| Before learning how to play the game, a | | | | is drilled especially to fit the player's |
| bowler will need to identify the equipment | | | | fingers for consistency and comfort. As with |
| needed and know how to use it. They should | | | | any other sport, strength and physical |
| know where to find the necessary equipment, | | | | fitness must be taken into consideration |
| select the right shoe size, choose the right | | | | before playing the game. |
| weight of ball to be used, wear comfortable | | | | |
| clothing appropriate for the game, and return | | | | Aside from the ball, players will need a few |
| the equipment to the proper place after the | | | | other things: |
| game. | | | | |
| | | | - Bowling shoes - these are designed to allow |
| The bowling ball selected must be of the | | | | the player to slide on either foot. The left |
| proper weight and grip; the player's finger | | | | shoe has a sole that allows the right-handed |
| size and the space between holes are | | | | player to use the five-step approach and vice |
| essential for comfort. Most players use the | | | | versa; |
| conventional grip (used in bowling alleys), | | | | |
| after fitting the two middle fingers and | | | | - A bowling bag for the ball; |
| thumb in the holes, they must test its fit by | | | | |
| swinging the ball lightly. Amateurs can find | | | | - A rosin bag, which is used by the players |
| equipment at bowling centers where they can | | | | to insure that the hands are kept dry; and |
| use the equipment for free. However, for | | | | |
| advanced and intermediate players, they will | | | | - A bowling towel, to get rid of oil and |
| want to purchase their own equipment. These | | | | dirt. |
| players use the Semi-fingertip grips where | | | | |
| the thumb and the fore fingers are inserted | | | | To practice, players must make sure that the |
| into the ball's holes | | | | proper equipment is pre-ordered or reserved |
| | | | to ensure proper hand fit and weight. Ask |
| The usual weight of the ball is approximately | | | | for assistance from the pro shop staff at the |
| 14 to 16 lbs. for males and 10 to 14 lbs. for | | | | local bowling centers when choosing your |
| females. Young players are given the 4 to 6 | | | | equipment. Some bowling centers just charge |
| lb. balls. The swing indicates whether or | | | | per game and lend the equipment for free |
| not the weight of the ball is appropriate for | | | | while others rent the equipment. In the long |
| a player. If not, it will cause the shoulder | | | | run, when budget permits, confidence is |
| to dip and the player to be out of balance. | | | | gained when a player owns his equipment. |
| If the swing causes lofting, it could be too | | | | Have fun bowling! |
| light. The speed of the ball when it is | | | | |
| released can also show if it fits the player. | | | | For bowling techniques or bowling information |
| Bowling instructors advise professional | | | | visit The Bowling Coach. |
| bowlers to have their own bowling ball which | | | | |