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