Techniques to make your spares in bowling
Strikes may grab attention, but spares are what keep a scorecard alive. Even professional bowlers rely on spare conversions to maintain high averages and win games. If you’re serious about improving your scores, it’s not just about throwing strikes—it’s about following advanced bowling tips, using a dependable bowling targeting system, and learning how to approach split conversions with confidence. By mastering spare shooting techniques, you’ll take your bowling game to the next level.
Why spare shooting matters
Missing spares can quickly turn a promising game into a disappointing one. Even a single open frame can shave 10–20 pins off your final score. By contrast, bowlers who consistently pick up spares often average far higher than players who rely solely on strikes. Strong spare shooting creates stability across games, builds confidence, and allows you to stay competitive even when lane conditions don’t favor you.
The 3 C’s of bowling
Success on spares often comes down to the three C’s: concentration, confidence, and consistency. Concentration ensures you’re focused on your alignment and target, confidence allows you to step up without hesitation, and consistency ties it all together by repeating the same pre-shot routine. These mental anchors not only improve your spare percentage but also help you stay composed when the game gets tight.
Understanding the 3-6-9 rule
One of the most effective systems for spare shooting is the 3-6-9 rule. This method uses your feet as the adjustment tool, letting you keep your eyes on the same strike target.
For right-handed bowlers, the adjustments look like this:
2 or 8 pin: Move your feet 3 boards right.
4 pin: Move your feet 6 boards right.
7 pin: Move your feet 9 boards right.
3 or 9 pin: Move your feet 3 boards left.
6 pin: Move your feet 6 boards left.
10 pin: Move your feet 9 boards left.
Left-handers simply reverse the directions. The beauty of this system is its simplicity, you’re not reinventing your shot, just shifting your stance and letting the targeting system do the work.
Building a bowling targeting system
Every bowler approaches the lane differently, but a consistent bowling targeting system is crucial for accuracy. Many players use the arrows about 15 feet down the lane as visual guides, while others focus on a specific board at the foul line. What matters most is that you pick a reference point and stick with it. Combine this with the 3-6-9 adjustments, and you’ll have a system that works regardless of lane conditions. Over time, your muscle memory will do the heavy lifting, allowing you to step up with confidence no matter what spare you face.
How to get better at spares in bowling
Improving your spare shooting isn’t just about knowing systems—it’s about execution. Some bowlers prefer a plastic spare ball because it travels straighter, while others flatten their wrist to reduce hook with their strike ball. Corner pins like the 7 and 10 demand the most practice, since they’re missed more often than any other shots. Building a consistent pre-shot routine, paying attention to lane oil breakdown, and practicing under different conditions all contribute to a more reliable spare game. Looking for ways to practice more often? Check out AMF’s bowling specials to get extra frames in while saving on your next visit.
How to hit a split in bowling
Splits are the ultimate test of patience and precision. The dreaded 7-10 split is converted only rarely, requiring the ball to graze one pin so it bounces across to the other. Baby splits like the 2-7 or 3-10 are more manageable if you clip the inside edge of the front pin. On wide setups like the big four (4-6-7-10), the goal is to hit one pin thinly enough to slide it into its partner. Not every split can be converted, but aiming for maximum pin count instead of giving away an open frame is always the smart move.
This is where split conversion bowling comes into play: focus on the key pin, adjust your angle, and don’t panic when faced with tough lane conditions. Even partial success on splits will help you keep scores competitive.
Advanced bowling tips for spare mastery
Once the systems are understood, the challenge is execution. To sharpen your spare shooting, keep these advanced bowling tips in mind:
Treat spares as routine shots. Approach them with the same focus as a strike rather than as an emergency.
Build muscle memory. Repetition under consistent conditions makes adjustments automatic.
Customize the 3-6-9 system. Adapt it to your personal style, ball speed, and rev rate.
Practice corner pins regularly. The 7 and 10 pins are the most commonly missed and deserve extra attention.
Develop a repeatable rhythm. Step, target, release—keeping the same cadence ensures consistency.
Final thoughts
Mastering spares is one of the fastest ways to improve your overall bowling game. By applying the three C’s, practicing the 3-6-9 system, and refining your bowling targeting system, you’ll drastically increase your spare conversion rate. Splits may always feel intimidating, but with practice and smart strategy, you’ll strengthen your split conversion bowling skills and learn how to hit a split in bowling with greater confidence. Strikes may win cheers, but it’s spares that will win your games. Ready to put your skills to the test? Plan your next outing with friends by booking an AMF party or event for a fun way to sharpen your game while having a great time.