How to Know Where to Stand When Bowling

Determining where to stand for you bowling stance is something you should do every time you play. Each alley is different and lane conditions at the same alley can vary from one night to the next. You need to change the place that you start to accommodate the lane you are playing on.

Instructions

    • 1

      Throw a practice ball before you begin bowling. Watch where the ball goes to determine the condition of the lane. If the ball goes straight there is no need to adjust your starting position. If the lane is dry your ball will hook to the left if you are right handed and hook to the right if you are left handed. If the lane is oily the ball will skid and slide more. The ball will miss the pins to the right if you are right handed and to the left if you are left handed.

    • 2

      Move your starting point on a dry lane to the left if you are right handed and to the right if you are left handed. This change in position will offset the hook caused by the dry lane.

    • 3

      Step to the right for your start on an oily lane if you are right handed and to the left if you are left handed. All bowlers should keep their shoulders closed and arms close to their body on an oily lane.

    • 4

      Take advantage of the lane conditions that are present. Play a straight game when the lanes are dry and play a hook game when the lanes are oily.