Bowling Safety: Playing Out of Harm's Way

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 29th, 2010

There are so many great things about bowling that many people are lured to play the game.

Almost anyone who is interested in sports would probably want to try to bowl. In fact, even those who do not have any particular interest in other sports enjoy this one because bowling is so easy to play that anyone can enjoy it.

No wonder almost 50 million people play this game in the United States, with over 6 million bowlers who are determined enough to join leagues or other competitions.

With so many people playing it is important to know something about bowling safety. Many players tend to overlook the safety procedures that need to be used when playing the game. Neglecting the safety rules in the bowling alley could cause serious injury, whether playing or observing. Therefore, it is important to know the safety rules when playing the game.

Here are some of the things that each player must try to observe in order to avoid serious injuries.

1. Warm-up exercises

Basically, it is important to have for warm-up exercises before playing the sport. This is a universal rule for every player in whatever sport he or she is participating.

It is important to stretch those muscles in order to avoid serious injuries like "pulled" or torn muscles.

2. Wear the proper bowling shoes

It is important for every bowler to use the right bowling shoes. This will prevent unnecessary slips that cause strained muscles whenever the player has to "slide-step" as he or she "bowls."

3. Never use one hand in handling the ball

This can create strains of the player's hands and back. Statistical reports show that 7 out of 10 players use only one hand which is why this is considered the most common mistake of every bowler. Besides, a 16-pound ball is relatively heavy to pick with just one hand, right?

4. Never intersect on the "foul line"

Usually, before the game starts, the lane is lubricated, so if a player crosses the "foul line" or the sides of the lane, the player accumulates oil on his shoes making them slippery. A fall may occur that could cause serious injury.

These are just some of the many safety rules that every bowler must know. Without understanding these safety rules, injury and accidents in the bowling lane will be inevitable.