Looking for a family-friendly festive activity? Bowl your way through December!
The goal is fun; lace up those shoes, pick your ball, and get ready for a weekend full of strikes, spares, and unforgettable memories.
If you are looking for family-friendly games this December, make bowling part of your festive season.
Bowling is more than just knocking down pins; it is about understanding the rules, mastering techniques, and enjoying every moment on the lanes.
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As one of the world’s oldest sports, it traces its origins back over 5,000 years. Its earliest form was played in ancient Egypt, where archaeologists discovered balls and pins in a child’s tomb.
Later, variations of the game appeared in ancient Germany as part of religious rituals, and in medieval Europe, where it became a popular outdoor pastime.
Over centuries, bowling evolved into the indoor lane game we know today, eventually spreading to America in the 19th century, where standardised rules and modern bowling alleys were developed.
Today, it remains a global sport enjoyed by people of all ages.
How to play
Modern bowling uses ten pins, arranged in a triangular formation at the end of a 60-foot lane. Players roll a ball from behind the foul line to knock them down.
Balls vary in weight from 6 to 16 pounds (approximately 2.7 kg to 7.3 kg), and players choose one that fits their grip and comfort.
A game consists of ten frames, with each player getting up to two rolls per frame to clear the pins, aiming for strikes and spares.
A strike occurs when all ten pins are knocked down with the first roll, while a spare happens when the remaining pins are cleared with the second roll. Scoring includes bonus points: strikes earn points from your next two rolls, and spares from your next one.
With its clear rules, precise measurements, and simple but skilful techniques, bowling continues to be a favourite recreational activity and competitive sport worldwide.
Step 1: Get started, shoes
Most alleys provide bowling shoes for safety and performance; select a pair in your correct size.
Bowling shoes are designed with smooth soles to allow you to slide slightly when releasing the ball, preventing slips and protecting the lanes.
Bowling pins at the Playza, Prestige Mall in Woodly Estate along Ngong Road. (Photo: Margaret Wanjiru)
Comfortable seating is often available while you get ready, making it easy to relax before your turn. Order food and drinks.
Step 2: Choose the right ball
One of the most important decisions is selecting the right ball.
Balls vary in weight; always pick one that feels heavy enough to knock down pins but light enough for control.
Insert your thumb fully into the larger hole, and your middle and ring fingers into the other holes. This grip allows you to release the ball smoothly and aim accurately.
Step 3: Understanding the lanes and rules
Before stepping up, note the foul line at the start of the lane, often marked in black. Crossing it results in no score, so keep your steps behind the line.
For beginners, practice rails, also known as bumpers, are a must-try to learn how to prevent the ball from falling into the gutter.
Step 4: One round explained
A round in bowling consists of each player rolling the ball twice per frame across ten frames.
Your score accumulates as you aim for strikes (all pins down in one roll) or spares (all pins down in two rolls).
Observing other players, adjusting your aim, and understanding your strengths are all part of improving your game.
Step 5: Perfecting your technique
Whether you are right- or left-handed, technique matters.
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and swing the ball in a smooth motion.
Aim for the pocket (between pins 1 and 3 for right-handers, 1 and 2 for left-handers). You can roll the ball up to 10 times per session, giving you plenty of practice to improve accuracy and confidence.
Step 6: Age and accessibility
Bowling is open to almost all ages, with a minimum age requirement of six years, especially with practice rails in place.
Plan your visit depending on your budget and schedule.
Have Fun!
Always warm up before playing, stretch your arms and legs to prevent strain and improve performance.
The goal is fun: lace up those shoes, pick your ball, and get ready for a weekend full of strikes, spares, and unforgettable memories.
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