaining pins spaced in a manner in which most bowlers can’t hit them all on their second throw. 
• Spot Bowling: A bowling method where bowlers use the spots or arrows on the lane as their targets. They focus on these instead of the pins during their throw.

T

• Tap: When what appears to have been a great hit to get a strike leaves one pin left standing.
• Turkey: This is when a player gets three consecutive strikes.
• Three Hundred Game (300): When a bowler plays a perfect game.
• Throwing Rocks: Getting strike after strike when bowling with a fastball.
• Top Weight: The drilling of a hole to make the ball top-heavy.

U

• Urethane Bowling Ball: Refers to the coverstock of bowling balls that doesn't absorb oil as much and offers greater friction between the ball and lane. This friction creates a greater hook than plastic balls.
• USBC: Refers to the United States Bowling Congress, or USBC, which originated in 2005 as the national governing body of bowling. They’re also recognized by the US Olympic Committee. This organization maintains and provides the rules and regulations of bowling.

V

• Vacancy: This is a placeholder score used when a team doesn’t have the same number of players as the other teams. The vacancy score is decided by the league.
• Vent Hole: An extra hole that is supposed to eliminate any suction in the thumb hole.

W

• Washout: Refers to a split that leaves the headpin still standing. While this may be referred to as a split, the headpin makes it a washout.
• Weight Block: This is the block in the center of a bowling ball. It gives it extra weight and can be used to a bowler's advantage with the right weight distribution.

X

• X: An "X" in bowling means strike.

Bowling Phrases

Bowlers are fun people and have some neat phrases that they throw about from time to time. Here is a short list of some of the most common ones:

• 180: This is called when a rack of pins fails to be set. Again, an alley employee should be alerted to rectify the situation.
• Deadwood: This is when a pin gets past the rake and remains on the lane. This is a problem for the control desk at your bowling alley. The alley employees can rectify that situation.
• It's Time to Ball Down: You might hear this phrase when a bowler’s ball hooks too much.
• The Gray Boards Don’t Hook: The gray boards refer to the gutter. It makes sense that if your ball goes to the gray boards, it most definitely won’t be able to hook!
• I Need to Change Soles: Despite the potential to be a pun, there’s no divine intervention needed if you hear this phrase. It simply means that the bowler needs to change the soles of their shoes. You can switch out the soles in specific bowling shoes, which is what the player means with this phrase. 

Bowling Games

• 5-Pin Bowling: Just like ten pin bowling, in 5-pin bowling, a strike involves knocking down all of the pins with one throw, and a spare involves clearing all the pins after 2 throws. The pins are arranged in a V-shape, each with its own value. 
• 9-Pin Bowling: A game where 9 pins are lined up in a diamond shape. The center pin is known as the “9” pin and is typically red in color. The goal is to get a "Ringer".
• Bocce: This game aims to throw your bocce ball (bigger) closest to the jack or Pallino (which is smaller).
• Lawn Bowling: A bowling game played outdoors on a flat, green lawn. The sport involves rolling biased (not symmetrical) balls (or bowls) toward a target (also called a jack). The objective of the game is to get your bowls as close to the jack as possible.
• Tra or Feather Bowling: This is a variation of lawn bowling from western Belgium/Netherland and Scandinavian communities. The twist is Tra Bowls or Feather bowling has a rolling path that is concaved or curved and hollow in the center.
• Ten Pin Bowling: This is a targeting sport where ten pins in the shape of a triangle are placed at the end of a 60-foot lane of wood or synthetic wood. The goal is to roll a bowling ball to knock down as many of the pins as possible.

Related Articles

• Beginner Bowling
• Rules of Bowling
• Tips on Bowling

This glossary of words and phrases can be helpful when you’re unfamiliar with bowling terms. We hope that you found this article to be helpful, and we wish you the best as you learn more and more about the sport. 

Are you looking to crack the code to endless strikes? We'll start by letting you know that there's no such code. However, there are ways to increase your chances of consistently throwing strikes.

And that's what we'll focus on in this article. By the end, you'll know the basics of how to bowl a strike, and you'll even snag some tips for improving your game. Let's get right into it!

How To Get a Strike in Bowling Every Time

Theoretically, you can get a strike every time - for a while, at least. But given the fact that we're human and there are so many variables in bowling, your chances of getting a strike every time are slim to none. Instead of striving for that, focus on increasing your chances of getting a strike in general.

And with some practice and guidance, you can absolutely do that.

The Basics of Hitting a Strike

Now, let's move into some basic tips for getting a strike. You'll want to memorize and practice the steps below if you want any chance of throwing more strikes. The tips are in no particular order.

Find Your Starting Position

Every bowler has a different starting position, but there are some generalities that you can follow. For starters, you'll want to stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. From there, take a step forward with the correct foot - your right foot if you're right-handed and your left foot if you're left-handed.

Most bowlers take 4 steps to get to the foul line and throw the ball – it works for most. But you should do what feels most comfortable and be consistent.

Choose the Right Bowling Ball

Your choice of bowling ball matters more than you think.

First, you'll want to make sure that the ball is not too heavy - you should be able to lift it with one hand without straining, and the ball roll should be smooth. Just remember that if it's too light, however, you won't be able to generate enough power for your shots. A good weight guideline is choosing a ball about 10% of your body weight.

Second, you'll want to pick a ball with the right grip. If the holes in the ball are too big, your fingers will slip out during your shot. And if they're too small, you won't be able to get them in at all!

And there’s always a chance that your fingers will get stuck during your release. Experiment until you find a ball that fits comfortably in your hand.

Lastly, consider the ball's coverstock. This is the material that the ball is covered in, and it affects things like the ball's hook potential and its reaction on the lane. There are three main types of coverstocks: polyester, urethane, and reactive resin.

If you're a beginner, we recommend sticking with a polyester coverstock. It's ideal for straight bowlers. But, if you really want to up your chances of getting strikes, move on to a urethane ball after getting the basics of bowling with a polyester ball down. Urethane offers a little more hook potential, which can help you get into the perfect spot to clear all the pins.

Most bowling alleys don't have urethane (or reactive bowling balls) available for rent, so you'll have to purchase one if you want to use it.

Pay Attention to Your Approach and Swing

Your approach plays a big part in your ball delivery - and, ultimately, your score. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you take your steps:

• As you take your steps, walk in a straight line and keep your eyes on your target arrow.
• Keep your arm close to your body as you swing it back.
• Bend your knees slightly as you swing the ball back. As you reach the forward part of your swing, extend your arm, keeping your arm straight, and push off with your back foot.
• Release the ball when it reaches shoulder level.
• Try not to turn your body as you release the ball - keep your shoulders squared to the lane.
• Once you find your stride, practice it until it becomes second nature. That way, you won't have to think about it when trying to focus on other things.

Wear Well-Fitting Bowling Shoes (And Socks!)

This one might seem obvious, but it's essential nonetheless. You need to be comfy if you want to bowl your best, and that starts with your shoes. Your bowling shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly.

They shouldn't slip off when you walk, but they also shouldn't pinch your feet. If you're renting shoes from the bowling alley, make sure to try on a few different sizes before settling on a pair. And don't forget about your socks! Wearing the wrong socks (or not wearing any at all) can lead to blisters, which aren't fun.

We recommend wearing socks that come up to at least your ankles - they'll help keep your feet nice and snug in your shoes.

Aim at the Pocket

The pocket is the sweet spot for strikes. It is the space between pins 1 (head pin) and 3 for right-handed bowlers and between pins 1 (head pin) and 2 for left-handed bowlers. If you can get your ball into this space, you'll activate a chain reaction that takes out all the pins.

Of course, it's not always easy to hit the pocket (especially at the right angle). But getting your ball into that space can make a big difference.

Know How to Hook the Ball

Straight bowling is fine for beginners, but if you're looking to up your game, you'll need to learn how to hook the ball. Hitting the pins straight on doesn't always result in a strike - sometimes, your ball will bounce off the pins and leave a few standing. But if you can get your ball to hook into the pins at an angle, you'll have a much better chance of taking them all down.

If you have a ball with mid to high hooking potential (like a urethane or reactive resin ball), you've won half the battle. Then all that's left to do is learn how to hook it. It's all in the flick of the wrist.

Right as you're releasing the ball, you'll want to put some spin on it by releasing your thumb from the thumb hole and then releasing your other two fingers. As you release your last two fingers, you'll sweep the ball from the side to the top in the direction you want the ball to go.

Put Some Umph Behind Your Shots

The last thing you need to do is put some power behind your throw. If you can get the ball down the lane with a little extra oomph, you'll have a better chance of taking out all the pins. Just make sure you don't put too much force behind it - if you throw the ball too hard, you might lose accuracy.

The key is to find a balance between power and accuracy. If you can do that, you'll be well on your way to bowling a strike every time. If you find that your ball is too heavy, it's okay to choose a lighter ball.

Related Articles

• Four Step Approach
• Pins and Pockets
• Where to Stand When Bowling

There you have it - a few tips to help you bowl a strike more often. Know that there's no magic formula for success, but if you follow these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to developing some serious skills. We hope this article has been helpful, and we wish you the best of luck on your bowling journey.

Don't ever lose sight of the fact that bowling is supposed to be fun - so enjoy yourself along the way!

Arthritis is a natural progression of the aging body, and the symptoms can be exceptionally bothersome if you love to bowl. In general, pain can limit the body’s movement and make any game less enjoyable.

If you suffer from pain due to arthritis while bowling, you might be able to get some relief with bowling gloves!

And we’ll tell you all you need to know about them in this article! 

Bowling Gloves for Arthritis, Do They Help?

If you have arthritis in your hands and/or wrist, you can certainly experience relief with bowling gloves. Not only should you feel better while bowling, but afterward. These gloves can also help prevent injury or additional damage to your joints. 

Arthritis Gloves Benefits

When you experience pain, especially while bowling, it’s typically your body’s way of letting you know that something needs attention. It could be something as simple as your form needing a tune-up, using equipment that’s not right for you, or it could be signaling a problem with your arthritis.

In general, bowling gloves are a great tool to give a bowler more comfort. And your experience level shouldn’t affect whether or not bowling gloves can help you. Both beginners and bonafide pros can make use of this great tool to minimize pain while maybe even improving their game.

Looking for the Best Bowling Gloves

You’re not alone in your search for the right bowling gloves to help with your arthritis. When you’re starting to shop around, it’s a good idea to talk to your primary care physician or whoever assists you in managing your arthritis to ensure the glove you choose gives you proper wrist support.

If you’re seeing a physical therapist to help manage pain and mobility, they're a great resource when selecting your new gloves. Ask them their opinion on bowling gloves and if they can offer any recommendations that would be good for your situation.

Talking to other bowlers is another great resource for anything bowling-related, from form to equipment. The more seasoned the bowler, the more likely they are to know something about this topic. 

How to Choose Bowling Gloves

Arthritis can be incredibly painful, especially without the right kind of support in the affected area. So, when considering getting your own set of blowing gloves, it helps a ton to know what to look for. Here are a few things for you to consider because not all gloves function the same:

1. Make sure that the gloves are made of a material that is comfortable for you. Gloves are often made of nylon or leather. Nylon is lightweight and doesn’t provide as much support as other options. Leather can make your hands warm and sweaty, but us practically guaranteed with the type of arthritis relief you're looking for. 
2. Find gloves that will last for a while. If you’re buying pair after pair of cheap gloves, it’s just not cost-effective. If you find that the pair you decided on begins to fall apart within weeks or even months, it’s time to invest in a more durable pair.
3. Try on any gloves you’re interested in to make sure they move with you. Each pair of gloves will fit a bit differently. You want to ensure that your gloves don’t restrain your regular bowling movements.
4. Know the type of support you're looking for in a pair of gloves. If you’re looking for arthritis support, look for gloves made specifically for that purpose. 
5. Be prepared to invest in gloves with additional features to get even more support than a typical pair, depending on your arthritis needs. These gloves can be a bit bulkier than your average ones but are great if you need that extra support.
6. Explore different styles of bowling gloves. There are full-hand gloves, single-finger gloves, two-finger gloves, or simple finger socks. These offer varying degrees of support and flexibility, making it easier for you to find something that meets your exact needs.

Bowling glove selection can be overwhelming simply because there are so many options. However, when it comes to managing your arthritis, you’ll want to ensure you wear gloves that meet your needs and give the absolute best support. Later on, you’ll be glad you put in the effort to find the right ones. 

What’s the Difference Between Compression and Arthritis Gloves?

As you shop around for your gloves, you’re likely to see that there are gloves that say they are basic arthritis gloves while others claim to be compression gloves. Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably, but they can be different depending on their support and design.

Let’s take a look at the two different gloves:

Arthritis Gloves

Arthritis gloves won’t treat your arthritis symptoms, but they can provide your hand wrist support to alleviate the pain of the condition. Some gloves will have additional support on the backhand portion to ease tension. 

Arthritis gloves can also provide extra support at the wrist if you are dealing with both arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. These gloves are usually able to wrap around the wrist, providing stability and sturdiness when you need them.

Compression Gloves

Compression gloves are intended to provide relief from arthritis pain in a comfortable way. You can find compression gloves that provide thermal heat, which are copper infused and support your hand from wrist to fingertips. The compression feature of these gloves means that they may improve circulation in your hands. This is accomplished through gentle pressure and heat. 

The copper-infused gloves are quite controversial as there are differing opinions on whether the copper provides any real benefits. Studies haven’t been able to confirm or debunk the potential benefits of wearing copper-infused items. You’ll also see polarized opinions about them in user reviews. 

Thermal heat compression gloves use the heat your body already produces to warm your hands. Insulation retains the heat in your hands to soothe inflammation and pain in your hand joints.

Both types of gloves have the potential to help alleviate any discomfort you may experience while bowling from arthritic pain. If you’re able, try out both and see which is the best bowling glove for your game.

Bowling Gloves for Arthritis and Carpal Tunnel

It’s not uncommon for bowlers with arthritis in their hands to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome as well. You’ll see many products available to help with one or the other, but it can be more difficult to find gloves that help with both when bowling. Part of the reason it can be tough to find gloves that address both problems is those kinds of gloves tend to be bulky.

Bowling gloves must allow bowlers to move freely and maintain control of their ball. When gloves are too bulky, they don’t allow that to happen. There are gloves available that claim to alleviate both carpal tunnel and arthritis, but they may not be specifically designed for bowling.

Therefore, you may have to buy bowling gloves for your arthritis relief and carpal tunnel syndrome separately.

Bowling Gloves for Arthritis on Amazon

No matter where you shop for your bowling gloves, you’ll want to choose a retailer that allows customers to leave reviews on their purchases. Many times, these reviews provide the kind of information a potential buyer needs to make their decision regarding whether the gloves are suitable for them. Unless you’re heading to a local pro shop, you'll also want to check out the return policy of your preferred retailer.

Make sure the store has a generous return policy and will allow you to try on the gloves and return them if necessary. If you can’t return your items after you’ve tried them on, it doesn’t do you any good since you can’t find out if they will work for you.

There are so many options to choose from, including the Brunswick Deluxe Bowling Glove and the Brunswick Shot Repeater. To help, we've gone through and narrowed down options for you. Here are some of the top-rated gloves to help with arthritis while bowling:

• Storm Xtra Grip Plus Glove Black- Right Hand

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Storm Xtra Grip Plus Glove: This glove has a reinforced backhand, supporting every hand movement you make during your game. It also wraps around the wrist to keep it as stable as possible. While you will enjoy the warmth of this glove, it also boasts good ventilation. If your hand tends to sweat during your game, this glove will keep it as dry as possible. 

This glove has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5, and it's priced in the mid $20 range. Needless to say, it’s a great deal. 

