How To Throw A Strike In Bowling Part 3
Written By: Rich Carubba | Written On: Monday, March 6, 2017 | Updated On: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Click Here for Part One
Click Here for Part Two
How to Throw a Strike in Bowling - Part 3
Learning how to throw a strike in bowling is essential for improving your overall scores. Whether you're a beginner, a casual player, or even an experienced bowler with an average around 135-140, delivering the ball into the pocket consistently increases your chances of striking. This third and final part of the series focuses on:
- Pocket Location
- Initial Alignment
- Alignment Adjustments
Parts 1 and 2 covered pocket location and initial alignment. Now, let’s explore alignment adjustments.
Understanding Alignment Adjustments
When warming up, aim for the second arrow as your primary target. Right-handed bowlers should position their bowling shoe instep over the 20-board (center board) and target the second arrow (10-board). Left-handed bowlers should mirror this alignment.
If you roll a straight ball, adjust your stance slightly to the right, perhaps placing your feet on the 15-board while keeping your aim on the second arrow. If you hook the ball significantly, move left from the 20-board based on your hook strength while still targeting the second arrow.
Making Adjustments
Once your ball is consistently delivered at a steady speed but isn't hitting the pocket, make systematic adjustments. One of the most effective techniques is the "parallel adjustment system," which involves:
- Moving your feet two boards left or right.
- Adjusting your target one board in the same direction.
For example, if your shot is missing right, move your feet two boards right and shift your target one board right. If the ball still misses, repeat the adjustment until your ball reaches the pocket.
If the ball hooks too much and misses left, move two boards left and shift your target one board left. Repeating this adjustment will open your angle and create a more direct path to the pocket.
Lane Condition Adaptation
Lane conditions change throughout the game due to oil displacement. In league play, you may need to adjust your approach within a single game. Be ready to modify your alignment as needed.
Fine-tune your adjustments using smaller increments like 1:1 or larger ones like 3:1 for more significant corrections. The standard 2:1 adjustment works best in typical house conditions.
Practicing Adjustments
To master adjustments, practice systematically:
- Move 2:1 right and roll a few shots.
- Continue adjusting in 2:1 increments until aiming at the first arrow.
- Repeat in the opposite direction until aiming at the third arrow.
Although these adjustments may not always result in strikes, they will build confidence in your ability to adapt during competition.
Two-Handed Bowling Techniques
Two-handed bowlers generate higher rev rates, requiring different alignment strategies. Key techniques include:
- Standing further left (for right-handed bowlers) to create a sharper entry angle.
- Using an aggressive release to increase revolutions and maintain control.
- Making quicker adjustments since high-rev shots react more to lane conditions.
Since two-handed bowlers create more friction, lane oil patterns break down faster, requiring continuous alignment tweaks.
Conclusion
Mastering alignment adjustments is crucial for consistent strikes. Here’s a concise breakdown of key takeaways:
- Start with a reliable alignment: Aim for the second arrow and position your feet accordingly.
- Use the parallel adjustment system: Shift feet two boards and adjust target one board in the same direction.
- Adapt to lane conditions: Be ready to adjust as oil patterns change during play.
- Practice in all conditions: Get comfortable adjusting angles and learning lane behavior.
- For two-handed bowlers: Use aggressive releases and expect frequent adjustments.
Bowling success relies on proper alignment, accurate targeting, and the ability to adjust efficiently. By practicing these principles, you will significantly improve your ability to hit the pocket consistently and maximize your strike potential.
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