Every time a bowler throws their first ball in a frame, there is One thing on the bowler's  mind, “Please let it be a Strike.” 

Knocking down all ten pins with a single bowl is the best possible outcome and the goal to which all bowlers aspire. We all go through “beginners luck” at first, but then seem to lose sight of whatever we did to make it happen.

We all look up to the bowler who can get multiple strikes in a game. Thankfully, there are bowling tips and techniques you can learn to replicate that magic moment, and start bowling strike over and over again!

Where do you start?

Right where you stand.  Literally. The key to your bowling success is where you place your foot. Even if you do everything else correctly, if your feet are not where they need to be, the ball won’t go where it needs to either! 

Are you right or left handed? If you are left handed, aim your right second toe at the 1-pin. If you’re right handed, aim your left second toe at the 1-pin. It may feel odd at first, but make no mistake…it works!  Watch the foot placement of pro bowlers and you’ll see they do it too. 

Keeping your proper foot aimed at the head pin allows your shoulders to relax and square up with the foul line, making the ball more likely to go where you want it.

Step up to the swing

You now know where your starting point is. Let’s talk about where we’re going…to your first intentional strike.  Cradle your ball and retract your arm.  You’re just four steps away from bowling your first strike ball!  If you are right handed, step with your right foot, then with your left foot.  As you step with the left foot your ball arcs downward. Take your third step with your right foot as the force of the ball lifts your arm upwards. Releasing the ball and keep your balance by using your left leg as a counterweight.

Releasing the ball

It’s important to release the ball at the proper time. If you release too soon, your ball will start rolling too soon and it won’t have enough energy to knock the pins down. If you release on the upswing, your ball will probably divot the lane at worst, and roll into the gutter at best. The best time to release the ball is just as centrifugal force begins to guide the ball upward.  You’ll feel it in your hand as gravity begins to pull at the weight of the ball. Be sure your wrist is straight and relaxed and that you’re aiming for the strike zone (the little “x” on the lane in between the arrows).

Following through

As you release the ball, remember to Not look at it. Your eyes should remain fixed on your target and your arm should continue its upward arc until after the ball has been released.  It happens all too often when a new bowler pulls his arm back quickly and watches the ball, only to have it roll off course. Don’t let that happen to you. Usually, where your eyes are looking is where your shoulders and feet are facing.  And we know that to bowl a strike, they all need to be facing forward.

By following these simple techniques, you’ll start bowling strikes more consistenly.  You will amaze your friends and beat th competition. You can stand proud knowing that you have mastered the skills required to bowl a strike again and again.