Bowling tips from PBA Champion Kyle Troup
Professional bowlers make the game look effortless. The precision, power, and consistency they bring to every frame can turn a simple game of bowling into something incredible to watch.
That’s exactly what the HBO documentary Born to Bowl explores. The series follows professional bowlers competing at the highest level, sharing the dedication and passion behind the sport.
One of those athletes is PBA Major Champion Kyle Troup, known for his energetic personality and impressive skills on the lanes. In the series and accompanying videos, Troup shares a few bowling fundamentals that can help everyday bowlers improve their game.
The good news? Many of these tips are simple adjustments that anyone can try the next time they go bowling at Lucky Strike.
Understanding how bowling scoring works
Before improving your game, it helps to understand how scoring works.
A game of bowling consists of 10 frames, and most frames allow two rolls per player. The exception is the tenth frame, where bowlers can earn extra rolls if they score a strike.
According to Kyle Troup, scoring becomes much easier once you understand how strikes and spares affect your total.
Strike: Knocking down all 10 pins on the first roll. You earn 10 points plus the pins from your next two deliveries.
Spare: Knocking down all pins in two rolls. You earn 10 points plus the pins from your next roll.
Open frame: When not all pins are knocked down after two rolls.
If you roll 12 strikes in a row, you’ve reached the ultimate achievement in bowling: a perfect 300 game.
Understanding scoring helps bowlers recognize the importance of every frame, especially when trying to build momentum throughout the game.
Choose the right bowling ball
One of the most important fundamentals Kyle Troup emphasizes is selecting the right bowling ball.
Bowling balls come in different weights and designs, and choosing one that feels comfortable can make a huge difference in your performance.
A good rule of thumb:
The ball should not feel too heavy or too light
It should feel comfortable in your hand
It should offer a little resistance without straining your arm
Finding the right ball is easier when you have plenty of options available at your local center. You can find your nearest lanes using the Lucky Strike location finder.
Master your stance and approach
Consistency starts before the ball even leaves your hand.
Kyle Troup explains that your bowling stance and approach play a major role in delivering accurate shots.
A few basic tips:
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
Keep a slight bend in your knees
Maintain a relaxed posture
Most bowlers use a five-step approach when walking toward the lane. Right-handed bowlers typically begin with their left foot, while left-handed bowlers begin with their right foot.
A smooth and consistent approach helps generate better timing and control.
Use the arrows on the lane to guide your shot
Many casual bowlers focus only on the pins at the end of the lane. Professional bowlers often aim at something much closer: the arrows on the lane.
These arrows are located 12 to 16 feet from the foul line and serve as targeting markers.
By focusing on the arrows instead of the pins, bowlers can develop a more consistent delivery. Once you find an arrow that works for your shot, repeating that target can help improve accuracy over time.
And once you get comfortable with your target, the next step is practicing.
How to improve your spare shooting
Strikes may get the cheers, but spares win games.
Kyle Troup explains that spare conversions are essential for maintaining a strong score throughout a game.
A few tips to improve spare shooting:
Assess the pins carefully before stepping onto the approach
Choose the right ball depending on the spare you’re attempting
Adjust your position on the approach to create a straighter shot
Focus on your target before releasing the ball
Watch the ball travel down the lane to understand how it reacts
Single-pin spares often benefit from a straighter shot with less hook, while multi-pin spares may require adjustments in your positioning or ball choice.
What it takes to throw a strike
Every bowler dreams of hearing the crash of all ten pins falling at once.
Throwing a strike consistently requires more than just power. According to Kyle Troup, strikes come from precision, technique, and timing.
To increase your chances of striking:
Focus on perfecting your stance and approach
Align yourself with your target on the lane
Keep your arm relaxed but controlled during the swing
Release the ball with a slight flick of the fingers and wrist
And once the ball leaves your hand, keep your eyes on it. Watching the ball travel down the lane helps you understand how your shot behaves and what adjustments you might need to make next time.
Try Kyle Troup’s tips the next time you bowl
Watching professional bowlers compete in Born to Bowl is a great way to appreciate the skill behind the sport. But the real fun happens when you step onto the lanes yourself.
The next time you visit Lucky Strike, try a few of Kyle Troup’s tips and see how they improve your game.
Whether you're practicing, meeting friends for a few games, or planning a celebration, every visit is a chance to sharpen your skills and enjoy the experience.
If you're planning a group outing, you can also explore Lucky Strike Adult Social Events and turn your next bowling night into something even more memorable.
And if you’re ready to grab a lane and start practicing those strikes, find your nearest center with the Lucky Strike location finder.
Because every great bowler starts the same way.
On the lanes.