How to Roll a Bowling Ball Properly

*These instructions on how to roll a bowling ball provide guidance for individuals seeking to improve their bowling technique, outlining the
necessary steps, equipment, and techniques tailored for both novice and experienced bowlers. To follow these instructions properly, you’ll
need essential equipment such as bowling shoes and a properly fitted bowling ball. *

DISCLAIMER
Bowling is an enjoyable activity, but it involves physical exertion and the use of heavy equipment. As with any physical activity, there are
inherent risks involved. Please take note of the following safety precautions:

 Children: If children are participating, they should be supervised by responsible adults. Instruct them on proper bowling etiquette
and safety, and ensure they understand the importance of staying within designated areas.


 Physical Conditions: Individuals with underlying medical conditions or physical limitations should consult with a healthcare
professional before engaging in strenuous activities like bowling. It is important to know your physical limits and adjust
accordingly to prevent injury.

By using these instructions, you acknowledge that bowling can involve risks, especially when children are involved or if you have medical
conditions or physical limitations. You are responsible for your safety and the safety of those under your supervision. Please exercise
caution, provide proper guidance, and consider your physical condition when participating in this activity.

Step 1: Select the Right Bowling Ball:

1. Choose a bowling ball that is the right weight for you, typically between 10-16 pounds.
2. Ensure the finger holes fit your hand comfortably.

Step 2: Stand Correctly:

 1. Position yourself on the approach with your feet together, facing the pins.
2. Hold the ball with your bowling hand, supported by your non-bowling hand from
underneath.
3. Make sure to keep your body upright and balanced to maintain stability during the
approach.

Figure 1: Ideal way of standing with a bowling

ball before the approach.

Step 3: Choose Your Bowling Approach

 There are two common bowling approaches to consider;consider: the four-step and
five-step approaches.

Four-Step Approach:
[1.] Begin with your right foot forward (left foot back) if you are right-handed.
[2.] Begin with your left foot forward (right foot back) if you are left-handed.Place your
dominant foot forward and non-dominant foot back to set up the approach.
1.[3.] Keep your knees slightly bent for balance.
[4.] Hold the ball at waist level, with your non-dominantbowling hand on the side of the
ball and your bowling dominant hand behind it.
 Figure 2: How the Four-Step approach is done with a right-handed bowler as they are moving
from the start to the release while following through with their roll.

Five-Step Approach:
1. Place your dominant foot forward and non-dominant foot back to set up the approach.
2. Start with your non-dominant foot (left foot for right-handed bowlers, right foot for
left-handed bowlers) forward.
[2.] Take a small step forward with your non-dominant foot, followed by a larger step
forward with your dominant foot.
3. Continue the approach with the remaining steps as in the four-step approach.

Figure 3: How the Five-Step approach is done with a right-handed bowler as they are moving
from the start to the release while following through their roll.

Step 4: Begin Your Approach:

1. Take your chosen number of steps toward the foul line while maintaining a steady
pace and rhythm.
 2. Keep your eyes on the pins as you move toward the foul line.

Figure 4: Foul Line located right in front of a bowling alley lane.

Step 5: Swing and Release:

1. As you approach, begin your backswing with the ball.
2. Keep the swing smooth and controlled, allowing the ball to reach its highest point and
start descending.
3. Release the ball as your sliding foot approaches the foul line for accuracy.

NOTE: Bowlers should avoid swinging the ball too high, as it can lead to loss of control.
Bowlers should make sure to find a controlled and comfortable backswing height.

Figure 5: Right-handed bowler approaching the foul line

with his sliding foot in the front and is about to release.

Step 6: Follow Through and Stances:
1. After releasing the ball, your non-sliding leg should ideally be positioned slightly
behind and to the side of your sliding leg, depending on your dominant hand (right or
left).
2. Your body should naturally rotate toward your target as you release the ball, and your
balance should shift toward your dominant side.
3. Extend your non-bowling arm for balance.
4. As you release the ball, your bowling arm should continue its upward motion.
5. Extend your bowling arm fully, with your hand reaching toward or above shoulder
height.
6. Keep your wrist firm and in a natural position.
7. Allow your fingers to finish pointing towards your target or the pins.

TIP: Keeping your head steady and eyes focused on the target during the entire
approach and release can help maintain accuracy.

Figure 6: Right-handed bowler following through on the release while

balancing himself with his non-sliding leg behind him and arm outstretched.

Step 7: Watch Your Shot:

 1. Keep your eyes on the pins as the ball travels down the lane.
2. Observe the ball’s path and aim for the pocket (between the 1 and 3 pins for right-
handed bowlers, or between the 1 and 2 pins for left-handed bowlers).

Figure 7: Standard ten-pin bowling layout and where the pockets are located.

Step 8: Evaluate and Adjust:

1. After your shot, assess the results. Did you hit your target? How did the pins react?
2. Use this feedback to make any necessary adjustments to your stance, approach, or
release for improved accuracy and pin action.

TIP: Bowlers can write down notes in a journal, including what worked and what did not. This
can be a valuable tool for self-improvement.

Step 9: Commit to Practice:

1. Consistent practice is key to mastering bowling.
2. Join a local league and seek guidance from experienced bowlers or instructors.
3. Repetition reinforces your technique and builds consistency.
4. Embrace the journey of improvement and celebrate your progress.
NOTE: For Beginners, it is advisable to focus on a straight delivery initially. Avoid intentionally
curving the ball until you have mastered the basics of rolling a bowling ball properly.