• RiptGear Compression Gloves for Women and Men for Arthritis

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  . RiptGear Compression Gloves for Arthritis: While not specially designed for bowling, these gloves are designed to support the hand and the wrist. One of the most attractive features for many reviewers is that these gloves pull on and don’t have any fastening around the hands or wrists. What’s more, is that they’re non-bulky – so you shouldn’t have any trouble using them while bowling. The ease of gripping also has reviewers raving (4.5 out of 5 stars). These gloves come in a pair and have a price point in the mid $20 range, making them an excellent value for the money. 
• Monster Grip Bowling Glove (Large, Right)

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Monster Grip Bowling Glove: Bowlers with arthritis need a comfortable grip – it helps to give them more control overall. This glove fits the bill, and it shows with rave reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars. These gloves have worked for thousands of other bowlers and costs only $13.99. We say it’s worth trying out!
• Professional Anti-Skid Bowling Gloves Comfortable Bowling Accessories

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Professional Anti-Skid Bowling Gloves: These gloves were designed specifically for bowlers to give them support and a good grip in every game. They’re made with breathable lycra. The gloves are also reported to be durable, according to lots of happy reviewers. The glove is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. 
• Storm Xtra Grip Glove Right Hand Black Small

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Michelin Storm Xtra Grip Glove: The combination of both grip and support of the tendons makes this glove one to consider for your game. It’s made to keep your hand and wrist comfortable while providing superior control and support. The current price is around $26, which is a bit on the higher end. But considering it’s rated 5 out of 5 stars, it’ll likely be worth it. 
• Kool Kontrol Bowling Wrist Positioner

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  . Kool Kontrol Bowling Wrist Positioner: Alignment is everything when it comes to your game and your hand! This glove helps to support your wrist with removable supports to give you the freedom to personalize the support you need. Three velcro adhesives keep your wrist and hand supported no matter what. It’s rated a 4.4 out of 5.  
• Master Industries Wrist Master II Bowling Gloves

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Master Industries Wrist Master II Bowling Gloves: This is a pretty solid glove and claims to keep everything from your hand to your wrist supported. Reviewers confirm this claim (4.5 out of 5-star rating), making it a contender for one of the top bowling gloves for people who have arthritis. This is currently priced at about $27.
• Strikeforce Pro Rev 1 Bowling Support

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Strikeforce Pro Rev 1 Bowling Support: This is a lightweight, extended-finger support glove that allows you to feel and bowl your best! This glove has adjustment options that will enable you to secure your hand in the proper position for you. Better positioning should decrease any pain or discomfort. Coming in at a $65 price point, it’s a bit of an investment but worth it if it gives you a more comfortable overall game. This glove is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars. 
• FREETOO Copper Arthritis Gloves for Carpal Tunnel

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Freetoo Copper Arthritis Gloves: While not specially made for bowling, these gloves could be considered a supplemental tool to use when resting your bowling hand. These gloves are made using copper, elastic, and silicone to support, compress, and alleviate aches and pains in your joints.

They aren’t supportive enough to wear when bowling, so use them in addition to your favorite supports. These come in at around $16 and are rated 4.4 out of 5 stars. 

• Strikeforce Pro Rev 2 Bowling Support

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  . KR Strikeforce Pro Rev 2 Bowling Support: This bowling support has helped bowlers to improve their game and enjoy the sport in less pain. The support is made of a durable, lightweight material that shouldn’t require repeated adjusting. It’s a bit pricey at about $65, but the vast majority of reviewers agree that it’s 100% worth it. This item is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars. 
• Lane Masters Cupping Band Glove with 2 Slings

  

  Check Price

  Bowling for Beginners may receive compensation if you make a purchase using this link, at no additional cost to you.
  Lane Masters Cupping Band Glove with 2 Slings: This peculiar-looking glove is made to support your fingers and wrist while giving you excellent positioning. If you struggle with decreased strength in your fingers from arthritis, this glove was created to help you keep your throw strong. The glove is on the high-end at around $76.00. But if it works for you, it is an investment well worth making.

Of course, the final decision is up to you. But, again, read any fine print about returns before hitting the submit button on your order.

Are Arthritis Gloves Worth It?

If you get any kind of relief from pain and support while bowling from your arthritis gloves, then it is absolutely worth trying them out! The key is to be patient and try different kinds. It could take several tries to find the right one for you. 

How Do You Bowl With Arthritis?

Bowling is overall a great, low-impact sport that provides physical and social wellness to players. So, it can be scary when you face an arthritis diagnosis – you might think your bowling days are numbered. But an arthritis diagnosis is far from the end of the line for any bowler. You can still bowl with arthritis, and staying active can even help you maintain your overall health.

1. Make sure you take the time to warm up your joints, including your hands, each time you bowl. Warming them up can help alleviate some stiffness and pain and prevent further injuries.
2. Make sure your pain hasn’t been causing your form to slip. It’s a good idea to be mindful of your position from start to finish, paying attention to moments that cause pain or discomfort. If you can’t figure it out, ask a fellow bowler for their observations and input.
3. Your bowling ball might not be the right size for you anymore. A different ball weight and hole adjustment may be necessary to keep you more comfortable on the lanes.
4. Don’t wait to add supportive gear to your bowling equipment stash, as your pain can get worse the longer you put things off. It’s always better to be proactive with your health, and that applies even if your reason is to be able to bowl more comfortably. 

Arthritis doesn’t mean the end of playing your favorite game. Instead, a few adjustments can have you throwing some of your best games yet.

Related Articles

• Can You Bowl With Arthritis
• Best Bowling Wrist Supports
• Do Professional Bowlers Use Wrist Support

So, there you have it – everything you need to know about bowling gloves for arthritis. The time is now to support your achy joints and experience pain relief – you don’t have to bowl in pain. We hope that one of the gloves or supports we mentioned in this article is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

And we wish you the best of luck with your health! Here’s to pain-free bowling! 

Even if you’ve never bowled, you likely have a basic understanding of how the game works. You roll the ball and knock down as many pins as you can. Your score is based on how many pins you knocked down.

But after jumping into the sport, you'll soon realize that there's more to the game than you initially thought. In this article, we'll fill you in on the rules of bowling so you can hit the lanes with confidence.

Bowling Rules

Ten Pin Bowling Rules: The Basics

Ten-pin is the U.S.'s most common form of bowling. So, if you live in the U.S., this is the type of bowling you’ll play in most cases. The basic rules of play include the following:

1. The ultimate goal is to knock down all ten pins on your first turn. 
2. During each frame, each player gets two attempts to knock down all ten pins. Turns are called “frames,” and each player plays ten frames in a game. 
3. Knocking down all the pins on your first throw is called a strike.
4. If you miss at least one pin on the first throw and then knock down any remaining pins on your second throw, it's called a spare. 
5. If a player bowls a strike in the tenth frame, they get two more throws within that frame. If they get a spare in the final frame, the player gets to throw one more ball.
6. Open frames are simply frames that left at least one pin standing.
   The Rules of Ten Pin (10 Pin) Bowling - EXPLAINED!
7. Scoring is based on the number of pins knocked down. Except, when you get a spare, you get 10 plus the number of pins you knock down during your next throw. If you get a strike, you get 10 plus the number of pins you knock down with your next two throws. 
8. Game totals are typically an average of three games played. To determine this, you take the three-game scores, add them together, and divide that number by three.
9. Honor the foul line. If a player steps over the foul line or crosses it in any way, those pins will not count toward that player's score. 
10. Unless otherwise authorized, bumpers should not be used during a game.
11. For players with physical disabilities, ramp bowing may be allowed.

USBC Ten-Pin Bowling Rules: Technical 

The United States Bowling Congress, or USBC, originated in 2005 as the national governing body of bowling. They’re also recognized by the US Olympic Committee. This organization maintains and provides the rules and regulations of bowling.

While the USBC is much more than just a rule maker, it is considered the ultimate resource for the sport. As of 2022, the USBC rescinded any rule changes that had been made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This included no longer letting players use isopropyl alcohol to clean their balls once a competition has begun.

Lane spacing requirements are also no longer in place. In addition to keeping the world of bowling up to date based on worldly events and needs, the USBC sets general playing rules. These rules apply mainly in tournaments, but most of them are enforced at your local bowling alley.

Here they are: 

• Delivering the Ball: The ball has been “delivered” when it leaves the bowler's hand and passes the foul line onto the lane. All deliveries must be made by the bowler with no artificial or mechanical assistance. (Some amendments allow for exceptions based on amputation or other similar situations.)
• Fouls: You have committed a foul when any part of your body touches or crosses the foul line. If you commit a foul, your turn will count, but you will not get credit for fallen pins.
• Legal Pinfall: When scoring a game, any points that count for the bowler will include:

1. Pins that fall from the impact of the ball or another pin that is hit by a falling pin.
2. A pin that is knocked down by a rebounding pin that ricocheted off of another surface. 
3. Pins that are moved off the lane or downed by a pin that rebounds from the sweep bar. 
4. If a pin is propped up by any part of the structure surrounding the fallen pins.

• Illegal Pinfall: Illegal pinfall dictates that your throw will count, but you will not get points. Here are some instances of illegal pinfall:

1. If you throw a ball and it jumps the lane or enters the gutter before reaching the pins.
2. When a pin touches any part of the pin setter. 
3. Anytime a foul is committed by the player.
4. When your ball hits a human pinsetter. Most bowling alleys have mechanical pinsetters, so you probably won't have this issue.
5. When a pin falls during pin removal. 
6. When a ball deflects off of the rear cushion, any resulting pins being knocked down will not count.
7. When a pin falls because of a human pinsetter. 
8. If the bowler throws while there is still dead wood anywhere on or around the lane. Players are responsible for determining whether there are any remaining pins on the lane before they throw.  
9. The ball comes into contact with dead wood before it leaves the lane.
10. Your throw is made while dead wood is present or in the gutter, and more pins fall down due to subsequent contact.

• Pins: Each player is responsible for ensuring the pin setup is correct. They should insist that it be corrected before their turn. If it's discovered that any pins were set improperly but is all there, the delivery and pinfall will count.
• Dead Ball: If a dead ball is called, the delivery won’t count, and any downed pins must be reset. A dead ball can be called if it is noticed that one or more of the pins were missing after a delivery was made, if a human pinsetter interferes or removes any pins before or during a roll, or if a player bowls down the wrong lane or out of turn, and more.

These are just the basic rules to give you an idea of how bowling is both played and regulated, especially during official games and tournaments. Here is the USBC website for a complete list of all their rules.

Different Bowling Rules for Bowling Variations

Now that you understand some of the most important bowling rules, it's essential to learn how each type of bowling game is played. There are five main types of bowling, including ten-pin bowling. Here are the other variations to know about: nine-pin bowling, five-pin bowling, Duckpin bowling, and Candlepin bowling.

Nine-Pin Bowling

For nine-pin bowling, the pins are lined up in a diamond shape. The center pin is known as the “9” pin and is typically red in color. The pins are further apart than they are in ten-pin bowling, and the nine pin is a tad longer than the other pins. 

Nine-pin bowlers play in teams of 6. Players are not stuck in a fixed rotation. The team captain or leader can select which bowler will start and who will follow. 

Teams bowl the first three frames on one lane and then switch with the other team for the remaining three. Each bowler is given two balls to roll. If a “ringer” (also known as a strike in 10-pin bowling) is scored by knocking down all of the pins, the score will be 9.

However, if all the pins are knocked down and the 9-pin is still left standing, the score will be calculated as 12. This allows players to score a max of 24 points per frame. If a player does not throw a ringer on the first ball, he can use the second ball to try to get a spare.

When a player cannot score, the captain can call in another player to try on the next throw. No score is awarded to a team until they knock all of the pins down or only the red pin remains standing. The exception to this rule is when the last team member rolls their last ball - in this case, each fallen pin will count as a point.

All frames are added together to calculate the team’s score. This is simply called a team score. No individual player scores are counted in this type of game, leading to a collaborative event that relies more heavily on teamwork than some other bowling games.

Five-Pin Bowling

Five-pin bowling is a variation of bowling that’s most popular in Canada. As the name of the game suggests, it uses 5 pins instead of 10. Five-pin bowling teams get three chances to bowl per frame and have their own unique point system.

Each game has ten frames, just like 10-pin bowling. The game has three shots per frame. An open frame refers to when all three bowler’s shots couldn’t knock down all of the pins. 

Just like 10-pin bowling, in 5-pin bowling, a strike involves knocking down all of the pins with one throw, and a spare involves clearing all the pins after 2 throws. The pins are arranged in a V-shape, and each one has its own value. For example, if you hit the headpin at the top of the “V,” you will earn 5 points.

The two pins on either side of the center pin are worth three points each. The last two pins are worth two points each. The total points a player can earn in a game will depend on the pins you knock down and whether you get a spare or strikes in your frames.

If you can get a strike on your first frame, you will earn the most points for that shot which is 15. If you can score a strike on the next two shots, you can earn up to 45 points for that frame. For the times you don’t get a strike but can get a spare, you’ll get the 15 points from the spare as well as any extra pins you knocked down with your next throw.

In addition, any other frames without a strike or a spare will be awarded the points associated with the downed pins. One of the main differences between five-pin bowling and ten-pin bowling is the size of the ball. Five-pin bowling uses a ball that’s nearly the size of a softball to ensure that the game is accessible to people of all ages and sizes. 

Duckpin Bowling

Duckpin bowling is considered to be another variation of 10-pin bowling despite some significant differences. Just like in five-pin bowling, the Duckpin ball is about the size of a softball and does not have any finger or balance holes. The pins are shorter and lighter than their 10-pin counterparts, yet they are arranged in the same triangular formation. 

The rules of Duckpin bowling allow for a 10-frame game with three rolls per frame. The goal is to knock down as many pins as possible during each frame.  If a player can knock down all the pins with their first throw, it’s considered a strike.

They get the points for that roll (one point per pin) plus the number of pins they knock down with the next two balls. When a player can knock down ten pins within two throws, that’s called a spare. The player gets the full ten points in addition to the number of pins they can knock down on the next throw.

If all the pins are taken down on the third throw, the player gets 20 points for their turn. The final score comprises all the points accumulated over ten frames. The maximum score a person can get is 300 points, which is only achievable if a player can get 12 consecutive strikes.

At this time, there’s no evidence that anyone has been able to accomplish this feat.

Candlepin Bowling

In this bowling game, every player rolls a small ball to knock down ten pins set up in the same formation as in a 10-pin bowling game. Every player is allowed three rolls, each turn in ten frames. Any pins that are knocked down will remain in place until the end.

If a player can knock all ten pins down using their first roll, they get the full 10 points for a strike and continue to play for the next two rolls. This is after the pins are cleared and set up again for a new roll. There is the potential to score three strikes within a single frame.

If it takes three rolls to knock down all the pins, the total of that frame will be 10. This is often referred to as a ten-box in the New England area. Scoring is similar to that of Duckpin bowling and is considered to be official.

All scores must be correctly reported and submitted frame by frame. You can get fouls while playing this game. A foul occurs when a ball first rolls into the gutter before it hits dead wood or jumps back out of the gutter, hitting extra pins.

You can also get a foul if your ball is “lobbed” and doesn’t touch the approach or within three meters of the lob line. There are alley-specific rules about the rotation of play, such as if more than one person is bowling on the same lane at the same time. So if you’re getting involved in a Candlepin bowling game, make sure to ask about how that will work during your games.

Bowling Alley Rules

No matter which bowling variation you play, you have some rules to learn. It’s okay if you don’t memorize every single rule before you show up to play a game. Bowlers tend to be friendly yet competitive people.

Most bowlers will take the time to help you become acclimated to the sport. And now that you know about the different kinds of bowling games and rules, there’s another significant set of rules. Your game will be subject to the bowling alley rules whenever you bowl.

Many times an alley will post rules for all visitors to read and observe. Some of these regulations may address safety, while other rules require good etiquette while playing. No matter the alley’s rules, it would be best if you took the time to understand them.

Bowling alley rules may differ from location to location, but they all serve an essential purpose.

Here are some rules that come up a lot in bowling: 

1. When another player is bowling, remain seated. 
2. Don’t make loud, sudden noises to break another bowler’s concentration. 
3. Where bowling shoes when on the lane approach. 
4. Don’t bring food and drinks into the bowling area. 
5. Wear a shirt and pants. 

*This is not an exhaustive list of rules. 

Conclusion

Related Articles

• Bowling Etiquette
• Point System in Bowling
• Bowling Pin Weight

When a person first sees the number of games and rules required to enjoy bowling, it can be off-putting. The good news is that many rules are the same across several bowling variations. Once you learn some basic rules, you’ll have a good foundation for whichever variation you play. 

