How to Bowl: The Three Basic Shots

Most of us enjoy bowling leisurely. We’ll go whenever it’s someone’s Birthday, we have a free day or have children who have a random, intense yearning to roll a heavy ball toward a bunch of pins.

That being said, the average person doesn’t spend much time perfecting their form. Why would they? They’re not part of a league. But even if you are just bowling with friends recreationally, doesn’t it feel great to crush them competitively?

That’s why we want to share a quick and simple guide on bowling’s three basic shots. Go forth, read and surprise your friends with your awesome bowling skills!

The straight bowling technique is self explanatory. The bowler “throws” (or rolls) the ball straight. This is the simplest and most popular technique for beginners. However, you want to aim for the space between the one and three pins if you are right-handed and the one and two pins if you are left-handed. Do not, we repeat, do NOT aim for the pins straight on—you’ll create a split!

The hook bowling technique is a bit more advanced, so use this when you really want to impress your friends. Also self-explanatory, this technique starts with the ball traveling straight and then creating a hook right into the pocket (between pins one and three for righties and one and two for lefties). Those who are right-handed will want to start out on the right side of the lane, and vice versa for those who are left-handed.

While this technique is much more effective for bowling a higher game, it is also much more difficult. But seeing the look on your friends’ faces when you hit strike after strike will be so worth it.

Last but not least is the backup bowling technique. This technique is certainly not for everyone, because it twists the hand and wrist in an unnatural way. It’s not a recommended technique if it feels weird to you—and especially if you are just trying to impress your friends. However, some find it more natural than other shots.

Basically, this is the reverse of the hook bowling technique. Those who are right-handed will want to start on the left side of the lane, and vice versa for left-handed bowlers. The righties will want to hook into the one and two pin pocket, and the lefties will want to hook into the one and three pins.

Master any or all of these shots at Zone 28! While you might not be a pro bowler or part of a league, you will still have a blast knowing the game a bit better. Everyone has more fun when they win!