Bowling tips to improve your game from PBA Champion Kyle Troup
Bowling is one of those sports that looks simple from the outside. Roll the ball, knock down the pins, repeat. But once you start paying attention to technique, scoring, and strategy, you quickly realize there’s more to the game than meets the eye.
That’s one of the themes explored in the HBO documentary Born to Bowl, which highlights the athletes and stories behind professional bowling. The series follows players competing at the highest level while showing the dedication and skill required to succeed in the sport.
One of those players is PBA Major Champion Kyle Troup, known for both his personality and his precision on the lanes. In a series of instructional videos, Troup breaks down some of the fundamentals that help bowlers improve their performance.
Whether you're brand new to bowling or looking to sharpen your skills, these tips can help the next time you step onto the lanes at AMF.
Start by understanding how scoring works
Learning how scoring works is one of the easiest ways to improve your awareness during a game.
A standard bowling game includes 10 frames, with bowlers receiving two rolls per frame. The tenth frame has a special rule: if you throw a strike or spare, you earn extra rolls.
Here are the basics:
Strike: Knocking down all ten pins with your first ball. A strike earns 10 pins plus the pins knocked down on your next two rolls.
Spare: Knocking down all remaining pins on your second roll. A spare earns 10 pins plus the pins from your next roll.
Open frame: When not all pins are knocked down after two attempts.
The highest possible score in bowling is 300, which requires 12 strikes in a row.
Understanding scoring helps you recognize how important each frame can be.
Choose a bowling ball that feels comfortable
Kyle Troup emphasizes that choosing the right bowling ball is one of the most important early steps for success.
Bowling balls come in different weights and designs, so finding one that fits your strength and grip can make a big difference.
A few simple guidelines:
Choose a ball that feels comfortable to hold
Avoid something too heavy to control
Make sure the grip fits your fingers naturally
Many bowlers use three holes (two fingers and a thumb), while some two-handed bowlers use only finger holes. What matters most is finding a ball that gives you control and confidence when you release it.
You can experiment with different ball weights during your next visit by finding a center using the AMF location finder.
Focus on your stance and approach
Another key to consistent bowling is your stance and approach.
Troup recommends starting with a relaxed setup:
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
Keep a slight bend in your knees
Stay relaxed to avoid using unnecessary energy
Most bowlers use a five-step approach when walking toward the foul line. Right-handed bowlers typically begin with their left foot, while left-handed bowlers start with their right foot.
A smooth approach helps you maintain rhythm and control before releasing the ball.
Use the arrows on the lane as your target
Many new bowlers look directly at the pins when aiming their shot. Professional bowlers often focus on something closer: the arrows on the lane.
These arrows are located 12 to 16 feet from the foul line and help bowlers maintain consistent targeting.
By focusing on the arrows instead of the pins, you can develop a repeatable shot and make adjustments more easily.
Why spare shooting is so important
Strikes are exciting, but professional bowlers know that spares are what build strong scores.
Kyle Troup explains that converting spare opportunities keeps your score moving and helps maintain momentum during a game.
To improve your spare shooting:
Carefully assess the pins remaining on the lane
Choose the right ball for the spare attempt
Adjust your position on the approach if needed
Focus on your target before releasing the ball
Watch the ball travel down the lane to learn from the result
Single-pin spares often require a straighter shot, while multi-pin spares may require adjustments in positioning.
Tips for throwing a strike
Throwing a strike is the goal of every bowler, but it requires more than just power.
Kyle Troup recommends focusing on a few key elements:
Maintain a consistent stance and approach
Align yourself carefully with your target
Keep your arm relaxed during the swing
Release the ball with a controlled flick of the fingers and wrist
Watching your ball travel toward the pins can also help you understand how your delivery affects the result.
Practice your skills on the lanes
The best way to improve your bowling game is simply to keep playing.
Whether you're learning the basics, practicing your spare shooting, or trying to increase your strike percentage, every game is an opportunity to get better.
If you're planning a night out with friends or family, you can explore AMF Adult Social Events and turn your bowling trip into a group outing.
And when you're ready to try Kyle Troup’s tips yourself, find a nearby center using the AMF location finder.
Because every great bowler starts with the same thing:
A ball, a lane, and the determination to improve.