The rules also evoke a sense of awe regarding how involved and precise the sport is and the passion people have for it. So learn the rules as best as possible and ask for help or clarification if needed.

We hope you found the information you were looking for. Good luck! 

For anyone who can’t get enough of bowling, bowling video games could be the next best thing. With so many bowling games available, it's difficult to decide which one to try first. And that’s where we can help.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best bowling video games money can buy. To also help you, we give you an overall review of the game and the platforms.

Let’s get right into it! 

Best Bowling Video Games

Brunswick Pro Bowling

Brunswick Pro bowling is one of the top bowling video games available today. It’s a remarkably accurate bowling simulation game that uses the Bullet physics engine to mimic a bowling ball’s real-life behavior. It gives you that authentic bowling alley experience you crave. 

What’s more is you get to use special bowling balls, each of which has its own superpowers. One example is the Splitter ball - a magical ball that splits in half to pick up the most difficult splits.

Another thing that pulls people in is just how real the bowling environment looks on Brunswick Pro bowling. The shadows, lighting, and more make you feel like you’re in a real bowling alley. 

What Customers Think

Customers absolutely love Brunswick Pro bowling; the game has earned an average online rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars with nearly 100 ratings. 67% of customers rated the game a full 5 out of 5 stars. The happiest customers state that it’s a super fun game that has an authentic ball and pin action.

Whether you’re a beginner or an avid bowler, you will have a ball with Brunswick Pro Bowling. 

Game Specifications

• Available Game Modes: Single and Multi-player
• Available Platforms: Xbox One and 360, PlayStation 2, 3, 4 and Portable, iOS, Android, Wii, and Wii U

Wii Sports

If you’re looking to play a bowling game that has a large following, opt for Wii Sports. Wii Sports is not exclusively a bowling game; it’s got several sports you can dabble in, including tennis, baseball, and more. But bowling is the Wii sports game that keeps people talking.

What differentiates Wii bowling from other bowling games is that you use the Wiimote to bowl, whereas, with other games, you press buttons and use an arrow pad. The Wiimote allows you to get truly immersed in the sport from the comfort of your own home. 

The game is truly responsive - if you fail to follow through with your shot, your ball will probably go into the gutter. And if you twist your wrist as you release the ball, your ball will hook. That accuracy keeps people playing.

It also helps that the game’s setting is at an everyday bowling alley, so you actually feel like you’re rolling a few at your local bowling center when you’re playing Wii Bowling. 

What Customers Think 

As alluded to earlier, customers love Wii bowling for several reasons, but mainly for its super responsive, immersive play. And the evidence is in the game’s online reviews.

With over 600 ratings, Wii Sports has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating.

81% of reviewers rated the game a full 5 out of 5 stars. The happiest players state that it’s their absolute favorite Wii game ever. Most negative reviews say that the game did not work. 

Game Specifications

• Available Game Modes: Single and Multi-player
• Available Platform(s):  Nintendo Wii

Premium Bowling

Premium Bowling is a PC VR game that earned its spot on our list because of its unique gameplay. Once you turn the game on and put on your headset, you are thrust into an unbelievably lifelike bowling alley with all the sights and sounds that you’d expect in real life. It’s more like a simulation than a typical video game.

Don’t expect any special bells and whistles - this isn’t that kind of game. It’s for people who want that 100% real bowling experience at home. And that’s what it delivers. 

What you do get is the ability to create your own avatar and to choose and personalize your own bowling ball based on your bowling style and personal preferences. And if VR is not your thing, you can turn that off at any time. 

What Customers Think

Premium Bowling for PC is not available on Amazon, but it has reviews elsewhere. On Steam, with over 300 reviews, the game has earned a rating of 9 out of 10. Players of all experience levels have a ball with Premium Bowling.

One specific reviewer had over 18 years of experience in the sport and rated Premium Bowling as one of the best bowling games because it gave them a super realistic experience.

The way the ball rolled off of the hand and went down the lane was, according to the reviewer, the closest you can get to real bowling. 

Game Specifications

• Available Game Modes: Single, Multiplayer, and Co-op
• Available Platform(s): Steam, Oculus Stor for Rift, Oculus Quest, and various WMR headsets

Tekken 7: Ultimate Tekken Bowl

Not everyone is looking for a super realistic bowling experience, and if that’s you, Tekken 7: Ultimate Tekken Bowl will be right up your alley - pun intended.

Like many other bowling games, you begin by selecting your throw’s spin, power, and direction. Then, your character will throw the ball. Be careful not to throw the ball willy-nilly, or you won’t hit your target. 

There’s a really playful quality to Ultimate Tekken Bowl that keeps people coming back repeatedly. Falling characters and over-the-top reactions are just a couple of things to expect. If that sounds like your speed, this is the bowling game for you. 

What Customers Think

Many of those who have tried this game say that the physics of the bowling experience is spot-on. On whattoplay.com, the game is rated at 9.3 out of 10 with 1.47k reviews. But the reviews vary based on the website.

What we gather is that only a very specific type of player will enjoy all the antics and silliness that come with this bowling game. 

Game Specifications

• Available Game Modes: Single-player and Multi-player
• Available Platform(s): Arcade, PC, PlayStation 4, Windows, and XboxOne

PBA Pro Bowling 2021 

If you’re looking for a tournament bowling experience, PBA Pro Bowling 2021 will deliver. What sets PBA Pro Bowling 2021 apart from other bowling games is attention to detail. The game includes realistic environments based on actual PBA-sanctioned bowling centers.

You’ll also find authentic broadcast presentations, including multiple camera angles and commentators. But that’s not all; it allows you to play against professional PBA bowling legends and even choose a PBA bowling pattern to give your games an edge!

Once the game starts, you’ll select your angle, stance, and throw power before you roll. And after you knock the pins down, you can view instant replays and check your ball speed.

What Customers Think

Steam reviewers rate PBA Pro Bowling a 7 out of 10. One reviewer says that this game is as close to real bowling as you can get without actually going to a bowling alley. Another reviewer called it a “must-have” for any bowling fan.

Those who don’t love the game state that it’s a bit too difficult for the average gamer. The learning curve can be a problem if you’re bowling for fun. But if you’re serious about the sport, this game will give you the challenge you’re looking for.

Game Specifications

• Available Game Modes: Single-player and Multi-player
• Available Platform(s): Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Steam

Related Articles

• Bowling and Drinking
• Round 1 Bowling & Amusement

Whether you’re looking for a realistic or comical bowling experience, there’s a game on this list for you. Even if you're looking for free online bowling games, you have options Bowling 3D Extreme, PBA Bowling Challenge, and My Bowling 3D.

If you’re into a more traditional bowling game, PBA Pro Bowling 2021 is an excellent choice. No matter which game or platform you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

Each of these games has diehard fans that play them consistently. We hope that you found the information you were looking for.

Now it’s time to grab some friends, break out the snacks, and have a ball!

When you first jump into the world of bowling, chances are you quickly realize that there’s a lot to learn. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To get started off right, we suggest you go to your local bowling alley, grab a house ball, and work on your 4-step approach.

It’ll help you with your form and enhance the accuracy of your throws. Once you get this down, you’ll be on the path to bowling success.

What Is the 4-Step Approach Bowling?

The 4-step approach is a simple yet effective way to walk with your bowling ball to the foul line and release the bowling ball onto the lane to knock down pins. It will help you learn about the basic steps to a bowling approach and take you through the process of identifying your steps and having an effective swing motion.

The approach doesn’t have to be followed in any specific order. You start where you feel you need to and then go from there!

Things to Consider Before You Start

To better understand where you should start, begin by figuring out what your distance from the foul line should be before approaching the lane. Start by turning away from the pins and placing your heels on the foul line.

Walking naturally, take about four steps and then turn to face the pins.

This gives you a general idea of where your starting position should be. Remember that this isn’t an exact science and can be adjusted as needed for your throwing style.

Next, figure out where your starting point should be. On the opposite side that you hold your ball, place that foot straight in line with the middle dot on the lane.

If you are a right-handed bowler, this is will be your left foot. If you are a left-handed bowler, this will be your right foot. Again, adjust this as necessary – you should do what’s best for you. 

Make sure you take your first step with the same foot as the hand you usually hold your ball in. You'll step with your left foot if you are left-handed and you hold the ball on that side. And vice versa, you’ll step with your right foot if you bowl right-handed. 

How to Do the 4-Step Approach

With the previous tips in mind, you’re ready to learn the four-step approach. You should be standing at your starting point and holding your ball close to you with your bowling arm bent upward.

Let’s get right into it! 

First Step

The Pushaway: Here’s where you’ll take your first step. When you take your step, stretch your bowling arm out while holding the ball out towards the lane. Make sure your elbow isn’t still bent – it should be straight.

Your throw won't be accurate if you’re wobbly or leaning to a side.

Second Step

Downswing: As you take your second step, swing the ball down toward your leg. This is where you see other bowlers start to get the momentum that they’ll need to be able to release the ball down the lane. 

Third Step

Backswing: When taking your third step, the ball should reach behind your back as far as you can swing it to get the ball ready for a strong release. The further back your arm swing, the more power you can put behind your throw. 

Fourth Step

Slide and Release: On your fourth and final step, you'll bring the ball forward from the backswing to the front, letting your foot slide before releasing the ball. Be sure not to go over the foul line, or your throw won’t count. 

Who Should Use the 4-Step Approach in Bowling?

The 4-step approach is excellent for any beginner who’s just getting acclimated to the sport. Those who have bowled in the past and are looking to get back into it can also benefit from the 4-step approach.

Sometimes even a seasoned bowler can go back to the 4-step basics.

Refreshing and perfecting the bowling ball release can make a big difference in a competitive game. The beauty of the 4-step approach is that it breaks down the most basic principles of bowling and how to approach the lane and increase the chances of a good throw. 

Tips to Master the 4-Step Approach

Want to master the 4-step approach in no time? In addition to the 4-step approach above, steps, use the following tips to help you get it right! 

• Practice your steps even after you think you’ve perfected your form and throw. Don't just go through the motions when practicing the steps. Be mindful of each step and purposefully move your body, noting any weak or unrefined areas. 
• Enlist the help of a friend or fellow bowling enthusiast. Watch each other and provide helpful pointers on each other's form, swing, and release. Take each comment offered from the other and use it as an opportunity to further refine your approach. 
• Once you get things down, volunteer to teach the approach to new or younger bowlers. You can keep your skills current and refined while noting how the steps work differently for each student. 

Implementing one or all of these tips into your bowling routine can quickly help you take your game to a new level.

Other Bowling Tips to Improve Your Game

Mastering the 4-step approach is not the only thing you can do to improve your game. Here are some tips that can help you grow and enjoy bowling more than ever:

1. Get your hands on the right ball for you. If you don’t have the right equipment, your scoring potential will be limited. And your ball is the most important piece of equipment you bring to a bowling game. Whether you use a house ball or purchase your own, you should choose a ball that feels comfortable in your hand and doesn’t put any strain on your back or joints. Shoot for a ball that weighs 10% of your body weight or less. Keep in mind that heavier balls are more likely to barrel through the pins, resulting in a strike. 
2. Practice as much as possible. The more you do, the better you’ll perform when it counts. It can be challenging for people to find time to bowl outside of their regular routine, but it’s crucial if you want to improve your game.  
3. Get in good with a bowling enthusiast. A fellow bowler who can help target areas that need improvement would be an ideal bowling partner.
4. Go through the motions of your approach and swing in your garage, bedroom, or even in your backyard. If you can do it in front of a mirror, that’s even better. If you’re struggling to stay on track, pull out your bowling ball and use it while you move. You’ll be surprised at how much your body and mind can achieve with some repetitive practice.
5. Listen to your ball when you “throw” it. While the word “throwing” is commonly used to refer to sending the ball down the lane, it’s better to roll your ball. An excellent way to tell if you’re throwing your ball instead of rolling it is to listen for a loud “thunk” when the ball hits the lane. Rolling the ball allows for better control and the chance to knock down more pins. 

The 4-step approach might seem basic, but it allows any new or returning bowler to understand how the body moves while preparing to release a bowling ball.

Each step will make you more aware of how you bowl, what works, and what doesn’t. You’ll be able to learn how to make your throws smooth, controlled, and effortless once you’ve found your own rhythm.

Related Articles

• Bowling Approaches
• Bowling Strategy
• What Does F Mean

We hope that you found this article helpful, and we wish you the best of luck as you improve your game! 

Bowling is known to be a low-impact sport that virtually everyone can enjoy. Even the elderly can enjoy it without too big of a risk of injury. For that reason, when people develop carpal tunnel, they don't usually consider bowling a possible cause.

But could your bowling fun be to blame? That's what we'll cover in this article. By the end, you'll know for sure whether bowling can cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Can Bowling Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Despite being a low-impact sport, bowling can still cause carpal tunnel syndrome. This may be against popular belief, but it's true. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hands and wrist tendons.

It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed. The condition is often caused by repetitive motions, such as typing or using a mouse. However, it can also be caused by activities that put pressure on the wrist, such as bowling.

Hurling a heavy bowling ball down the lane repeatedly can put considerable pressure on the median nerve, which can certainly cause some damage.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

Many people self-diagnose themselves with carpal tunnel syndrome, though getting a professional evaluation from a doctor is ideal. Still, the sooner you realize that you may have the condition, the quicker you can begin treating it at home. Carpal tunnel syndrome has very particular symptoms.

These include tingling, numbness, and weakness in the thumb and first three fingers. You may find yourself shaking your hand in an effort to stop the tingling. The pain may also radiate up the arm and into the shoulder.

In severe cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to decreased grip strength and even loss of feeling in the affected hand. Those with severe carpal tunnel syndrome may drop things and struggle to do everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding a pen.

Which Bowlers Are at Risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Since median nerve pressure is the leading cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, bowlers who are at the highest risk are those who grip the bowling ball tightly and throw it with a lot of force.

Your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome also increases the heavier your bowling ball is, how often you hook your ball, and how often you bowl in general.

So, most avid pro bowlers are at risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you rarely go bowling, your risk is much lower. But avoiding bowling, or curbing your bowling habit, isn't a real solution.

There are many other things that cause carpal tunnel syndrome, like heavy typing or computer work, trauma (from falls, car accidents, sleeping on your wrist, prior wrist injuries, etc.), diabetes, or fluid retention.

If you love to bowl, you can continue to do so - but there are some steps that you should take if you want to minimize your risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

How Bowlers Can Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you haven't developed carpal tunnel but are concerned that you might, there are several things you can do to prevent it from happening.

• Don't bowl cold: It's always important to stretch and warm up before any physical activity, bowling included. Here's a video showing how professional bowler Chris Barnes stretches out his wrists and body prior to a bowling match.
• Choose the right ball weight: A bowling ball that's too heavy for you can put unnecessary strain on your wrists. Bowling balls come in several weights - from 6lbs to 16lbs - choose a ball that feels comfortable in your hand and doesn't cause you to strain while throwing it. Go to your local bowling alley and try out multiple balls to see which feels best for you.
• Don't grip the ball too tightly: It may feel like gripping the ball tighter will give you more power or control, but it can lead to strain and injury. Practice loosening your grip on the ball while still maintaining control over how you throw it.
• Take breaks and listen to your body: Don't bowl for hours on end - take breaks between games and give your wrists a rest, especially if you tend to have wrist pain during other activities. If you start to feel any numbness or tingling in your hands, stop and give them a break.
• Wear wrist support: Wrist supports can help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms and prevent them from occurring in the first place. They come in different styles - some are straps that go over the wrist, while others are rigid splints that offer more support.

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are several treatment options available for carpal tunnel syndrome. These include splinting, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and surgery. In most cases, nonsurgical treatments will be tried before surgery is considered. 

If you have mild symptoms, your doctor may recommend wearing wrist support, like a wrist brace, at night, to keep your wrist from bending while you sleep. This can help relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce inflammation. 

For more moderate cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation around the median nerve. These injections can provide temporary relief, but carpal tunnel syndrome often returns once the effects of the injection wear off.

Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the wrist and hand.

