Hey Lykkers! Ever watched someone roll a strike and thought, “I wish I could do that”? Good news—we totally can. Bowling isn’t just about luck. It’s about form, practice, and knowing a few smart techniques.

Whether we’re just starting or already aiming for a perfect game, understanding the different bowling styles can help us improve fast. Let’s walk through the three most popular bowling techniques and find the one that fits us best.

1. Straight Throw: The Best Start for Beginners

For those of us new to bowling, the straight throw is the simplest and most reliable starting point. We begin by standing at the side of the lane, focusing on the front pin—usually the one at the center—and rolling the ball in a straight line.

When holding the ball, we place our thumb fully into the thumb hole and insert our middle and ring fingers up to the second knuckle. We cradle the ball at chest height with both hands. As we start walking, the ball swings naturally from in front of us to behind. On the final step, we push the ball forward with force.

Here’s a tip: keep our arm close to our body, stand tall, and make sure the ball stays right in front of our shoulder. Point the thumb straight toward the target and let the middle and ring fingers sit directly behind the ball. This position helps the ball roll smoothly and straight toward the pins.

2. Curve Throw: Add a Twist to Your Game

Once we’re confident with the straight throw, it’s time to add some style—and spin. The curve throw (also called the hook) is a technique that lets the ball arc across the lane before striking the pins at a better angle. This often leads to more strikes!

While the grip is similar to the straight throw, what changes is our movement and wrist action. As we walk, we adjust our steps to build momentum. During the forward swing, we point our thumb toward 1 o’clock. As the ball drops to its lowest point, we twist our wrist inward. When releasing, we turn our thumb to about 9 o’clock while letting go.

This rotation causes the ball to spin and curve naturally down the lane. It’s especially useful because it enters the pins at an angle that boosts our chance of knocking them all down. However, since this throw requires control and precision, it’s best for us to master the straight throw first.

3. UFO Throw: Trendy and Powerful

The UFO-style throw (also called a spinner) is gaining popularity for good reason: it’s powerful, cool-looking, and easier than it seems. It’s not bound by lane oil patterns and creates massive pin action when done right.

We start by gripping the ball with our thumb pointed around the 2 o’clock direction. The steps are similar to the straight throw, but when we swing forward, we twist our wrist and arm counterclockwise. Our hand turns upward, palm facing down.

At the release point, our thumb presses downward while our middle and ring fingers flick the ball forward. Ideally, the thumb finishes near 6 o’clock, while the fingers finish near 12 o’clock. This motion generates a fast sideways spin.

As the ball spins down the lane counterclockwise, it strikes between pins 1 and 2 or 1 and 3, causing the pins to topple sideways and crash into each other. The result? A dramatic and satisfying strike.

Pro Tips for Every Throw

No matter which style we choose, some golden rules stay the same: keep our balance, watch our angles, and control our speed. A smooth and confident release makes a world of difference. Also, understanding the lane conditions and pin setups helps us pick the best strategy for each shot.

And don’t forget—choose a bowling ball that feels comfortable in our hand and matches our strength. A good fit boosts both comfort and control.

Ready to Hit the Lanes?

Now that we’ve explored the three main bowling styles—the straight, the curve, and the UFO—we’re better prepared to shine at the bowling alley. Each technique offers something unique: the straight throw brings consistency, the curve adds flair and effectiveness, and the UFO delivers force and excitement.

So, next time we head out with friends or join a casual league, let’s try a new throw and see what happens. It’s not just about knocking down pins—it’s about having fun, improving our skills, and celebrating every strike together.

Which throw are you excited to try, Lykkers? Drop your answer, and let’s cheer each other on!