5 Helpful Tips for Beginner Bowlers

Are you looking to try your hand (no pun intended 😅) at bowling in the new year? Have you wondered how best to learn but are not quite sure where to begin or who to turn to?

Well, look no further! We’ve compiled what we believe are 5 crucial tips to know for beginner bowlers who are looking to get more involved in the sport.

1) Consider Your Commitment

If you are serious about wanting to level up your game, it might be worth joining your local bowling league! League bowling is the best way to not only stay consistent with the sport, but to also improve drastically because you’re spending more time with like-minded athletes who are eager to share their knowledge.

It is a common misconception that you have to be a certain skill level to participate in league bowling – this is absolutely not the case! Most leagues operate using a handicap system (like in golf) so that competition is leveled, and all bowlers can join and enjoy.

2) The Importance of the Right Ball

Whether you’re planning on bowling just for fun, or shooting to be part of an organized tournament, finding the right ball is of paramount importance.

A ball that properly fits your hand not only feels better, but it feels lighter, thereby allowing you to handle the weight more seamlessly than an ill-fitting alternative.

Strain, due to a poor fit or excess weight, is one of the main reasons why people encounter injury when using standard balls at bowling centers, and can be disheartening when considering long-term play. During your visit, do your best to go with the option that feels right (all ego aside!) even if it’s lighter than you might have anticipated.

3) Don’t Aim For the Pins!

Contrary to popular belief, you should not be aiming for the pins when you line up your shot!

Following the dots on the approach and the arrows on the lane is actually what enables pro bowlers to throw strike after strike over the course of their games (and careers). Like a built-in guidance system, the layout of the lane gives you all the information you need to make adjustments as necessary and kick some serious butt.

4) Knowledge is Greater Than Knick-Knacks

There are many different doo-dads and thingamabobs that are advertised and sold to people looking to improve their bowling game, promising to ‘fix’ whatever problems you may have. While a custom drilled ball and a wrist guard can be extremely helpful when acquired and utilized properly, more often than not, it’s not necessary when you’re in the beginning stages of your bowling career.

Instead, seek out instructors, bowling clubs, or pro-bowling shops in your area to learn from people who are deeply immersed in the sport and culture. You’ll learn so much more talking to other people than you will looking at the next best thing to buy on Amazon.

5) Free Information Online!

Last but not least, do not underestimate the power of the internet! From YouTube videos, to TikTok reels, to Reddit forums, to blogs and newsletters (like this one), there is truly an endless amount of information and resources at your disposal.

Search up tips, product reviews, technical discussions, and opinion pieces, and use that information to your advantage the next time you stop by the bowling alley. You never know what gems will stick until you try it out!

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