You could experience significant improvement with physical therapy, but it may take several weeks or months before you see results. Carpal tunnel surgery is usually only recommended for severe cases that haven't responded to other treatments.

During surgery, the carpal tunnel ligament is cut to decrease median nerve pressure. Recovery from surgery typically takes several weeks, but the procedure usually provides significant relief from symptoms. Some patients may experience complications from surgery, such as infection or nerve damage, but this is rare.

When to See a Doctor for Wrist or Hand Pain

Any time you experience persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in your hand or wrist, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation. They can determine if carpal tunnel syndrome or another condition is causing your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.

Remember, early intervention for carpal tunnel syndrome can often prevent it from worsening and ease your symptoms. Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable - seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Other Bowling-Related Injuries to Look Out For

In addition to carpal tunnel syndrome, bowling can lead to other bowling injuries, such as tendonitis and elbow pain. Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, which can occur with repetitive motions such as throwing a bowling ball.

Wrist tendonitis and shoulder tendonitis are common for bowlers.

Common bowling injuries include elbow pain, known as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, which can also occur with repetitive motions. Bowler's thumb is another injury that happens when the bowling ball has a lot of spin or is thrown too hard when the thumb hole is ill-fitting.

As with carpal tunnel, these issues can often be prevented or treated by warming up before bowling, using the proper equipment, and listening to your body's warning signs.

Don’t Be Afraid to Have Fun on the Lanes

Though carpal tunnel syndrome is a serious condition, it doesn't mean you have to give up bowling or be preoccupied with the possibility of developing the condition.

By practicing proper form, using the right equipment, and listening to your body, you can still enjoy bowling. There's always a risk of injury involved in any physical activity, but with caution, you can minimize that risk and have fun on the lanes.

Related Articles

• Why Is My Thumb Numb
• Bowling Wrist Supports
• Bowling Gloves

In conclusion, while carpal tunnel syndrome can occur in bowlers, there are steps you can take to prevent it from happening. We hope this article has given you the information you were looking for and helps you play the game more safely and without fear of injury.

Happy bowling!

Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.

Whether you're a beginner, avid, or professional bowler, there's one main thing you should know about bowling balls - their hooking potential.

Hooking potential refers to a ball's ability to curve or hook after you roll it down the lane. If you are thinking about getting your own ball and don't know where to start, our bowling ball hook potential chart will be incredibly helpful.

In addition to the chart, we'll discuss the factors that contribute to a ball's hooking potential and share any other information you'll need to select the best bowling ball for your bowling style.

Bowling Ball Hook Potential Chart

Here, we have ranked the three main bowling ball types from low to high hook potential. Keep in mind that this chart is not comprehensive and that some bowling balls may have qualities that fall outside of the listed categories.

Keep reading, and we'll jump into each bowling ball type and why it behaves the way it does.

Ball Type	Hook Potential	Bowler Level
Plastic (Polyester)	Low	Beginner (or for spares)
Urethane	Medium	Avid/Pro
Reactive Resin	High	Pro

Plastic (Polyester): Low Hook Potential

The bowling ball with the lowest hook potential is the plastic (or polyester) type. It's the most commonly used bowling ball type at bowling alleys.

Plastic bowling balls have low hooking potential because they have a smooth, slick, nonporous surface. This lack of friction prevents the ball from grabbing onto the lane, resulting in little, if any, hooking potential.

Plastic balls are ideal for beginners, as they are easy to control and can be used in various lane conditions. They also lend themselves well to those who prefer to bowl straight rather than to hook.

Urethane: Medium Hook Potential

One step up on the hooking spectrum is the urethane bowling ball. These balls have a slightly rougher and more textured surface, allowing them to grab onto the lane more than plastic balls. But at the same time, they are nowhere near as reactive as resin balls.

Urethane bowling balls are great for intermediate bowlers who want to experiment with throwing hooks but still maintain control over their shots. Professionals also use urethane balls when the situation calls for it.

Reactive Resin: High Hook Potential

At the top of the hooking potential spectrum is the reactive resin bowling ball. These balls have a porous, gritty surface that allows for maximum friction with the lane, resulting in a strong hooking potential. For this reason, they are the preferred choice for advanced and professional bowlers.

Reactive resin bowling balls can be tricky to control, so they may not be the best choice for beginners. However, they are highly versatile and can be used in various lane conditions.

Other Factors that Influence Hook

You may not have been aware, but in addition to the bowling ball's surface, there are a few other factors that contribute to hook potential.

• The bowling ball's weight. Heavier bowling balls tend to hook more than lighter ones. This is one of the biggest reasons why pros generally opt for heavier balls - they enable them to achieve showy hooks and more easily get into the pocket.
• What type of core the bowling ball has: The weight block, or core of a bowling ball, also impacts its hooking potential. Symmetrical cores have less hook potential than asymmetrical cores.
• How much speed you impart on the ball: The faster the ball goes, the less hook potential it will have. And vice versa, the slower it goes, the more hook you can expect. The more time a ball is on the lane, the greater of a chance it has to grip the lane and hook.
• Your release: How you release the ball can also contribute to hook potential. Though some balls will hook without you putting any spin on them, others will not spin at all without you doing so. So, the way you position and twist your fingers and wrist as you deliver the ball are significant contributors to your ball's hook and its direction.
• Lane conditions: The oil patterns on the lane can also affect hooking potential. Dry lanes, or those with little oil, will have less hooking potential, while heavily oiled lanes will result in more.

Should You Hook Your Ball as a Beginner?

Hooking the ball shouldn't be the biggest priority for beginners. It's important to first focus on developing a consistent and accurate throw to knock down pins before attempting hooks. Once you have the basics down, experiment with different types of shots as you please, including hooks.

Remember, even the best bowlers don't always use a hooking shot. Sometimes, a straight shot is the best option for a particular situation (usually spares). So don't feel pressure to hook every time you throw - ultimately, it's about getting the highest score possible by any legal means.

How to Choose the Right Bowling Ball for Your Game

To determine the right bowling ball type for you, consider your skill level, preferred style of play, and what type of lane conditions you usually encounter. Here are some tips to make the choice a bit easier:

• If you're just starting out, go with a plastic ball. It's ideal for beginners because it's the least likely to hook and is more forgiving should you make a mistake. The best part about starting with a plastic ball is that you don't necessarily have to buy one. You can go with one from your local bowling alley to start. But if you fall in love with the ball type, you can get your own for a low price - plastic balls are on the lower end of the bowling ball price range.
• Consider a urethane bowling ball after you've mastered the basics of bowling stances and releases. This will give you more hook potential so you can potentially earn higher scores. With the enhanced hooking potential, you'll be able to easily maneuver the ball into the sweet spot (the pocket) after some practice.
• Go full throttle with a reactive resin ball to take your game to the next level. If you want to get into leagues and experiment with competitive play, chances are you can use a little extra hooking potential at least some of the time. We advise that you focus on easier-to-control bowling balls until you advance to the pro level.
• Choose the right ball weight. Selecting the right ball type is useless if it's not an appropriate weight. Bowling with a ball that's not right for your frame can lead to injury and strain. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ball that's about ten percent of your body weight. Of course, the heaviest bowling balls available are 16 pounds, so if you weigh over 160 pounds, go with a 16-pound bowling ball.
• Know when to ask for help. It's also helpful to consult with a bowling pro or knowledgeable staff at your local alley for personalized recommendations and advice. They will be able to provide insight into what ball will work best for your style and skill level.

Do You Need to Buy a Bowling Ball as a Beginner?

You can certainly buy your own bowling ball as a beginner, but only if you plan on using it often. Since bowling balls are free to use at your local bowling alley, it's not necessary to buy one until you're ready for a more personalized and advanced ball.

Ultimately, though, it's up to you!

Related Articles

• Hook Bowling
• How to Make a Bowling Ball Curve
• Reactive Resin Bowling Ball

We hope that this article was helpful to you, and we wish you the best as you find your ideal bowling ball and delve deeper into the sport.

Are you looking to tear up the lane with some aggressive hook shots? Then you need an aggressive bowling ball that gives you the hook potential to make it happen. A ball with a super reactive design can give you more of the hook potential you need to throw devastating shots on the lanes.

If you need some guidance on which bowling balls have the most hook, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll focus on just that! Let's get right into it.

.

Bowling Balls With the Most Hook- Why Use Them

Bowling straight has its place and can be a lot of fun, but to get strikes consistently, you need to hook the ball to hit the pocket at an angle. While much of your success comes from clean technique, having the right bowling ball can change absolutely everything!

When you use a ball with extreme hook potential, you won't have to do as much work to get the ball to hook, even on oily lanes. And you'll be able to get more strikes as a result.

Is Hooking Always Better?

Hooking is not always better. If you hook the ball at the wrong time, you can easily find yourself in the gutter. You need to focus on using the right bowling ball at the right time.

Sometimes, a spare ball (polyester) with low to no hooking potential is the way to go. And that's when you're picking up a spare or if you tend to bowl straight regularly and haven't yet gotten into ball hooking.

But when you're looking to take down some pins with authority to go for a strike, you need to have aggressive bowling balls in your arsenal with a lot of hook potential. With the right bowling ball, you'll be able to make some devastating shots and improve your bowling average.

Bowling Balls With the Most Hook

With the previous topics out of the way, it's time to get into the good stuff - the bowling balls with the most hook potential. This list will cover some of the best bowling balls on the market that will help you unleash your inner beast with some aggressive hooking shots. So, without further ado, here is our list of the most aggressive bowling balls.

Let's get into it!

Ebonite Aero 

The Ebonite Aero by Brunswick is among the hardest hooking bowling balls you can get your hands on. It's a super reactive ball that's said to be one of the most aggressive in Ebonite's line. The ball is designed to give you that extra hook in heavy oil lane conditions.

If you're looking for a ball that will really make a difference in your game, then this is a great bowling ball for hook. It's got the coveted Aero core, which features "Drill Anywhere" DOT technology. This allows you to drill your ball in any position without fear of losing hook potential.

But that's not all; It's also got DynamiCore technology for some explosive strikes. It’s also got a GSV-X coverstock, which is incredibly reactive. It's designed to be the most aggressive bowling ball that will give you that extra traction you need for your ball to move freely.

You'll be able to easily make those big hook shots with this ball in your arsenal.

Ebonite Aero Customer Reviews

Since this ball hasn't been around for too long, there aren't many customer reviews out there yet. But the few that are available are all very positive. So, if you're looking for a new ball that will make a significant difference in your game, the Ebonite Aero is definitely worth checking out. You can get yours home for anywhere between $150 and $200.

MICHELIN Storm Omega Crux

Storm has been in the business of making great bowling balls for a long time now, and the Crux is proof that they know what they're doing. Taking our second spot is the MICHELIN Storm Omega Crux. This ball is designed for bowlers who need a little extra help when it comes to executing strong hooks.

It's got an asymmetrical core, which gives your ball a crazy strong reaction on the backend of the lane. The ball was designed to provide more hook potential and help you bag more strikes. The ball has a 3000-grit Abralon finish, which gives you a good lane grip without sacrificing too much speed.

And due to its superior construction, the Omega Crux’s durability cannot be matched. If you're looking for a ball that can handle anything the lane throws at it, then the MICHELIN Storm Omega Crux is the best bowling ball to try.

MICHELIN Storm Omega Crux Customer Reviews

The customer reviews for the MICHELIN Storm Omega Crux are overwhelmingly positive. People love this ball for its ability to handle heavy oil conditions and its durability. Some even say this is the ball that helps them strike the most.

Brunswick DV8 Quantum Bias Ball

Our next pick is none other than the Brunswick DV8 Quantum Bias Ball. According to the Brunswick website, the ball was released several years ago and is now retired. But if you can get your hands on it, you'll be no less than thrilled, and for multiple reasons.

The ball has a Mushroom High RG Asymmetric core, which provides a powerful reaction even on heavy oil. It also has a unique Quantum coverstock for explosive hits and better longevity.

The ball also has 3.5 times more coverstock than your average bowling ball. That means it will withstand a ton of punishment and provide plenty of hitting power. If you're looking for a ball that can really make a difference in your game, then you need the Brunswick DV8 Quantum Bias Ball.

The ball comes in weights ranging from 14 to 16 pounds, but you may not be able to find all the weights still in stock since the ball itself can be hard to find. You'll also have to pay a bit more for this ball than a new one; they typically go for around $400 on the used market.

Brunswick DV8 Quantum Bias Ball Customer Reviews

The customer reviews for the Brunswick DV8 Quantum Bias Ball are excellent. Many people say that this is the best ball they've ever used and that it's made racking up strikes a whole lot easier. They also say that the hook on this ball is insane.

Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball

When it comes to hooking potential, this ball is among the best of the best. The Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball delivers on all fronts for those who let their hooks do the talking. It has a low RG core, which assists in spin production and makes the ball more reactive. And that means more action on the backend of the lane for you.

The coverstock on this ball is also top-notch. It's the NeX Solid Reactive coverstock, designed for heavy oil use. When you roll this ball down the lane, you can expect a monstrous hook that will pick up nearly anything in its path.

The Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball comes in weights ranging from 12 to 16 pounds, so chances are you can find the perfect weight for your game.

Storm Proton Physix Customer Reviews

Among the most highly-rated balls on the list, the Storm Proton Physix has some of the best customer reviews around. People love how this ball moves, saying it's got a crazy hook but that it's still controllable. This is hard to find in reactive balls.

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

If you're looking for an affordable hook ball that still performs well, then you need the Pyramid Path Rising. This ball is more affordable than most balls on this list, but don't let that fool you; it's still a top performer. The ball has a symmetric core, making it more predictable and easier to control.

The coverstock is the Path Pearl Reactive, which is an ideal choice for hooking on medium oil. The ball also has a 1500-grit Abralon/Factory Polish finish, which increases its traction, gives it a nice shine, and makes it super durable.

The Pyramid Path Rising comes in weights from 8 to 16 pounds, and given that bowling balls are only available in 6 to 16-pound weights, that's a pretty wide range. Everyone from beginners to experienced bowlers can find the perfect weight for their game with this ball.

This ball is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile ball that can be used in a variety of situations.

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball Customer Reviews

People absolutely love the Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball. Customers say this ball is an excellent value for the price and that it hooks well with little effort from the bowler.

Motiv Jackal Legacy Bowling Ball

The Motiv Jackal Legacy Bowling Ball has unreal hook potential. And the secret sauce is in its Coercion MXC Solid Reactive coverstock. It ensures that the ball will hook like crazy in just about any lane condition. It also has a 2000-grit LSS finish for max backend motion.

If you're looking for a monster that can handle the heaviest of oil conditions, the Motiv Jackal Legacy will not disappoint. You can get yours in 14 and 15-pound weights.

Motiv Jackal Legacy Bowling Ball Customer Reviews

The Motiv Jackal Legacy Bowling Ball has some of the best customer reviews you’ll see. Customers say this ball is an absolute beast and perfect for those looking for a ton of hook potential. They also say it's easy to control, despite being so powerful. If you're looking for a top-of-the-line ball, the Motiv Jackal Legacy is a great choice.

Radical Results Plus Bowling Ball 

Extreme hook potential and reliable backend motion thrust the Radical Results Plus into the spotlight, separating it from the rest of the balls on the market. It's perfect for use on heavy oil lanes, and it's sure to give you the results you're looking for.

The Radical Results Plus is an asymmetrical ball, so it's more unpredictable than a symmetrical ball. That means it will hook more, but it can also be harder to control if you don't have your bearings in the sport. But if you're an experienced bowler looking for a challenge, this ball is a great choice.

The ball does well on various lane conditions and provides a ton of power.

Radical Results Plus Bowling Ball Customer Reviews

The Radical Results Plus Bowling Ball has some great customer reviews, along with its impressive performance. The fact that no customers who have purchased the ball from most large retailers have given it anything less than a 5-star rating is pretty impressive.

The ball has earned 4.9 out of 5 stars on several other review sites. Customers state that this ball is an absolute powerhouse and is ideal for anyone looking for a lot of hook potential. You can't go wrong with this one!

Hammer Black Widow Legend

The Hammer Black Widow is a stunner - let's just get that out of the way. It's a sleek, black ball with a gorgeous red spiderweb design on the cover.

