Bowling Timing And Tempo

By: bowlingball.com, Originally Posted: 8/5/17; Updated: 9/24/2021

Bowling timing and tempo can interrelate but remain independent of one another.

The short of it is that you can bowl at any pace you wish and retain your same trigger movement of starting your bowling ball into the swing cycle relative to your steps.

If you decide to pick up your pace (tempo of movements) during your approach, you can still retain the same split second timing sequence except that your swing movements will be a little quicker than when bowling at a slower tempo or pace.

If you are bowling well using your present timing sequence, you can still do the same at a slightly slower or faster walking and swing pace.

The best way to develop good timing is work with an instructor to make sure you avoid either holding the bowling ball back before entering your swing cycle or getting the ball into the swing far too early to best synchronize with your steps.

Since each bowler has a different “internal motor,” find a comfortable tempo to walk and swing your ball so you can repeat consistent deliveries.

Once you accomplish this consistent pace of movements, you can then speed up or slow your pace slightly as circumstances require.

In any case, don’t change your timing sequence because you adjust your pace of movements.

Good timing allow you to move fluidly regardless of the pace at which you bowl.

Avoid getting overly fast or too slow where you drag and control your swing freedom when altering your bowling tempo.

The strategy is to establish a sound pre-shot routine by taking a moment before stepping onto the approach and visualize the pace you wish to move and precisely focus on your aim point.



A visualization process helps you organize your thoughts and feel the movements of your steps and swing before actually doing so.

On the practice lanes, work on developing a reliable timing trigger.

Begin moving your bowling ball into the swing at the same relative point gauged to your first step.

Once you establish a good timing sequence, then seek a reliable pace of movements with your steps and swing so you develop both accuracy and repeatability.

In competition, you must trust your movements. The mental powers you engage when using the pre-shot routine allows you to trust your physical body movements.

Bowling timing and tempo are important parts of your game.