How to Determine a Bowler's Handicap

Amateur bowling leagues and tournaments implement a bowling handicap structure to allow amateur bowlers to compete with more experienced bowlers. The handicap is the individual bowler's percentage of the difference between your average and the basis average of the league. If you are new to the bowling world, do not fret. Calculating your handicap is simple and can be done prior to the start of the league. Or the league will appoint you an average handicap until your scores can be reflected into your handicap.

Instructions

    • 1

      Call ahead to the league or tournament you want to bowl in, and ask for the basis average and percentage factor. These numbers will assist in calculating your handicap for the league. The basis score is determined by the league and is typically higher than the average of most bowlers within the league. Most basis averages range between 200 and 220; most percentages are between 90 percent and 100 percent.

    • 2

      Bowl three games prior to the start of your league to gain an average score. If you have never bowled before, you may want to use these games as a practice. On average, newer bowlers will have a higher handicap then a more experienced bowler, so do not fret about low game scores and high handicap numbers. You will need your average score of the games. Calculate this number by adding the amount of total pins divided by the number of games you played.

    • 3

      Subtract your average from the league basis, and multiply the number by the handicap percentage. Presume the league basis number is 220 pins and the percentage factor is 90 percent; in addition, assume your average is 120. In this example, your handicap would be (220 -- 120) x .90 = 90. If you have a fraction, then round up or down to achieve your number.

    • 4

      Apply this handicap number at the end of every game of bowling for the league. If your bowling game was 127, then add 90 for a game total of 217.