But it's not just a pretty face - this ball is packing some serious hooking power.

The ball has a Gas Mask core, which lends it an enviable hook that is sure to result in some showy strikes. It also has an NBT Hybrid coverstock, giving the ball enough traction to handle even the heaviest oil conditions.

The Black Widow Legend is an incredibly versatile ball, as it can be used in various lane conditions. But its bread and butter is an oily lane; that’s where it shines.

Hammer Black Widow Legend Customer Reviews

The Hammer Black Widow Legend has some great customer reviews, which echo its one-of-a-kind performance on the lanes. Reviewers state that when they use this ball, the pins go flying. Some even reported that their average scores improved after adding this ball to their rotation.

Need we say more?

Should Beginners Use Bowling Balls With a Lot of Hook?

Now that we've looked at some of the best bowling balls on the market, it's time to answer the question: should beginners use balls with a lot of hook potential? Our answer is a resounding no. While it's true that balls with a lot of hook potential can be entertaining to use, they're also much harder to control.

If you're just starting out, we recommend using a ball with less hook potential. That way, you can get a feel for the game and learn to control your shots before moving on to a more difficult ball.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. If you're feeling adventurous, go ahead and give one or more of these balls a try. But if you're just starting, we recommend playing it safe with a less challenging ball - like a plastic or urethane ball.

They will be much easier to control, and you'll be able to focus on developing your skills without having to worry so much about the ball going haywire. 

Do Bowling Balls With High Hook Potential Cost More?

Yes, bowling balls with high hook potential typically cost more than other bowling ball types. That's because they're meticulously designed to perform at the highest level on difficult lane conditions, and that takes time and money on the part of the manufacturer. Those costs are then passed on to the customer. 

But that doesn't mean you should shy away from them if you're looking for a challenge. If you're willing to spend the extra money, high-hook balls can be a blast to use and often take players' scoring averages up a few notches. In other words, they're worth it!

Related Articles

• How to Spin a Bowling Ball
• How to Bowl Better
• Bowling Steps for Beginners

So, there you have it–our list of the best bowling balls for max hook potential. If you've been around the block a few times and are ready to take your game to the next level with a more challenging ball, any of these would be a fantastic choice.

They have the most iconic reactive coverstocks, technologically advanced cores, and state-of-the-art manufacturing–everything you need to get your shots hooking the way you want. We hope you've found this list helpful, and we wish you the best of luck in your bowling endeavors!

Have you ever given any thought to how bowling pins are set up? If not, it’s worth considering.  You’d be surprised at the nuances of how bowling pins are arranged– it’s some fascinating stuff!

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or new to the game, knowing how bowling pins are set up is pivotal to how the game of bowling is played. 

Bowling Pin Setup

Bowling pins may be arranged in one of several formations, depending on the type of bowling you’re doing. In the following sections, we’ll examine four types of bowling and how the pins are set up for each bowling game. 

10-Pin Bowling Pin Setup

In a traditional 10-pin bowling game, the bowling pins are set up at the end of the 60-foot lane in the pin deck. The pins arrangement is a triangular formation and is placed in four rows and are numbered. The number of each pin is based on the

The first row, which is the tip of the triangle and closest to the bowler, has one pin. This pin is called the head pin. From left to right, the second row is made up of pins called, 2 and 3. The third row, from left to right, consists of pins 4, 5, and 6. Lastly, pins 7, 8, 9, and 10 create the fourth row. Each pin is set precisely one foot away from any surrounding pins. 

Candlepin Bowling Pin Setup

Candlepin bowling has the exact 10-pin bowling equilateral triangle formation. However, there are bowling game differences in Candlepin bowling; the place where the pins are set is the pin plate, ball size, and pin weight. Therefore, the bowler has to utilize a different strategy to score. 

5-Pin Bowling Pin Setup

5-pin bowling pins are placed in a “V” shape. One single pin is placed closest to the bowler, and the other pins are placed two in a row, spaced out to make the “V” shape behind the singular pin. The rubber around the bottom section helps it roll when struck. 5-pin bowling, your score is based on how many pins are knocked down, but which pins actually fall, as each pin has a different value.

The center head pin is worth 5 points, the pins on both sides are worth 3 points, and the pins at the ends are worth 2 points. In each frame, the five pins are for a total of 15 points.

The entire width and depth of five-pin pin decks are 41″ (104.1 cm) and 36.25″ respectively (92.1 cm). Eighteen inches separate adjacent Five-Pin pins (45.7 cm).

9-Pin Bowling Pin Setup

9-pin bowling has an entirely different pin formation, as pins are set up in the shape of a diamond. At the end of a 64 ft (19.5m) lane, the first pin is situated in the center and is the pin closest to the bowler. The one pin is followed by two pins, then three pins, two more pins, and then the final pin, a single pin on the back row. The setup should look like a perfect square turned to its side. 

Bowling alleys have machines that automatically set up and remove the pins knocked after every frame. These machines are vitally important, as the way the pins are arranged is essential to the progression of any bowling game. If one pin is off, it can significantly affect a given bowler’s scoring potential. If there is no machine that automatically set the pins in 9-pin like there are in 10-pin, pin-setters are used to set the pins and return the balls.

The pins are spaced wider apart than in a 10-pin connector. The width of 9-pins and 10-pins is the same, while the length of 9-pins is somewhat longer. The 9-pin rack allows for more splits than the 10-pin rack, which, like the 10-pin, isn’t suitable for scoring and is also more expensive.

What Is Bowling Pin Formation Called?

When you hear someone talk about the “pin rack,” they are referring to the set of 10-pins. The “head” pin is the one that is closest to the bowler, and the “pin deck” refers to the portion of the lane where the pins sit. 

How Are Bowling Pins Numbered?

Candlepin and tenpin bowling are arranged in a triangle, with the single pin or “headpin” being the one closest to the bowler. This pin is pin number 1.

In the row behind the headpin are pins number 2 and 3, with 2 being on the left side from the bowler's perspective.

The next row has numbers 4, 5, and 6, with the number 4 being on the left side, 5 in the center and referred to as the "sleeper" pin, and 6 on the right side.

The last and farthest row from the bowler has pins numbered 7, 8, 9, and 10. The number 7 is on the left side of the bowler's perspective of the pins, with 8, 9, and 10 following 7 from left to right. 

In 5-pin bowling, the center pin, the pin closest to the bowler, is called the Headpin and is worth 5 points. The two adjacent pins to the center's immediate left and right, are called Left 3 and Right 3 and are worth three points each. Finally, the farthest pins from the Headpin are called the Corner Right or Corner Left pin and are worth two points.

9 pin bowling is in a league of its own. Historically, deemed an illegal sport, the diamond shape formation is still a favorite in Texas. In the innermost center of the quadrilateral, sits a red pin called, the King pin.

What Boards Do Bowling Pins Sit On?

The pins for a 10-pin and Candlepin bowling game sit at the end of the lane in the pin deck. Remember, both bowling games share similar pin setup formations. Each setup has four rows. Below are the following boards where each pin sits for left and right-handed bowlers.

The counting of the boards from right to left increases from 1-40, ending with 40 on the left. Contrary, from left to right, the boards start with 1 and end with 40 at the right.

• First Row: The first row is the headpin, or pin number 1. For left-handed and right-handed bowlers, the pin sits on the “20 board." This is considered the middle of the lane.

• Second Row: This row, from left to right, consists of the number 2 and number 3 pins. The number 2 pin, for left-handed bowlers, the two-pin sits on board 15, and for right-handed bowlers, on board 25.

• Third Row: Consisting of pins numbered 4, 5, and 6, this board is situated on the following boards for left-handers 10, 20, and 30, respectively. Conversely, the board positions for right-handed bowlers are 30, 20, and 10.

• Fourth Row: The last row house the 7, 8, 9, and 10 pin from left to right. Properly aligned, the pins sit on their respective boards, 5, 10, 25, and 35 for lefties. Opposite, from right to left, 35, 25, 15, and 5.

Which Bowling Pins to Target for a Strike?

If you want to get a strike, you need to know which bowling pins to target. And that will depend on which hand you usually bowl with. Here are some tips on the pins you should aim for based on your dominant bowling hand.

For Beginners – Straight Bowlers

If you’re a straight bowler (meaning you don’t curve or hook your ball at all), aim for the middle pin – pin number 1. Hitting that pin straight on will result in a strike some of the time. Other times, it could result in a split or a spare situation, where you’ll need to knock down additional pins to try to pick up the spare. 

For Left-Handed Bowlers Who Hook

Aim for the left-handed “strike pocket,” which is the area between the 1 and 2 pins. More often than not, hitting that spot just right will result in a strike. In addition, be aware of your stance.

Depending on your specific bowling style, you may need to shift to the right or left to position yourself to get that ball into pocket. You may need to experiment to determine your ideal stance and position. For lefties, see if placing your right foot on the center dot before your release will help.

Standing in the right spot as you approach the lane and roll can help a ton. 

For Right-Handed Bowlers Who Hook

Try to hit the strike pocket. For right-handed bowlers, that’s between pins 1 and 3. Your probability of getting a strike is high if you get into pocket. 

Also, use the arrows on the lane to guide you. For a right-handed bowler, try aiming for the second arrow from the right. When you find the arrow that directs you to the strike pocket every time, you’ll want to use it whenever you can.

Another way to work on your positioning to hit that strike pocket is to find the dots that run across the lane before the foul line. For a right-handed bowler, try placing your left foot on the middle dot. 

Consistency in Bowling Pin Formation 

The reason the pin formation doesn’t change in 10-pin bowling is that it’s regulated by the USBC (United States Bowling Congress). This is the organization that governs the sport of bowling in the US. So, if you’re bowling in a USBC-sanctioned event or league, you’ll be using the standard 10-pin formation.

The USBC not only dictates pin formation but also other aspects of the game, such as lane dimensions and required equipment. This ensures that there is consistency and fair play in organized bowling events.

A consistent pin formation allows bowlers to keep track of their successes and failures. With all of the bowling equipment (except the ball) standardized, the main variables that change are your ball and how you deliver it. If the pin formation changed every time, it’d be like starting from square one every time you bowl. 

The evenly spaced pins keep bowlers practicing and refining their skills to chase that elusive strike pocket. 

Quick Tips to Improve Your Bowling Skills 

Whether you're a seasoned bowler or just getting started, there are always ways to improve your skills. Here are a few quick tips to help you bowl your best game:

1. Make sure the bowling alley has properly maintained the lanes. This means that the lane surface should be clean and free of dirt and other debris. If the lanes are in poor condition, it can affect your ability to get a good roll on the ball.

2. Choose the right ball weight for you. A heavier ball will be more challenging to control but can also result in more power and strike potential. A lighter ball will be easier to handle but may not have as much power behind it. Experiment with different bowling ball weights to find what works best for you.

3. Ensure that you're wearing the right gear. You'll need a pair of bowling shoes to get the proper traction on the lane.

Related Articles

• Weight of Bowling Pin
• How Many Pins in Bowling
• Tips for Beginning Bowlers

 It’s easy to take the formation of bowling pins for granted since bowling pins are set up, removed, and reset automatically with each frame and game. But they have an enormous impact on the game. We hope that this article has answered all of your questions!  

The Golden Age of bowling, which ended in the 70s, saw some of the greatest bowlers in history take to the lanes. That's why 70s bowling greats remain at the top of my mind, even today!

If you want to learn about the most famous bowlers from the decade, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the biggest professional bowling names in the 70s bowling for men and women.

Famous Bowlers From the ’70s

There’s no shortage of names to include on a famous bowlers list from the 1970s, especially since many bowlers have careers that span multiple decades. Here is a list of names fellow bowlers are likely to recognize and new bowlers will be introduced to.

The Most Famous Male Bowlers From the ’70s

Earl Anthony

Anthony is often credited with bolstering the popularity of televised bowling, as he was a popular tournament finalist at the time. He started bowling after he sustained an ankle injury while pursuing a possible professional baseball career. That career change may not have been ideal for him at the time, but it worked out for him in the long run.

Anthony stuck with his new bowling career, joined the PBA tour, and won his first PBA in 1970. He continued to enjoy success throughout the 1970s, winning six PBA National Championships, and continuing to bowl, even after a heart attack slowed him down in 1978.

This famous bowler went on to dominate the game all the way until he won his final title in 1997. He was also the first player to collect more than $1 million in prize money.

Unfortunately, Anthony passed away in 2001. Yet his name will live on as one of the best players in the 1970s and beyond.

Pete Weber

Nothing makes a name more recognizable than some good entertainment, a healthy ego, and a sprinkle of controversy. Luckily for his fans, Pete Weber provides all three.

He joined the PBA (Professional Bowlers Association) in 1979, was the PBA Rookie of 1980. While he didn’t win his first title until 1982, he was widely known for his cocky attitude every time he appeared at a bowling alley.

Weber had a good reason to be a bit cocky with his game, though.

He was the youngest person to win 10 major championships by the age of 24 and followed that up by winning the Tournament of Champions, followed by the US Open, and then the PBA National Championship within a couple of years.

Weber’s career spanned more than 40 years when he retired in 2021. His name will continue to be recognized in the bowling community for years to come.

Mike Aulby

While Aulby enjoyed the majority of his success later in his career, his name became one to note when he won the first of his 27 PBA titles in 1979. He had help from his brother-in-law with two of the titles from doubles tournaments.

Aulby is highly regarded as a player with exceptional skills.

This is likely because he was the first bowler to win four of the most esteemed titles: the US Open, PBA National Championship, Brunswick World Tournament of Champions, and the American Bowling Congress Masters. As a result, Aulby was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1996.

Mark Roth

This bowler was able to claim, “sometimes I throw rockets” because of his unique method of throwing his bowling ball. He used the hook and speed of his throws to help him win 34 titles during his career. He also secured many other titles, including setting a record for tour titles in 1978.

Roth ranked number five on the PBA list of 50 Greatest Players in 2009. Even though he passed away in 2021, his name is still heard around the alleys when players talk about the greats.

While other great bowlers enjoyed fame during the 1970s, the aforementioned names tend to come up time and again.

The Most Famous Female Bowlers From the ’70s

Women hold their own in any bowling match and have proved as much repeatedly. So it’s no surprise that several names come up fairly often when talking about the most famous female bowlers from the 1970s.

Patty Costello

Patty Costello with her father Scrantonian Jan 23 1977 pg 49 23 Jan 1977, Sun Scrantonian Tribune (Scranton, Pennsylvania) Newspapers.com

Costello was well-known for being a strong left-handed player during the 1970s and 1980s. During those two decades, she won 25 professional titles.

Unlike most bowlers, Costello was a late bloomer and didn’t start bowling until her mid-teens. Yet her natural instincts and ability contributed to her highly successful career. Before Costello passed away in 2009, she enjoyed her retirement by serving as a transport driver for a medical center in Pennsylvania.

Donna Adamek

It’s not often that you see someone voted in as the Woman Bowler of the Year for four years, but Adamek earned this well-deserved distinction. From 1978 on, she won the Women’s Open, the WIBC Queens, and the WPBA Championship.

According to the bowling star’s parents, Adamek was beating adult bowlers when she was only 10 years old. Adamek also bowled three perfect games (300). She shares his extraordinary feat with only four other women.

Vesma Grinfelds

Grinfelds wouldn’t have had her inspiring career if her parents hadn’t been able to successfully escape from Latvia in 1940. She went on to win 10 professional and 13 regional bowling titles throughout her career.

Grinfelds is also an author who penned the book Right Down Your Alley: The Complete Book of Bowling. You can still find it for sale at major book retailers today.

Lorrie Nichols

Not every player can leave their mark on every level of the sport, but Nichols is a rare exception. Her career spanned multiple decades, amassing impressive wins along the way.

Nichols grabbed all-events titles at the USBC Women’s Championships in 1971 and again in 1996. She also won a Federation Internationales de Quilleurs title in addition to 15 professional titles. Nichols was inducted into the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame in 1991.

Loa Boxerberger

Inducted into the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame in 1984, Boxerberger was well-known as a strong contender in the bowling world during the ’60s and ’70s. She won the USBC Queens, two USBC Women’s Championship team titles, two Japan Pearl Cup events, and the Brunswick Red Crow Classic.

