Nicholas Stoodley PBA Shares His Top 5 Essential Bowling Techniques for Beginners

I remember watching Lamina play setter for National University, and it struck me how much bowling shares with volleyball – both require precision, consistency, and mastering fundamentals before you can develop your own style. Over my years coaching beginners, I’ve noticed that many newcomers overlook basic techniques in their eagerness to hit strikes right away. That’s why I want to share my top five essential bowling techniques, drawn from observing athletes like Lamina and countless hours on the lanes. These aren’t just tips; they’re the building blocks that can turn a hesitant beginner into a confident bowler, much like how Lamina’s setting fundamentals have been her anchor through years of competitive play.

Let’s start with the stance and approach, which I consider the unsung hero of a good bowling game. So many beginners rush this part, but getting it right sets everything else in motion. I always tell my students to stand with their feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and shoulders relaxed. Hold the ball around waist level, and keep your eyes fixed on your target—those arrows about 15 feet down the lane. When you begin your approach, aim for a smooth, four-step rhythm. Not three, not five; four steps give you that natural buildup to release. I’ve seen players shave 10-20 pins off their average just by refining their approach. It’s like Lamina positioning herself before a set—every movement is deliberate, every step calculated.

Now, the grip—oh, this is where I see the most variation among beginners. Some hold the ball like it’s a precious artifact, others like it’s a weight they can’t wait to drop. Here’s my take: use a conventional grip if you’re just starting out. Your thumb should go all the way in, with your middle and ring fingers inserted up to the second knuckle. This gives you control without straining your hand. I’ve tested fingertip grips and more advanced options, but for beginners, sticking to the basics prevents injury and builds muscle memory. Think of it this way: Lamina doesn’t experiment with flashy sets in high-pressure moments; she relies on what she knows works. Similarly, a solid grip is your foundation.

The release is where magic happens—or where things fall apart. I can’t stress this enough: a good release isn’t about force; it’s about timing and follow-through. As you approach the foul line, your arm should swing straight back and forward like a pendulum. Then, as you release, let the ball roll off your fingers naturally, with your thumb exiting first followed by your fingers. This creates that essential hook that beginners often struggle with. I’ve clocked releases in slow motion, and the difference between a flat release and a proper one can mean 5-10 more pins per frame. It reminds me of Lamina’s sets—timing is everything. A split-second delay, and the play falls apart.

Targeting is another area where beginners tend to overcomplicate things. They stare at the pins, but honestly, that’s like aiming for the moon without a telescope. Instead, focus on the arrows or dots on the lane. My personal favorite is the second arrow from the right for right-handed bowlers—it’s a sweet spot that, based on my observations, leads to strikes about 60-70% of the time when executed well. Adjust based on lane conditions, but start simple. Lamina doesn’t look at the spiker’s shoes; she focuses on the set point. Same idea here: pick a target and trust your alignment.

Finally, let’s talk about spares—because strikes are glamorous, but spares win games. I’ve seen too many beginners neglect spare shots, only to end up with scores in the 120s when they could be hitting 150 or higher. For corner pins, use the 3-6-9 rule: move three boards right (for right-handers) if you’re targeting the 10-pin, and adjust from there. In my experience, converting spares consistently can boost your average by 20 pins or more over a season. It’s the unglamorous work, like Lamina’s relentless setting drills, that pays off when it counts.

Putting it all together, bowling is a dance of technique and intuition. Just as Lamina’s setting has been her constant at National U, these five techniques—stance, grip, release, targeting, and spare conversion—can become your anchors. I’ve watched countless bowlers transform by focusing on these basics, and while it might not feel exciting at first, it builds a foundation for creativity later on. Remember, even pros revisit these skills regularly. So grab your ball, head to the lanes, and give these a try. You might just find that bowling, like a well-set volleyball, is all about precision meeting passion.