Do you remember your first time bowling?
However old you were when you first stepped foot on a bowling lane, the chances are those first few bowls spent more time in the gutter than toppling pins. Mind you that’s where the bumpers come in!
Ten pin bowling is the perfect family activity, where your own skill levels and willingness to throw yourself into it are more important than how big, strong or experienced you are.
From the little 'uns to grandparents and all ages in between, everyone can have fun bowling at a Tenpin centre - and we have many to choose from across the length and breadth of the country. So if you're thinking "Where can I find bowling near me?" you should never be too far from a Tenpin.
If you're not an experienced ten pin bowler, here are a few beginner bowling tips to give you the best chance of starting off with a bang...
Dress for bowling - not the catwalk!
OK, so those skin-tight jeans and close-fitting top might make you look a million dollars, but they aren't going to help your bowling skills!
There's a bit of bending and swinging involved in bowling, so bear that in mind when you're choosing what to wear.
And if you're already a bit concerned about the shortness of your skirt, you may find it's not just your lack of technique you're worried about exposing!
Dress for comfort, not the catwalk, and you'll be fine. Plus, you can wear your own shoes to bowl but remember to keep them sensible. High heels are a big no!
Size IS important
If the bowling ball you use is too heavy, you'll struggle to control your swing and end up with sore arms.
But if your ball is too light, a bit of over-exertion as you swing and your ball could end up anywhere - including the ceiling!
It's reckoned the ideal bowling ball for women is around 11-12lbs, and 14-15lbs for men.
But that's just a guide - the most important thing is choosing the correct ball for you, so don't be afraid to try out a few first with a few 'air swings' (remember not to let go though!)
Balls used in ten pin bowling typically have holes for two fingers and the thumb, but make sure they're the right size - a little larger than your ring size should be perfect.
Your ideal ball should be light enough to swing freely (boys - leave the bravado at home and don't just pick the heaviest ball) but heavy enough to increase your swing's momentum.
And once you're underway, don't be afraid to change your bowling ball size mid-game - and don't be discouraged if you get a few gutter balls in a row.
Relax - when you want a strike
Here we go then - it's time to approach the lane and let go of your ball!
Firstly, don't panic - no one is expecting miracles straight away. And those pins in the distance can seem a long way away at first.
Of course, you can always opt to have the guide rails at each side of the lane raised. That way, at least the ball SHOULD reach its destination, even if there's a bit of banging and crashing first!
It's certainly nothing to be ashamed of while you get your bearings.
But whether the guide rails are up or not, a RELAXED approach and delivery technique are most likely to pay dividends.
And don't overthink it - just aim for the pins. You can refine your technique and try some tricks once you're past the beginner stage.
Get in the swing
Some people hurtle towards the lane before letting go of their ball, others are much more sedate.
They opt for just a couple of slow steps because they feel it gives them more control.
For beginners, there's no right or wrong - do what you feel most comfortable with.
But when it comes to your bowling technique, here's a few basic tips:
* Try to keep your arm straight when you swing your ball from behind you to its release point. That will help you follow through as you release the ball and keep its direction as straight as possible.
* As you're about to let the ball go, bend your knees - that way, you'll be closer to the lane surface, so there'll be less room for it to start off course between your hand and the lane! And try to keep your back as straight as possible.
* Roll the ball, don't chuck it - that'll give you more control and help your accuracy.
* Forget Gangnam style - try Granny Style! For absolute beginners - and especially very little ones - a 'two hand' technique might be the way to go at first. True, it's not the most aesthetically pleasing but it's within the rules. As long as you cover the bowling holes with your fingers. It might help build confidence before moving on to a one-armed delivery.
But above all...
Our best bowling tip is to have FUN!! You're trying something new, so no one is expecting strike after strike!
And if you initially spend more time in the gutter than watching those pins fly, so what? Don't be discouraged - you'll get better in time.
And while you're improving, you're taking part in one of THE best activities for family and friends of all ages.
We have lots of different activities at our centres, but ten pin bowling is our beating heart.
And we couldn't be more confident that once you've had a go, you'll LOVE it!
With a vast array of different bowling deals to suit every pocket, you're guaranteed a cracking afternoon or evening out without breaking the bank.
And don't forget - many of our centres have lots of other attractions to enjoy.
These include private karaoke rooms, Sector 7 Laser Tag, Houdini's Escape Rooms, soft play, arcades and more!
So, whether you're a bowling beginner or a veteran, what are you waiting for?
To find your nearest Tenpin centre, check out our location page.
And if you want to speak to us, call 0333 034 6100. UK landline calls are charged at the national rate, and mobile charges vary according to your contract.