Since her passing in 2021, people have remembered Boxberger as a beautiful woman of substance and character.

Any woman who makes a name for herself in bowling must be a person with great skill, confidence, and focus. And every woman mentioned here and so many others have all those traits, and those still among us continue to exceed expectations.

Patty Costello Leftie vs Righty Issue Childress TX Feb 3 1974 pg 16 03 Feb 1974, Sun The Childress Index (Childress, Texas) Newspapers.com

Who’s Your Bowling Idol?

Is your bowling idol on our list? If not, know this: when it comes to great bowlers of the 70s, there are simply too many names to list them all.

Talent abounded in this era, hence the fact that the 70s is considered the golden age of bowling. But we had to limit our list to the most famous bowlers of the decade.

Regardless of who your bowling idol is or what decade they found their success in, they’ve worked hard to earn every title and acknowledgment they got throughout their careers. So, if you’re hoping for a pro bowling career yourself, look to the pros of the past and today for guidance and inspiration.

Related Articles

• Professional Bowlers
• Professional Bowling Averages
• How to Hook a Bowling Ball

There’s a reason that after so many years, their names are not only recognized but continue to inspire up-and-coming bowlers. Learn from their legacy and keep working to improve your bowling technique - and one day, your name could be up in lights just like the legends of the 70s.

We hope that you found this article helpful and insightful. And we wish you the best of luck in your bowling endeavors, no matter how big or small.

When you go to the bowling alley, you'll quickly notice that people are feverishly concentrating on every aspect of approaching, swinging, and delivering their shots. Some even appear to perform an unusual dance as they walk up to the foul line.

All of this focus begs the question: is there a “right” way to bowl? Not really. But there are some strategies that can help you improve your skills. And that's what we'll focus on in this article.

Bowling Strategies for Beginners

Bowling can be super intimidating if you don’t know what you’re doing. You might see some pretty talented bowlers before you begin your own game and wonder how they got to develop their skills.

Chances are, they practiced and fine-tuned their strategies over time. Here are some steps to follow to perfect your own strategy when bowling as a beginner:

Get Your Approach Right

Some bowling pros believe that a bowler’s approach and swing matter more than any other aspect of the game. If you’re unfamiliar with the bowling approach, this is where you decide where to position yourself and how you’ll get to the foul line to deliver the bowling ball. Your goal is to see which position and spot you need to be able to throw the perfect ball. 

Ideally, your approach will include four steps. Your first step is where you move the ball out in front of you. The second step is where you swing the ball down toward the ground. The third step is where you swing the ball back and behind you. Then the fourth and final step is where you swing forward and release.  

Hold Your Ball Properly

The way you hold your ball matters when you play. Even if your approach and swing are perfect, you can bowl a bad game if you don’t hold your ball correctly. There are many ways to hold bowling balls, and only you can determine which method works best for you.

Release Your Thumbs First

Have you ever wondered why most pro bowlers hook the ball? It’s the ideal shot to get into the pocket and get some strikes. To get your ball to hook, you need to perfect your release.

As you grow as a bowler, practice pulling your thumb out of the ball just a moment before the fingers. Doing so will get your ball to spin. This takes effort, but when you see that gorgeous hook for the first time, it’ll all be worth it. 

If you’re unsure about what to look for or how to release your ball correctly, take time to watch a pro or experienced player at your local alley. You can also find many videos online to help you understand what to look for as you release and how it behaves as the ball passes through the oil. 

Good Aim Is Essential

Once you get your approach, swing, and release down, you'll want to be able to aim your ball. The next time you’re at the bowling alley, take a look at the markers and reference points on the lane. Many experienced bowlers focus on the arrow on the lane instead of the pins.

You’ll want to aim at the arrows that will ultimately get your ball to hit its target pins. This is where your hook will come into play. If you have a natural hook or like to spin your ball a certain way, you’ll aim for the arrow where your ball will start to hook toward your target pin (that’s your breakpoint).

When you begin to implement these beginner strategies while you play, it can be astounding how much you’ll notice with each step. So, keep working on them to climb the scoreboard faster. 

Bowling Aim Strategies

We mentioned aim briefly above, but there are some more targeted strategies you can use to gain greater control over the trajectory of your ball, and, consequently, your score. Keep reading for some aiming strategies for beginners. 

• Aim for a specific pin: This is a simple and easy way to aim, especially if you’re newer to bowling. Simply aim for your chosen pin or a space between multiple pins to knock them down. This strategy works especially well for spare shots. 
• Use the arrows as a guide: All bowling lanes have clearly marked arrows extending across the lane horizontally. These arrows can be helpful since they are closer to you than the pins themselves (just 15 feet from the foul line). The arrows are also a great place to target if you throw hooks. 
• Connect the Dot: You can also use the indicator dots on the lane as a target for the perfect shot. They are just 7.5 feet from the foul line – so they’re your closest possible target. Use them if the arrows are too far to be helpful for your shots. 
• Target a spot on the lane: Another strategy that gives you a broader target to aim at during your turn is a prominent spot on the lane. Many bowlers select a set of three or so wooden planks as a target.

We encourage you to test out some of these aiming strategies to see what works best for you.

Bowling Strategies for Getting Strikes

Strikes are the ultimate goal for each frame. Getting a strike time and again takes a lot of work and practice. But if you implement the below strategies, you can get more strikes than you’ve ever gotten before. 

• Master Your Hook: Even if you’re just starting out, you’ve probably heard players referring to the hook of their throw. “Hook” refers to when your ball curves or turns during its trip down the lane. When you hook a ball, the ball begins to turn inward and hit the pins at an angle – and when it’s done right, you can set off a domino effect that knocks down the pins with enhanced consistency. 
• Keep it Straight: While hooks are pretty standard when trying to get strikes, the value of a straight shot shouldn’t be underestimated. Beginners lean on straight shots, aiming for the center arrow, at least in the beginning. 

Hitting the headpin (the one closest to you) might seem like the best choice when bowling a straight ball, but it could leave you with the dreaded 7/10 split. Instead, go for the space between pins 1 (head pin) and 2 or pins 1 (head pin) and 3 to increase your chances of knocking all the pins down. 

• Extend Your Arm: Your swing has more to do with how your ball behaves and responds, on the bowling lane, than you think. Keep your arm straight on the backswing and as close to your side as possible. Follow through by allowing your bowling arm to reach shoulder level when you swing. A straight arm gives you more control and power. Following this tip could result in more strikes. 
• Get the Right Ball: The right ball makes a world of difference getting a higher bowling score. Bigger doesn’t always mean better, and the wrong size can make every single bowling game a less-than-stellar one. Get the right ball, get to know it, and practice all the strategies here. When you have the right equipment, your performance will be noticeably better. Start with a polyester ball that’s about 10% of your body weight (up to 16 lbs). 

Related Articles

• How to Bowl for Beginners
• Four Step Approach in Bowling
• Holding a Bowling Ball

Seeking out different strategies can improve your bowling skills but don’t expect change overnight. It will still take time to build your skillset, so be patient with yourself as you learn the bowling basics and keep at it. We hope that this article has given you the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you become a better bowler! 

When anyone starts to learn how to bowl, most of the focus tends to fall on choosing the right ball and how to use it to get the most points in a game.

It’s a logical place to start, considering how much the professional community talks about these things and how important they are to your game. 

Yet there’s another factor in bowling that is often overlooked, especially when it comes to beginners: bowling pins. Read on to learn more about how much a bowling pin weighs and how it can significantly change your game. Let’s get right into it!

How Much Do Bowling Pins Weigh

Most people are familiar with typical house bowling pins, which weigh about 3 lbs and 6 oz., or 1 ½ kg. In the US, the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) decides what the weight of a pin should be.

World Bowling has adopted the same regulation bowling pin weight for bowling pins internationally, making pins reasonably consistent no matter where you decide to bowl. The pins should not weigh more than 3 lbs, 10 oz, or 1.6 kg as per regulations. 

10-Pin Bowling Pin Weights

Ten-pin bowling pins tend to be large and heavy and are the ones that you see used in most bowling games. When most people across the United States - and even the world - think about bowling pins and bowling as a sport, this is typically what they'll be imagining.

Every single pin comes in at around 3.5 lbs or 1 ½ kg. They stand about 15 inches tall and measure about 4.7 inches at their widest point.  

However, these pins come in various styles, and you can bowl using one of three different types of 10-pin bowling pins. They are as follows:

• Vulcan Vultex 2 Bowling Pin: Technology has brought the next level of bowling pins to the marketplace with this durable option for those able to make a bit more of an investment. They’re covered with the latest protective coatings designed by science and perfected through extensive testing. They can withstand strike after strike. These cutting-edge pins cost more than your standard Winsome bowling pin but can last much longer due to their long-lasting protective coating.
• Winsome Bowling Pin: This pin is widely used for more casual yet still competitive settings and is most likely the one that is used in your local bowling alley. They’re an affordable and reliable brand, providing local business owners with a way to combine value and quality pins for fun and tournament play.
• Brunswick PBA Gold Pin: These pins are the gold standard of bowling pins and are used during most professional tournaments. Since these are considered by many to be the best pins that can be used in bowling, they proudly display the PBA logo to set themselves apart from all other 10-pin bowling pins. You’ll know that you’re playing a professional-level game whenever you see these pins on your lane.

Candlepin Bowling Pin Weights

If you live in the New England area, these are the pins you’ve most likely seen in use at your local bowling alley. A distinct difference between these pins and other bowling pins 10-pin bowling pins is that these pins do not have a neck.

As a result, these pins are far lighter than the typical 10-pin bowling pins, coming in at around 2.4 lbs or 1.1 kg. If you’re bowling with these pins, you’ll need to use a lighter ball than your typical fare to compensate for these pins’ weight. You’ll find that these pins are also taller than your typical 10-pin, coming in at 15 ¾ inches, while they are 2.9 inches at their widest point. 

Five Pin Bowling Pin Weights

While you don’t see five-pin bowling in play very often since the well-known standard is the ten-pin variety, it is a variety available for bowlers looking for a bit of a different challenge.

These pins top out at a height of 12 ½ inches and have a 5-inch diameter at their widest point. These pins typically weigh in at around 2 lbs and 7 oz.

All around, it’s a unique experience that’s worth giving a chance if you ever have the opportunity.

Ninepins Bowling Pin Weights

These pins are also known as Kegel’s pins. They weigh about 2.86 lbs and are about as wide as a 10-pin. This is a pin variety most commonly used in Europe, with championships being held annually.

Are PBA Pins Heavier?

The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) is the governing body of professional bowling, and they have set the regulatory weight of 3 lbs 8 oz, give or take 2 oz, for standard 10-pin games. The weight of PBA pins can vary depending on the set of pins and their manufacturing specs, but they must fit within the regulations.

The most notable case of a heavier PBA pin is the Brunswick PBS Gold Pin.

It weighs in at the maximum 3 lbs, 10 oz allowed by the PBA and has proven to be a bit of a challenge to even some of the best bowlers playing in professional tournaments. This is one of the reasons it’s often used in these competitions.

Does a Bowling Pin’s Weight Affect Your Scoring Potential?

Every single aspect involved in a bowling game can affect your scoring potential, from how the alley is waxed, to the sort of bowling ball you use, and yes - even the bowling pins’ weight.

You can polish, master, and adapt your game when you practice with a specific set of pins or similarly weighted pins. You learn how the pin responds to your throws and can tweak your performance until you find your rhythm, being able to rely on familiar physics for each throw.

When you bowl and find yourself puzzled by the pin’s reaction upon impact, it could mean that your pins are too heavy or too light. It never hurts to take a step back and double-check that you’ve taken your pins’ weight and type into consideration in your bowling strategy.

There isn’t a minimum weight requirement for bowling balls, but they have a maximum 16 lb limit on their weight. If you don’t use your own bowling ball, always choose a similar house ball size for each game you play and even while you practice.

If you’re sure that your ball weight is always consistent, and yet the pins are not responding the way you’ve learned to expect, it’s much more likely that the pins' weight could be the problem.

The purpose of the weight standard is to allow for fair games for everyone in the sport worldwide. If the pin weight were unregulated, you’d never know what to expect when bowling at a new bowling alley or in a league tournament.

You’d always have to spend some time getting acclimated to the pins’ weight. 

Related Articles

• What Are Bowling Pins Made Of
• How Many Pins in Bowling
• How Is a Bowling Ball Made

So there you have it – and now that you know how much each type of bowling pin weighs don’t usually vary too much in weight, and it’s by design. You can rest assured that when you go to a random bowling alley, the pins’ weight will be similar to what you’re used to.

Now that you understand bowling pin weights continue to expand your knowledge by learning about bowling ball weights, lane oil patterns, and more.

There’s so much to take in, and all of it is important.

Taking all game factors and variances into account is the most innovative way to take your bowling skills to the next level. We hope that you found this article helpful and we wish you the best as you dive headfirst into what bowling is all about!  

Does the concept of bowling stances confuse you? If so, there you're like many beginners who haven't yet solidified the basics. But don't worry - in this article; we explore the topic of bowling stances in detail so you can learn everything you need to know.

Let's get right into it!

Bowling Stances: What Exactly Are They?

A bowling stance is what you see when you watch any bowling game, and the bowler gets their ball, strikes (no pun intended) an unusual pose near the ball return before they make their approach to the foul line. That "pose" is their stance or “address,” and it is quite an essential part of the game.

The Importance of a Bowling Stance

A bowler’s stance sets the tone for the entire shot. It is your foundation, and a proper stance will provide you with the leverage, balance, and power needed to make a successful shot.

An improper stance, on the other hand, will result in a wild and uncontrolled throw that is likely to miss your target.

In addition, your stance is a repetitive action that can be repeated at least twenty times in a game, and ensuring it is correct and comfortable is better for your body. So, it's worthwhile to spend some time learning the aspects of a proper stance.

Bowling Stance and Approach

When you’re getting ready to bowl, there are two key things you need to keep in mind - your stance and your approach. In case you didn't know, these elements go hand in hand.

There are a few options bowlers currently use to approach the foul line:

• The Four-Step Delivery: This is arguably the most common delivery method today’s bowlers use. To find your starting point, begin at the foul line, standing with your back towards the bowling pins with the center dot a couple of inches behind your feet. Take 4 ½ steps away from the foul line before turning to face the pins. This is where you’ll begin your stance.
• The Five-Step Delivery: If you want to use the five-step delivery, you simply follow the same steps as the four-step delivery. The only difference is that you'll take 1 additional step from the foul line before turning. This means you will take a total of 5 ½ steps away from the foul line.
• The Two-Handed Approach: This approach is similar to the previous delivery methods. Of course, the exception is how the ball must be held in both hands. You'll insert your fingers inside the ball with or without your thumb, and place your other hand on top of the ball.

It might seem silly to plan for the step you take after you are positioned in your stance, but there are no wasted steps in bowling. Each movement and decision you make in bowling will affect the outcome of your shot.

How to Hold the Ball During Your Stance

Where you hold your ball also makes a difference in your shot. Here are some of the common ways people hold their ball during their stance:

1. The Face: hold the ball in your dominant bowling hand, in front of your face, while ensuring you can safely see where you will move.
2. The Shot Gun: hold the ball close to or even with your waist.
3. The Third Stance: hold the ball low with the arm fully extended.

Make sure that whatever stance you take, you are comfortable. If you’re stressed and tense, it will show in your shot.

11 Bowling Stance Tips You Need to Know

There's no perfect bowling stance that works for every bowler. The key is to find a stance that works well for you and makes you feel comfortable.

