How to Approach the Foul Line When Bowling

Bowling is a fantastic sport that combines accuracy with athleticism. But while many people focus on the actually bowling of the ball, it's the approach to the lane that can really improve your score. Here are some tips on how to approach the foul line when bowling so you'll have the right balance before you bowl.

Things You'll Need

  • Bowling alley
  • Bowling ball
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the indicators behind the foul line. There is a set of indicators at 10 feet and also at 15 feet behind the lane.

    • 2

      Stand on the foul line and take the standard 4 1/2-step approach heading away from the lane. Since everyone has slightly longer or shorter legs, you want to find your own starting position. Start at the foul line, take your steps and see where you land. It will most likely be between the set of indicators ahead of the lane.

    • 3

      Align yourself with the correct indicator for the pins you are trying to knock over. The head pin aligns with the center indicator. The pin to the right of the center aligns with the 3 pin and the dot to the right of that aligns with the 6 pin. Moving to the left of the center dot, the next pin aligns with the 2 pin and the pin next to that aligns with the 4 pin. For the first ball of the frame, you will want to align yourself with the center dot. For the second ball, adjust accordingly to which remaining pins you need to knock down.

    • 4

      Approach the foul line using your 4 1/2-step approach, which you marked off. Double-check your position in accordance with the indicators on the lane.