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Hearing the smack of the pins as you bowl a strike is almost as satisfying as your friends’ applause afterward. While knocking down all 10 pins at once is sometimes luck, most strikes are attributable to skill and forethought. Here are a few tips to step up your bowling game. 

4 Tips to Get More Strikes 

1. Choose the Perfect Bowling Ball 

Adult bowlers typically use a ball that weighs between 10 and 16 pounds. Balls on the heavier end of that range might provide the most power, but that’s not necessarily what you need. A lighter ball is easier to control, and its impact will make the pins fall into each other rather than fly upward. 

2. Take the Right Approach 

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Once you have your bowling ball in hand, take four steps, starting with the foot opposite your throwing hand. Facing the lane straight-on, walk a straight line toward the lane, slow and steady with your eyes on the target. If you’re right-handed, your target arrow will be the second from the right, while left-handed bowlers can aim for the second from the left. The second-to-last step you take is known as the “power step," which helps you deliver the ball from the downswing as you prepare for your final slide. 

3. Mind Your Posture

Ensure your posture is upright, with a slight bend in the knees and feet slightly apart. Keep your throwing arm relaxed, but straight and close to your body during the backswing.

4. Release at the Bottom of the Swing 

Now you’re ready to complete your shot. On the downswing, release the ball at the very bottom of your swing near your feet for optimal control. Releasing it too early can diminish velocity, while throwing too late can cause the ball to bounce.

Your goal is to hit the pocket, or the space between the first pin and the three-pin for a right-handed player, or the two-pin if you’re left-handed. Adding spin to your roll will help knock down all 10 pins. A right-hander's thumb should be rotated to the 10 o'clock position and a left-hander's to the 2 o'clock position during the release.

 

Whether you’re looking to try bowling for the first time or are a seasoned player, stop by All Star Lanes & Banquets in La Crosse, WI, for your next game. This bowling alley and banquet hall is the perfect spot to hang out, take a date, put on a special event, or join a league. Call (608) 788-7827 to make a reservation, or visit the website to learn more about the restaurant and bowling alley. 

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