With that said, here are a few tips to help you fine-tune your stance:

• Decide on the approach you want to use and move to where you’ll need to be to complete that approach. It’s okay to pace to where you’ll have your stance every time you bowl, especially if you don’t play at the same alley all the time. You'll eventually get a feel for where to start.
• Place your feet shoulder-width apart for a proper stance. This will help you maintain balance. For right-handed bowlers, your left foot can be slightly in front of your right foot and in reverse if you are a left-handed bowler.
• Test your knees and bend them until you find a comfortable position. If you’re the most comfortable with your knees straight, try to avoid locking them to prevent injury as you begin your approach.
• Position your bowling shoulder an inch or two lower than the other while pushing it back about an inch behind your other shoulder. This accommodates the extra weight of the bowling ball while preparing your shoulder to be able to swing the ball as smoothly as possible.
• Pay attention to every move you make. If you find your stance position uncomfortable or awkward, alter it and try a different variation.
• If you work out to improve your game, make sure that you work on your core. A strong, stable core is important for a proper and explosive bowling delivery. It can also help prevent injuries to other body parts, like your lower back and hips.
• Make sure that you have a good grip on the ball. Even if you’re standing in your stance, you want to be in complete control of your ball.
• Remember to breathe. Yes, even in your stance. Taking deep breaths helps you relax and focus on your shot and breathe through your arm swing as it swings in a straight line.
• Record your bowling shots. This will help you track your progress and identify any areas that need improvement. You can use a regular video camera or even your smartphone to do this.
• Practice your stance and delivery at home. Even if you don't have a bowling ball or alley, you can still practice your form. Just make sure that you have enough space to move around without harming yourself or anyone else.
• When you're ready to hit the lanes, make sure that you warm up first. This will help prevent injuries and get your muscles loose and ready to bowl. Stretch out your back, arms, and legs. You can also do some light cardio to get your blood flowing.

These are a lot of tips to remember, but remember that they are only tips. You might not be able to follow all of them, and that’s okay. Just focus on the ones that work best for you and then build upon that.

Consistency Is Key

When you know what’s working, go with it and be consistent. If you change your stance for every shot, you’ll never get a feel for what works best for you. The more consistent you are with your shots, the better your game will be.

When to Ask For Help

Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're having trouble finding a stance that works, or you're just not sure what you're doing, ask a friend or family member for help. You can also ask your local bowling alley for tips or lessons.

Many alleys offer helpful programs for beginners.

If you’re new to bowling and just learning about the importance of your stance, it might seem like a lot of effort to put into something that isn’t as cut-and-dry as you’d like it to be.

But if you want to become a better bowler, avoid injuries, and improve your score, perfecting your own stance is a great way to get started.

Related Articles

• Proper Form for Rolling a Bowling Ball
• Bowling Rules
• How to Be Good at Bowling

Keep in mind that if something doesn’t feel right, causes discomfort, or contributes to a bad throw, you don’t have to keep it up. Instead, try something different, or adjust your position by an inch or two.

You know your body better than anyone else, so trust your instincts. We hope these tips have been helpful to you, and we wish you the best as you perfect your stance and overall game.

Whether you're a seasoned bowler or just getting started, joining a bowling team can be a great way to test your skills.

But before you can start enjoying the benefits of being on a team, you need to know about bowling team positions. In case you weren't aware, these positions are more important than you think.

In this article, we'll tell you all you need to know about bowling team positions and responsibilities.

Bowling Team Positions and Roles

Unless you’ve bowled regularly or on a team before, you might not have realized that bowling often involves team play. This dynamic dictates that each team is divided into specific positions.

The consensus is to start by rating players from best to the worst bowler. Typical positions include:

• First Position: This player is also referred to as “the table setter,” meaning their job is to set the team up for a good start. Typically, the first bowler is the third-best bowler on the team.
• Second Position: This position is reserved for the "greenest" player on the team. The reason why is that there are three more teammates who can help to bump up the score as needed. Though this is the case, the second position still plays an important role. Every point counts.
• Third Position: If you're in the third position, you're someone who has the potential to elevate the team’s score, though you may not be the best on the team. This player might be newer and lack experience, but their growth and contribution to the team are still valued. As with the second position, the team can help boost a low score if the third position player has a bad frame.
• Fourth Position: You’ll want to place a pretty consistent bowler in the fourth position. Sometimes referred to as the “setup man,” this player has proven to be consistent with good scores.
• Fifth Position: Another term for the fifth position refers to this player as an “anchor” for the team. This will typically be the best player on the team who can perform at an exceptional level on demand and is mentally strong. The expectation is these are the best bowlers and will consistently deliver strikes.

Many times, teams are put together according to a player’s average score. Some people prefer to use the average score of a particular player while considering individual strengths and weaknesses.

The team selection process isn’t a popularity contest and, if it were to be treated as such, could create a weak, underperforming team. Remember that if someone wants you on their team, it’s because they feel you deserve a spot on it.

Choosing and Creating Your Bowling Team

Before you assign people positions, you have to have a team ready to go. When you select the players for your team, you’ll want to keep in mind the unique skill and potential of each player.

Even if you’re forming a team with family, friends, or co-workers, it’s still important to consider everyone’s strengths. You may also want to have people try out for specific positions.

Most bowling leagues consist of between three and five players, with five person bowling team being the most common for competitive team bowling. The five-person team is the maximum number set by the USBC (United States Bowling Congress).

10 Strategies for Bowling Teams

Just because each person on a bowling team was selected specifically for how they play and what they’ll contribute, it doesn’t mean that you won't work together on a strategy.

When everyone knows the goals and expectations of all players involved, it'll be easier to rack up those points. Here are some strategies other teams have found to be helpful:

1. Focus on winning against your counterpart. You can only control your bowl. When you break your game down to a one-on-one battle, it can help you to focus more on what you need to do.
2. Pay attention to your overall team performance. If one player is performing poorly, you’ll have to aim higher than simply beating the score of your counterpart.
3. Cheer on your teammates even if they’re bowling a poor game. Positive vibes can go a long way when things aren't going as planned.
4. Set a goal for a percentage of matches you want to win in a season. Having a goal to strive for will help to keep you motivated.
5. Decide if you want to practice together, as individuals, or both. Practicing together builds a sense of camaraderie and can help you to learn each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Individual practice, on the other hand, is an excellent way to work on specific weaknesses or skills that need refinement. A mixture of both could be ideal.
6. Don't play on a team with someone who isn't team-minded. This person is not suited to play in a group setting and could drag the rest of the team down into a losing position. It's best to find someone who is supportive and willing to work together toward a common goal.
7. Pay attention to the game's pace. Your team's pace should be in line with that of your opponent. Some tournaments have a rule that if you slow-bowl, you forfeit the game.
8. Have backup players in mind if you ever have a team member who needs replacing. This may become necessary if a player repeatedly misses games or chooses to bow out of their commitment. Make sure you know your league’s rules regarding substitutes and new bowlers.
9. Give and take criticism and help. Be ready to help struggling players with constructive and helpful details about their performance. If you suspect they aren’t using the right equipment for the game or that their approach or swing is off, speak up. You should also be open to accepting help from other team members. You’re all in it together.
10. Don’t forget to include all of your team members in practices, meetings, and even social events. Your bowling team is a fully functioning unit. Investing some time outside of competitions can help form stronger bonds.

Bowling Team Responsibilities

Your bowling team will likely have its own “manager” or point person. And it’s easy for players to put all responsibility on the one they perceive is in charge.

Our advice is to avoid relying on your team leader for everything. Offer to help and take on roles that clearly aren’t that person's responsibility. This might mean you clean up your playing area after all your teammates have left.

While you didn’t sign up to clean up after others, you're taking on a task that would have otherwise fallen on the leader’s already heavy plate.

Bowling is a sport built on etiquette.

As a team member, make sure you’re upholding the values of the game. This includes being on time for your matches and not purposely distracting your opponents.

It also means being a good sport when you lose and congratulating your opponents when they win. No one likes a sore loser.

If you’re a beginner, you may need some help understanding all the rules of the game. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put in the effort to understand as much as you can.

At the very least, you should know the scoring system and how to properly throw a ball. The more you know, the more you can help your team.

Related Articles

• Scratch Bowling
• How to Join a Bowling League
• How to Calculate Handicap

So, there you have it - all you need to know about bowling team positions. Whether you're starting a team of your own or joining an existing one, understanding the different roles is essential for success.

If you are chosen to play position two or three, don't be discouraged - you're still an integral part of the team. Remember, it takes all positions working together to make a winning team.

We encourage you to continue working on your bowling skills and to always strive to improve your game. Who knows? Maybe next season, you'll be the one in position one. Good luck!

It's easy to walk into a bowling alley, bowl your game, and head home without taking in everything that makes a bowling alley work. However, everything from the automatic scoring system to the pinsetters is fascinating when you think about it.

Let's look at how bowling alleys work so that the next time you bowl, you'll be able to appreciate all that goes on behind the scenes fully!

How Do Bowling Alleys Work?

A bowling alley is a complex network of interconnected parts that operate in tandem. It's all activated when your ball hits a particular spot on the lane.

Keep reading to learn how a bowling alley works step by step:

1. You roll the ball down a wooden or synthetic lane.
2. Before it gets to the pins, the ball sets off a sensor hooked up to the pinsetter, which creates a chain reaction.
3. Whether your ball knocks down some pins or goes into the gutter, the gate comes down in front of any remaining pins to prevent you from knocking any pins down with a second ball.
4. A camera takes a picture of how many pins remain.
5. The scoring system records the number and calculates the result according to preset bowling rules.
6. The pinsetter then picks up the remaining pins and sweeps away the pins you knocked down in the pit where both the fallen ball and pins are collected.
7. The pins you missed the first time are placed onto the lane for your next throw.
8. Your ball is returned to you via the ball return - the ball goes up a ramp and then rides down a track system built under the bowling lane. Gravity gives the ball enough force to make it back to you.
9. The pins you already knocked down eventually go through a pin elevator wheel, which stands them back up.
10. The pins are then sent on another conveyor belt to be redistributed, placed into the pin table, and lowered for the next frame.

Note: Some bowling alleys may operate a bit differently, but this is a general overview of how most work.

This can be difficult to visualize - here's a video to help things make perfect sense.

Bowling Alley Equipment

Knowing about the equipment associated with bowling alleys is essential to understanding how they work. Here's a quick rundown of the equipment that keeps a bowling alley running smoothly: 

• Pinsetter - A pinsetter, or pin spotter, is a machine used to set up bowling pins, on a pin deck, for each roll. The first automatic pinsetter was created in 1956 by Brunswick. Today's pinsetter is not too different from the original Brunswick version.
• Ball return- Each lane in a bowling alley has a dedicated ball return, which returns the bowling ball after each roll.
• Scoreboard - A scoreboard keeps track of the score for each player in a game.
• Bowling shoes - Specialized shoes that bowlers either rent or bring to the bowling alley; wearing outside shoes on the approach can result in slips and falls.
• Bowling balls - Balls designed for use in bowling alleys are called house balls. They come in a variety of sizes, weights, and colors to suit every bowler's personal style.

How Bowling Alleys Keep Score

All bowling alleys in operation today have some version of an automatic scoring system. This system uses sensors to track the ball as it goes down the lane and knocks over the pins.

The sensors then send a signal to the scoring system, which automatically calculates and displays the score for that turn.

Some more advanced scoring systems can even keep track of statistics for individual bowlers. This information can be used to help bowlers improve their game or just to keep track of their progress over time.

The automatic scoring system is connected to the pinsetter, which is the machine that sets up the pins for each turn. This ensures that the pins are always correctly aligned and that the game can proceed smoothly.

How Bowling Alley Lanes Are Oiled

Most bowling alleys use a machine to oil their lanes. This machine applies a very thin layer of oil to the lane, which makes it easier for bowling balls to travel down the lane. Oil also helps to preserve the lanes and prevent premature wear and tear from the impact of bowling balls.

Oiling is typically done before the bowling alley opens for business.

The amount of oil applied depends on the oil used and the lane's conditions. If the lanes are dry, more oil may be needed to keep the balls from slowing down prematurely or getting stuck.

But it's not that straightforward - a bowling center also uses oil patterns to tailor bowlers' experiences. These patterns are created by a specialized machine that oils the lanes and can be customized for specific bowler types in different skill brackets.

A standard oil pattern used for recreational bowling is known as the "house shot. It's a very forgiving oil pattern that's harder to mess up on than a pattern like the Highway to Hell.

Recreational bowling patterns are super forgiving and usually preferred by casual bowlers. Challenge patterns are for avid bowlers, as they are a bit more difficult to maneuver.

And sport patterns are the toughest of the tough, reserved for pros and tournament play because the oil thins in various places, allowing any spinning ball to hit pins at an angle.

How Bowling Alleys Keep Bowlers Safe

One of the most important aspects of any bowling alley is ensuring bowlers are safe. This is why gutters line both sides of the lane. These gutters help to keep the bowling balls from flying off the lane and hitting someone.

Another safety feature of bowling alleys is the ball return. This system ensures that bowlers don't have to go down the lane to retrieve their balls.

Instead, the balls are automatically returned to the bowler after each turn.

Bowling alley staff also ensure that all bowlers wear specialized bowling shoes. Wearing outside shoes on the approach can result in slips and falls, so bowling alleys typically require that bowlers either rent shoes or bring their own.

In addition to these measures, most bowling alleys publish or post rules that help to keep everyone safe. For example, many bowling alleys prohibit running on the approach and ask bowlers not to reach into the ball return machine.

How Bowling Alleys Make Bowlers Stay Longer

To maximize revenue, bowling alley management strives to ensure bowlers stay for a long time and come back often. One way they do this is by offering food and drink options.

Most bowling alleys have a snack bar or concession stand that sells snacks and drinks. And some even have full-service restaurants. Another way bowling alleys keep bowlers around is by offering entertainment options beyond just bowling.

Many bowling alleys have pool tables, video games, and other activities that bowlers can enjoy. And some even host special events like live music or comedy shows.

Finally, many bowling alleys offer loyalty programs that give bowlers discounts and rewards for returning. For example, some alleys offer discounts for booking a lane online or signing up for a membership program.

Related Articles

• How Much Do Bowling Alleys Cost
• Basement Bowling Alley
• Home Bowling Alley

So, there you have it - everything you need to know about how bowling alleys work inside and out. We hope that you found this article to be helpful and that we've satisfied your curiosity.

The next time you visit a bowling alley, you'll have a better understanding of how it all works. We wish you the best in your bowling endeavors now and in the future. 

When you think about it, it's pretty amazing that bowling floors don’t break. After all, they have to withstand a constant onslaught of heavy bowling balls being thrown at them, day in and day out.

How do bowling floors not break? How do they stay in one piece? That's a good question, and we'll tell you exactly how they do it in this article.

How Do Bowling Floors Not Break

For starters, bowling floors are extremely tough and resilient. They are usually made of wood or synthetic materials. Here's what you need to know about these flooring options:

Wooden Bowling Lanes

Some bowlers believe that only the most upscale bowling alleys use natural wood for their lanes, but that's not true. Many bowling alleys have wooden lanes; sometimes, the wood extends throughout the bowling alley.

The most common woods used in bowling alley flooring include maple or pine. Many bowling alley managers choose to install pine for the lane and hard maple for the landing zone, approach, and pin deck.

Pine isn’t as susceptible to shrinking from changes in moisture or temperature as other types of wood can be, making it a stable choice for any lane. On the other hand, maple is durable and can withstand just about anything the average bowler can throw at it, making it a solid choice.

Wooden bowling lanes can be expensive and are not always practical for every alley.

Synthetic Bowling Lanes

Your average local bowling alley will likely have floors made of synthetic materials. These planks may look like wood, but that’s where the similarities end.

Synthetic lanes are usually made of fiberglass. It can withstand water damage, fire, heavy foot traffic, and damage from stray ball hits. Bowling alley managers also love that fiberglass isn’t prone to warping or cracking, a common problem with some types of natural wood flooring.

Overlays for Floor Repairs

Another option for bowling alley owners is installing overlays - this is ideal for those who need to fix a portion of the floor and are on a budget. It involves installing synthetic materials over the existing wooden or synthetic flooring.

How Thick Are Bowling Alley Floors?

Now that you know what bowling alley floors are made of, it's natural to wonder how thick they need to be to withstand the heavy daily wear they incur. The average thickness for most bowling lane flooring is about 2 ½ inches.

If you can’t visualize what 2 ½ inches look like, it’s worth pulling out a ruler to get an idea. Considering what a lane goes through daily, it’s pretty impressive that the flooring doesn’t need to be any thicker!

Can You Break a Bowling Lane?

