How To Bowl A Strike
For many people, bowling is not just about swinging your arms and releasing a ball to knock down the odd-shaped pins at the other end of the alley. It’s a disciplined game, which, without proper position, aim and stance, would be very difficult to win. Playing bowling is fun and exciting, but whether you may be a professional or an amateur, there’s one thing you always aim for: a strike.
If you bowl a perfect strike, you get to show off and your companions will all admire you. Unfortunately, knocking down all those pins isn’t as easy as it looks. There are several important tactics you have to remember.
What You’ll Need
Bowling ball
Bowling alley
Pair of bowling shoes (you can buy your own or rent from the bowling alley)
Powder bag for your bowling ball
Wrist support (helpful if you’re carrying a heavy ball)
Here’s How
Begin with your stance. Your foot position is very important to a successful bowl. Even if you do all these steps properly, but your feet are not in the right position, you still won’t hit a strike. If you are right-handed, start with your left foot, aiming your left second toe towards the 1-pin. If you’re left-handed, aim the second toe on your right foot towards the 1-pin. You might feel odd doing this at first, but with some practice, you’ll get used to it.
bowling strike
Take a deep breath, to calm yourself. Relax your shoulders, and square up with the foul line. Don’t twist your torso, or you’ll cause inaccuracy.
Cradle your ball, then retract your arm. If you’re right-handed, step first with your right foot, then your left foot. As your left foot steps forward, arc the ball downwards. Take your third step using your right foot, as the ball’s force lifts your arm upwards.
When you swing the ball, back and forward, make sure you do it in a straight line, just perpendicular to the foul line. Don’t throw the ball “side-arm” or swing it around your body.
Don’t release the ball just yet. Releasing the ball at the right time is another important factor when bowling a strike. When you release too soon, the ball will roll too soon, and will lack energy to knock down the pins. If you release while on the upswing, it’s likely the ball will either divot the lane or roll in the gutter.
The best time to let the ball go is just when the centrifugal force starts to guide the ball upwards. Feel the gravity in your hands as it starts to pull at the weight of the ball. Make sure the wrist is relaxed and straight, and that you’re aiming for the strike zone. Then, release the ball. When you do, keep your balance using your left leg, as a counterweight.
Don’t look at the ball as you release it. Fix your eyes on the target, while your arm continues its upward arc, even after the ball has been released. Your eyes should be looking at where the shoulders and feet are pointing.
Additional Bowling Tips
Make sure your leg doesn’t get hit when you’re about to release the ball.
Use a bowling ball that weights the just right for you. A ball that’s the wrong weight will either be too tough or soft for you.
Maintain a relaxed and composed attitude while readying for the strike. A good attitude reaps better results.
You don’t have to be a pro-bowler to bowl a perfect strike. Try these steps above. Your competition will be intimidated and your friends and teammates will be amazed. Keep practicing, to always hit a perfect strike!