It could be a random Friday night or a weekly event; with your family or with your friends during any month of the year...it's bowling! Bowling is an American pastime and has been a great 'fun' family event or an escape for beer drinking father's wanting to get away from their family for an evening. Either way, many people are too embarrassed to lace up the rented shoe's because they don't know how to properly throw the ball. Well no fear, here is a simple guide to have you throwing strikes in no time.

First, do not use the house balls. Instead head to your local pro shop and get the right ball for you. The reason for this is simple; your new ball has not been dinged, bumped and scratched up beyond repair and also allows the most comfortable grip to be offered as the holes are drilled specifically for your hand. This gives you, by far, the best chance for throwing a tight curve that mathematically increases your odds of blasting all ten pins. Also, with hundreds to choose from, your ball exterior will look extra sweet compared to the ugly and worn out house balls.

Second, start standing straight with your left foot slightly forward. Cradle the ball between your belt buckle (or wear your belt buckle would be) and your chest with your non-swinging hand. This type of 'open posture' nudges your roll just wide enough to arc in from the outside of the lane. Also, it is known that most good bowlers grip the ball with only the tips of their forefingers but this is a matter of feel and personal preference.

Next, the first step is the toughest. Start on your right foot and shift the ball's mass into your step. As you approach and swing use the lane's arrows to visualize an arching path right to the sweet spot which is just right of the headpin.

Finally, send your new ball spiraling by turning your wrist counter-clockwise (until you reach a handshake position) at the last second. The combination of momentum and spin should produce a hook.

This will take some practice but you will, with time and patience, become a better bowler.

Learn more about this author, Matthew Soo.
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