Yes, you can break the floor of a bowling lane. But to crack, splinter, or dent the floor, you’d have to throw some pretty heavy balls with a lot of force.

For example, if you drop a bowling ball from the second floor onto the lane, there’s a good chance you’d break the floor. The same goes for if you slam a bowling ball on the lane in anger. We don’t recommend doing either of these things, but it is possible to break a bowling lane floor if you try hard enough.

Over the last 50 years or so, the wood and synthetic materials used in modern bowling facilities have set a standard of strength not seen in older lanes. It’s nearly impossible in most cases for the average bowler to break those floors when bowling regularly.

How to Maintain Bowling Floors

It’s worth noting right off the bat that wood floors require more maintenance than synthetic flooring. But, of course, if a lane owner wants wooden lanes and has the resources to maintain them, that's great!

Natural wood adds a lot of charm and value to the bowling alley.

While most floors in a household or even commercial facilities just require a simple cleaning now and then, bowling lanes require a bit more care. Here are some of the steps floor maintenance pros recommend to keep lanes clean, shiny and attractive:

1. Dust the lanes. Dusting makes a world of difference for both wood and synthetic floors. Depending on the amount of debris that needs to be removed from a lane, either a duster or liquid lane cleaner can be used. This should be enough to remove all of the dirt that may be there. A combination of both cleaners may also be used.
2. Sweep or dust the approach. While it tends to require simple sweeping or dusting as opposed to the deeper cleaning required for the actual lane, the approach area (the area where bowlers stand to take their shots) should also be kept clean. If neglected, the floors may end up with a buildup of scuff marks, spills, and particles that can be transferred to the lane itself.
3. Condition the lanes. Lane oil or conditioner will help to protect the surface of the lane throughout the day. Pros recommend applying the conditioner around the same time each day for consistent protection.
4. Don’t neglect the pin deck area when maintaining your flooring. While the finish on these areas is made to withstand a ton of impact, residue and other particles should be cleaned from the area regularly to help preserve its integrity.
5. Deep clean the lane as needed. When the oil and debris on the lane reach a certain point, it’s easy to tell that it’s time to give the lane a deep cleaning. This usually happens every week or so, but it depends on how often the lanes are used.
6. Repair as needed. It’s essential not to ignore any damage that may occur to the floor of a lane. Cracks, chips, and other damage should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure the lane is safe for use.

Lane maintenance is a huge part of running a bowling alley, and it takes a lot of skill and knowledge to be good at it. Because of the sheer amount of work involved, bowling alley managers will typically hire a maintenance service to care for their lanes, from cleaning to periodic repairs.

Can the Flooring Type Impact a Bowler’s Game?

The type of flooring used in a bowling alley can have an impact on a bowler’s game, but it’s typically not a significant one. In most cases, it’s the lane conditions that have the most significant impact on a player’s game.

That being said, there are some subtle differences between wood and synthetic flooring that can affect a player’s game. For example, wood floors are more likely to show wear and tear over time, which can impact the way the ball rolls.

Synthetic floors, on the other hand, are designed to be more durable and consistent, so they may provide a slightly more predictable surface for the ball to roll on.

The most influential factor in a bowler’s game (when it comes to the lanes) is the oil pattern used. So, there's no need to worry too much about the type of flooring when choosing a bowling alley.

Related Articles

• Bowling Alley Floor
• Oil Bowling Lanes
• Are Bowling Lanes Flat

So, there you have it - bowling alley floors are able to withstand a lot of abuse before breaking. And with the proper maintenance, they can stay in great condition for many years.

Whether you're an aspiring bowling alley owner or a curious bowler, we hope that you were able to find all the information you were looking for.

Good luck in your future bowling (or bowling alley ownership) endeavors!

In bowling, players must wear shoes that are specifically designed for the sport. 

Unlike other athletic shoes, which are designed to be stylish and attractive, these shoes are often bulky and hideous. 

Some people believe that this is because the shoes are designed to provide the player with maximum traction and stability. Others believe that the ugly design of bowling shoes is simply a result of poor fashion choices.

I also see them to be ugly and that’s why I have written this piece to help you understand why they look so ridiculous.

Let’s get started!

Why Are Bowling Shoes So Ugly?

Bowling shoes are considered to be ugly and unstylish because they come in colors and patterns that can be considered gaudy. They have the same design, and don’t offer any individuality or personality to bowlers as they are made from synthetic materials that don’t look as nice as leather. Finally, they tend to be very wide and clunky, which can make them look awkward on the feet.

Below are a few reasons why people might think bowling shoes look ridiculous. 

4 Reasons Why People Think Bowling Shoes Are Ugly? 

1. Color of Bowling Shoes

Bowling shoes are often poorly colored and have patterns that some people might find tacky. 

Additionally, they sometimes have laces that are too long or too short, which can also be problematic.

2. Skin of Bowling Shoes

People think that the skin of bowling shoes is often not very aesthetically pleasing. That they’re made of cheap materials that look like they would be uncomfortable to wear. 

Apart from the skin, the soles of bowling shoes are often very thick and clunky, which can make them look awkward and impractical. 

Personally, I consider the overall design of bowling shoes not very stylish or fashionable.

3. Lack of Individuality or Personality

Many people have always found ways to express themselves, whether it be through clothing, art, or music. 

One of the most popular forms of self-expression is through fashion. 

People use fashion to express their individuality and personality. While some choose to dress in a more conservative way, others like to push the boundaries and express themselves in a more unique way which bowling shoes don't offer.

People feel that these shoes lack any form of individuality or personality.

4. They’re Unfashionable

Some think that these shoes are ugly because they make them look quite garish and unappealing. 

They tend to be quite bulky and have a very wide toe box which leaves them looking unfashionable and outdated.

The History of Bowling Shoes: From Practical to Style 

Bowling shoes have been around for centuries and their history is fascinating. They were originally made of leather in 1848 but have undergone many changes since.

Today, they're made of synthetic materials like rubber and plastic, including leather by some brands.

Before modern bowling shoes were made, they were initially black in color, looked like sneakers, and had a rubber sole. In the 19th century, they began to add spikes on the bottom to help keep bowlers from slipping.

They're currently designed to provide bowlers with traction and support while they're bowling.

4 Reasons Bowling Shoes Are Made the Way They Are (Benefits)

While bowling shoes may not be everyone's cup of tea, there are still plenty of reasons they are made as they are!

Here are the reasons.

1. The Function of Bowling Shoes: Slip-Resistant Soles 

Bowling shoes are made to be slip-resistant. 

This is because when you bowl, you want to be able to slide your foot forward so that you can get a good throw. If your shoe is too slippery, it will make it difficult to control your throw. 

The other reason why bowling shoes are made to be slip-resistant is so that you can walk on the lane without slipping and falling. 

2. Mass-Produced for Function, Not Style

Unlike other athletic shoes, bowling shoes are designed to give the wearer an edge on the competition.

The average bowling shoe is made of synthetic materials, mass-produced for function rather than style.

They often have interchangeable soles that can be swapped out depending on the type of surface you'll be bowling on. This helps to ensure that you always have the best grip possible.

3. They Are Only Worn in Bowling Alleys Where Style Isn’t a Thing

Another reason why bowling shoes are made ugly is that they’re only worn in bowling alleys where style isn't as important as bowling turkeys and perfect games. 

Unless it’s an event such as cosmic bowling, bowling alleys are all about function over fashion, and that's why the shoes are made the way they are.

4. Focused on Safety and Comfort

Bowling shoes are specifically designed to provide safety and comfort for bowlers.

The soles of bowling shoes are made from a slippery material that allows bowlers to glide across the floor easily. This helps bowlers maintain their balance and prevents them from slipping and falling. 

The soles also have raised heels that help bowlers keep their feet in the correct position when they're throwing the ball.

The design of a typical bowling shoe has not changed much in the last 50 years. The shoes are designed to provide traction and stability when bowling, as well as protect the wearer's feet from the heavy balls.

The uppers of bowling shoes are usually made from leather or synthetic materials. These materials are tough and durable, which is important because bowling shoes take a lot of wear and tear. 

The uppers also need to be breathable to keep bowlers' feet cool and comfortable during long games.

Explaining Bowling Shoes by BuddiesProShop.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• How to Clean Shoe Soles
• Can You Put Shoe Soles in the Washer
• Best Bowling Shoes

In conclusion, bowling shoes are designed to be functional and comfortable rather than fashionable. 

While some may find them ugly, their purpose is to help improve your game. So next time you head to the bowling alley, don't forget your shoes!

Have you ever wondered what bowling balls are made of? 

The choice of a bowling ball will determine how you’ll best experience the sport.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the different materials used to make bowling balls and discuss the pros and cons of each one. 

We'll also help you decide which material is right for you. 

So if you're curious about the construction of your favorite bowling ball, read on!

What Are Bowling Balls Made Of?

Bowling balls have four (4) different coverstock materials: plastics, urethanes, three different reactive resins and proactive (particle) resins. In addition, some manufacturers also add cores made from materials like ceramic or particle board to their bowling balls in order to provide better stability and performance. 

Different Types of Bowling Balls

There are many different types of bowling balls available on the market today, each designed for a specific purpose. 

The most common types of bowling balls are:

• Tenpin ball: The commonly used bowling balls with three holes used for a ten-pin bowling game.
• Duckpin bowling ball: It is smaller than the ten-pin ball just around 4.75–5.00 inches in diameter. It doesn’t have any holes. Pins to be knocked down in a duckpin game are usually  60% smaller than the regular pins.
• Candlepin bowling ball: This is the smallest ball of all, weighing around 2 lbs. It has no holes.

What Materials Are Bowling Balls Made Of? (Raw Materials)

Most bowling balls are made of a type of hard plastic called polyester. The outer surface of the ball is smooth, and the inside is filled with a series of small, hard pellets. This design helps to give the ball the desired level of bounce and spin. 

Polyester is a durable synthetic fiber that is resistant to abrasion and wear.  Plastic is the least common type of material used in bowling balls, but it is still an option for some manufacturers. It is a light-weight and inexpensive material that offers good durability. 

Some high-end bowling balls may also contain reactive resin, which further enhances their performance.

In addition to polyester (plastic) and reactive resin, bowling balls can also be made of urethane. Urethane is a synthetic polymer that is known for its flexibility and resilience.

No matter what type of material a bowling ball is made of, it must meet certain performance standards set by the US Bowling Congress. These standards ensure that all balls are uniform in size and weight, and have the same level of bounce and rebound.

How Are Bowling Balls Made? (The Manufacturing Process)

A bowling ball is made of three layers: the coverstock, the core, and the inner core.

The coverstock is the outermost layer and is made of either plastic or urethane.

The core is the innermost layer and is made of either a solid or liquid substance. The coverstock and inner core are all vulcanized together under high pressure and heat.

Afterward, the coverstock is then sanded and polished to create a smooth surface. 

The manufacturing process can be divided into 4 segments as below.

1. Making the Core

Before anything is done, a mold is made following the core shape designed during the computerized ball design process. 

Here, the materials to be used are poured into core mold then allowed some time to harden. 

Then ceramic cores are fired in a kiln. The manufactures can then insert the core above in a second mold then create a compound core using a material of a different density.

2. Forming the Shell

A shell is then formed by placing the finished core in a spherical mold called the coverstock. 

The core is then attached to a pin projecting inward from the shell of the mold. The purpose of the pin is to hold the core in position.

Next, the core is encased by pouring the coverstock material into the mold then allowed to harden. 

3. Filling the Gaps

Taking out the ball from the coverstock will reveal a hole where the core-holding pin had been. To fill the hole, a plastic dowel is cemented into the hole. 

4. Finishing

Here, the bowling ball is then finished to the proper size specification. A  centerless grinder is used to shave off excess coverstock.

Finally, the ball is finished to the desired texture, sanded, and polish applied. 

Process of Making Bowling Ball. Robot Mass Production Technology Is Amazing

What Does a Bowling Ball Coverstock Do?

A bowling ball's coverstock is the outer layer that comes into contact with the lane. It is made of a variety of materials, including urethane, plastic, and resin. It is also the layer that undergoes the most wear and tear, so it must be tough enough to withstand repeated impact.

The coverstock is responsible for providing traction on the lane, as well as creating friction in order to generate spin. The type of coverstock you choose will affect the ball's hook potential and overall performance.

Plastic coverstocks are the least reactive and provide the least hook potential. They are best suited for dry lane conditions and picking up spares when the ball needs to thrown straight. 

Urethane coverstocks are more reactive than plastic and provide moderate hook potential. They are best suited for dry/medium lane conditions. 

Reactive resin coverstocks are the most reactive and provide the most hook potential. They are best suited for oily/slippery lane conditions.

When choosing a bowling ball, it is important to select a coverstock that is appropriate for the lane conditions you will be bowling on and your style of bowling.

Types of Bowling Ball Coverstocks

There are 4 types of bowling ball coverstocks as below:

• Plastic
• Urethane
• Resin or Reactive balls
• Proactive or Particle

Plastic Bowling Balls

Plastic bowling balls is the house ball, which is generally made of plastic and is intended for use on short, mat-like lanes. 

While most people think of bowling balls as being made of heavy, hard plastic, the fact is that there are many balls made of a soft type of plastic. 

They typically are much softer than a urethane balls, and it will also be much more likely to bounce when it hits the pins. The house ball hook is zero.

Urethane Bowling Balls

Urethane balls are made from a type of synthetic plastic that is known for its durability and resilience. This makes them ideal for use on hard lanes, as they are less likely to crack or chip than other types of balls. 

Urethane balls also tend to be far less responsive to temperature changes than other types of balls, meaning they can be used in a wider range of conditions. As a result, urethane bowling balls are an excellent choice for serious bowlers who want consistent performance. They provide a good balance between hook and control. 

Reactive (Resin) Bowling Ball

Another common type of ball is the Reactive resin ball, which is designed to provide optimum hook potential and pin action. They are made of a hard plastic material that is infused with a resin compound.

This combination gives the ball a strong hooking potential while still providing a consistent roll. They are heavy balls, which are typically used by expert bowlers who need extra weight to increase their strike potential. 

Reactive Pearl

Reactive Solid

Reactive Hybrid

Proactive (Particle)

Proactive (particle) coverstocks have additonal microscopic material in the coverstock that comes in contact with the lane, and creates its own friction. The surface is textured.

Bowling With Zone Pro Active 1998 Azure Particle #BowlingWithRelics 16lb Ball Review Vic Amann

What Is Inside of a Bowling Ball - Types of Bowling Ball Cores/ Weight Block

The core of a bowling ball is the heaviest and densest part of the ball. It is also the largest-diameter piece of the ball, measuring between 2.75 and 3 inches depending on the size of the ball. 

The core is responsible for approximately 60 percent of the weight of the ball, with the rest coming from the coverstock. The type of core used in a bowling ball can have a significant effect on its performance. 

The most common types of bowling ball cores are:

Asymmetrical cores

Asymmetric or solid cores are the heaviest and densest type of core, which results in slower speeds but more power. 

Pancake cores:

Pancake cores are lighter and thinner than solid cores, which leads to faster speeds but less power. 

Symmetrical cores

Symmetric cores are balanced in terms of weight and thickness, which provides a good mix of speed and power. The type of core you choose should be based on your own personal style of play.

Specifications of a Bowling Ball

The following specifications must be noted while buying or producing a bowling ball as needed by the United States Bowling Congress (USBC).

• The bowling ball must be made of solid material and have a smooth surface. It should not consist of any liquid or void in the middle.
• The coverstock material must be evenly spread on the whole core.
• A bowling ball may not weigh more than 16 pounds (7.26 kg) and have a circumference of no more than 27 inches (68.58 cm). 
• The surface of the ball must not be altered by any chemicals. 

BOWLING BALLS | How It's Made

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• How Much Does a Pin Weigh
• How to Get Oil Out of Bowling Ball
• Best Beginner Bowling Ball

Bowling balls are made of a variety of materials, the most popular being polyester or plastic, urethane and resins. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks that affect how the ball performs. 

Some bowling balls are even designed to mimic the characteristics of other materials, giving bowlers more options to choose from. 

No matter what type of ball you use, it’s important to understand how each one behaves so you can make the best choices for your game.