Combining strategy and form, bowling is a fun and challenging sport. But if you can’t seem to keep the ball out of the gutter, you might think the game isn’t for you. Rest assured that many players have this experience—and many can overcome the hurdle with the right approach. If you’re looking to improve your technique, here are five steps you can follow to achieve a gutter-free game.  

5 Tips to Improve Your Aim 

1. Size It Smart

When a bowling ball is too light, it won’t generate enough force to speed through the pins. When it’s too heavy, it’s likely to shift to the side and roll into the gutter. To keep the ball straight, you should choose a weight that you can comfortably swing. If you’re not sure where to start, try practicing with a ball that’s about 10% of your body weight.

2. Pick the Perfect Position

How you hold the ball before your throw will depend on your skill. Fast throwers won’t need much room for their swing, so they should hold the ball between the waist and thigh. Slower bowlers, however, should start by holding the ball at chest height and allow it to swing back and forward like a pendulum.

3. Align Your Aim  

Due to the distance between you and the pins, it can be difficult to match your release up with your target. To do so, line your shot up with a directional arrow on the lane pointing toward your target. How you align with the arrow will depend on your specific bowling style, so you may need to make minor adjustments to your positioning on the first couple tries.

4. Watch Your Wrist

While there are many ways to hold your wrist during a swing, beginners should keep theirs straight. With this approach, the backside of your wrist will be aligned with your arm when you swing. If you need to adjust your direction, try slightly rotating your wrist toward the inside of the lane.

5. Relax and Release

Letting go of the ball with too much muscle force will cause it to roll heavily and possibly towards the gutter. Instead, you should let the momentum of your swing end with a slight push from the heel of your hand. To keep your shot on target, it’s best to release when the ball is at the very bottom of the swing—or when it is most parallel against the lane.

Whether you want to practice your swing or are ready to show off your strikes, All Star Lanes & Banquets is the best spot for bowling in La Crosse, WI. Using their well-maintained lanes, you’ll be able to improve your form and master the game. You can even enjoy classic comfort food at the in-house grill and bar.  To learn more about these amenities, visit this entertainment hotspot online or call (608) 788-7827.