Bowling for Beginners: What You Need to Know Before Your First Game
Have you decided to lace up those slick-soled shoes and give bowling a try? First off—welcome to the lanes! Whether you’re in Spryfield, Dartmouth, Bayers Road, Saint John, Bathurst, or Dieppe, Bowlarama is ready to roll out the red carpet (well, the lane carpet) and show you just how awesome bowling can be!
If you’re feeling a bit unsure about what to expect, don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your bowling arm). Today, dive with us on this quick-start guide to your very first game of bowling. Let’s turn those gutter balls into glorious strikes!
Step 1: Embrace the Bowling Shoes
Yes, they look funky. Yes, everyone wears them. And yes, they’re absolutely essential. Bowling shoes help you slide safely on the lane approach. They also keep our lanes in tip-top shape. Don’t worry—they’re comfy and cleaned after every use.
Bonus: They might even give you a bit of retro flair!
Step 2: Learn the Lingo (or Fake It ‘Til You Make It)
Here are a few fun terms to sprinkle into your convo:
Strike: Knocking down all 10 pins in one roll (cue happy dance).
Spare: Knocking down all 10 pins in two rolls (still worthy of a fist bump).
Gutter Ball: A swing and a miss (no shame—it happens to the best of us).
Turkey: Three strikes in a row. Yes, really!
Step 3: Get Your Stance and Aim Right
Start at the foul line, take four steps back, and square up. As you swing, keep your eyes on the arrows down the lane, not the pins! Those arrows are your aiming guide. Swing straight and smooth, and let the ball roll off your fingers like you’re tossing a gentle high-five to the universe.
Step 4: Have Fun (and Maybe Hit the Arcade After)
Seriously, this is the most important step. Bowling isn’t just about strikes—it’s about laughs, high-fives, and maybe a little competitive trash talk between friends. At Bowlarama, we’ve also got epic arcades, snacks, and cool vibes to keep the party going.
Your first game won’t be perfect—and that’s the point. Everyone starts somewhere. The real win? You showed up and gave it a shot. We’re here cheering you on every step of the way.
Ready to roll? Whether you’re 8 or 80, solo or with a squad, Bowlarama is your go-to spot for good times and great memories. So grab that ball, hit the lanes, and let the good times roll!
See you under the neon lights!
Book your first lane reservation now!
— Bowlarama Team
Frequently Asked Questions: Bowling for Beginners
Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy movement, and bring or rent bowling shoes (available at all Bowlarama locations). Avoid open-toe shoes or high heels. Sneakers aren’t allowed on the lanes.
Each game has 10 frames, and you get 3 rolls per frame.
A strike is knocking down all pins on the first ball.
A spare is clearing all pins in two or three balls.
Your total score depends on how you follow up a strike or spare (like in tenpin), but with different calculations.
Bowlarama uses automated scoring at most of our locations, so no need to track it manually!
Absolutely! Candlepin is perfect for families:
Smaller balls are easier for young hands
Bumpers are available for kids
All locations offer arcades, snacks, and family-friendly vibes
Yes! Most Bowlarama centers offer bumper lanes to help younger bowlers keep the ball out of the gutters and build confidence.
Nope! Bowling is fun and easy to pick up. With just a few tips—like how to hold the ball, aim, and swing—you’ll be scoring points and high-fiving your friends in no time.uild confidence.
If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend time indoors, candlepin bowling at Bowlarama is one of the top things to do in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick—especially for families, kids, first-timers, and groups of friends.
Click here to find Bowlarama location near you.