Bowling is not as easy as it looks and this is never more evident than when watching beginners bowl for the first few times. The ball invariably heads straight for the gutter. There are a few basic tips for bowling that will help beginners keep the ball on the lane and ease the frustration of gutter balls.

Tips for bowling – Grips
Let’s start with grips. Bowling balls have a standard 3 holes. One hole is slightly apart from the other two which are spaced nearer. The two holes are for your ring and middle finger and the single hole for your thumb. So grip your ball, the thumb goes all the way through the hole and the fingers goes until the second knuckle (finger knuckle). The rest of the fingers extend comfortably over the ball surface.

Having the proper ball can make all the difference in how well you bowl. The ball must not be too heavy or you won’t be able to control it upon release. The finger holes must not be too snug, or too far apart so you can’t grip the ball. If you don’t have your own custom made ball, be prepared to invest time trying out available balls at the bowling center until you find one that is the best fit for your hand.

Tips for bowling – Form
Form defines approach and release. Bad form results in bad delivery and awkward releases. Ok, start with the proper gripping. Choose your starting distance. Refer to the double rows of dots some distance from the foul line. Use this to measure your approach; ultimately you want your final step to end within a foot from the foul line to optimize your throws. Now stand up straight. Wherever your grip is, the other hand is used to support the ball. If you’re going straight, put your support at the top of the ball. If you’re going for a hook, have your support at the side slightly tilting the ball.

The proper starting form would be: stand straight, feet together pointing forward, knees bent very slightly, bowling arm elbow kept close to the hip and the wrist gripping the ball firm and in a ready delivery. If you are ready, begin your approach. It really helps if you have kept a close eye on how other players start their approach. Don’t rush it; take your time to adjust your timing. Keep in mind, approach and release.

Tips for bowling – Swing
The trickiest part is the swing; also the defining factor between beginners and skilled bowlers. As you start the approach, try to mentally set a four step approach. That way, you can anticipate where you will end. As you begin the steps, swing your gripping arm backwards slowly. Do the backward swing in the junction of your three steps. On the fourth step, begin your release. The fourth step is done effectively with a slide, leg bent low and your other leg left behind stretched from the last step. As you complete the sliding fourth step, swing your gripping arm towards your target, stooping slightly to release and roll the ball. Release the ball when it is close to the floor so you don’t bounce the ball on the lane.

Finally, always observe the other players’ forms. By doing this, you will gain enough information on how to execute yours.

Ultimately, bowling is a sport that must be learned by doing. No amount of reading can replace getting out there and actually rolling the ball. If you have a strong desire to learn the sport properly, check with the bowling center in your city. Chances are they have lessons for beginners that are taught by seasoned bowling professionals who will have you in good form in no time.

Summary: Important tips for bowling include choosing the correct ball, having good form, and executing the swing.