Rules of Courtesy & Safety for Bowling

The bowling alley is a fun place for people of all ages. To keep bowling alleys running and properly maintained, a player should abide by some unwritten rules. These rules are kept in place to ensure the best time, safest conditions and prevent damage to the alley.

  1. Right Lane

    • When you approach for a turn, it might be distracting for yourself and other bowlers playing to the right of you. To avoid this, let the bowler to the right go before you. If everybody understands this, then there will be no miscommunication as every bowler lets the next bowler take his turn.

    Proper Shoes

    • Wearing bowling shoes is not just for an ugly fashion statement. The shoes keep the bowling surface smooth and provide bowlers with the best grip for the most accurate shot.

    Patience

    • Patience is the key to keeping lanes running and in order. A bowler should never bowl until the pin-guard gate has been lifted. If you bowl too early, the guard might not go up and could get hit by the ball. Bowling pranks like rolling multiple balls at once, flinging the ball through the air and rolling other types of balls should also be avoided because of damage issues.

    Taking Turns

    • You should only approach the lanes when it is your turn to bowl. If there are a lot of people by the bowling area, balls could accidentally hit people and multiple interferences can be caused. Stay back and give each bowler as much room as possible during a turn.

    Ball Return

    • Always be cautious around the ball-return machines. Never stick your hands out while waiting for a ball. Do not overcrowd the ball return or balls could get damaged and knocked off the machine. Your fingers might also get stuck between returned balls if you try to grab one too early.