Do you feel dismayed when friends or dates suggest going to the bowling alley—for fun? Though a popular and beloved sport among many, bowling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If the thought of spending another evening knocking down (or missing) pins makes you groan, stick around. Here, we’re going to share some invaluable tips to have more fun going bowling, even if you secretly despise it. You might even look forward to your next bowling adventure!
Figure Out Why You Hate Bowling
First things first: pinpoint exactly why you hate bowling. Is it the competitive aspect? The fear of embarrassment in front of friends? Or maybe you find it boring.
Whatever the case, identifying the root cause of your disdain will help you address it directly. For example, if your issue is that you don’t like the competition, see if your friends would be open to a game in which the score doesn’t matter. Or if you find it boring, see if you can find ways to spice up the night with an engaging conversation game, trick shots, or whatever else you can imagine.
Improve One or Two Skills—Forget the Rest
Very few people have fun at something they’re not good at. If you struggle with basic bowling skills, that’s alright! You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the game. Still, improving in one or two areas can help you feel more confident and have more fun. For instance, increasing your ball hook can be a very useful skill that will make you feel better about your performance and impress your friends. And remember—perfection is not the goal; having fun is.
Focus on the Social Aspect
Bowling is as much about camaraderie as it is about the game. Sometimes, shifting your focus from the score to the social interactions can make all the difference. Use this time to catch up with friends, share a few laughs, and enjoy the communal atmosphere. Bowling alleys often have a lively vibe, with music, food, and drinks to complement the experience. Leaning into the social aspect can transform a night at the bowling alley into a fun outing with friends, regardless of your score.
Explore Themed Nights
Many bowling alleys host themed nights—cosmic bowling, 80s night, or even costume parties. Participating in these events can make the experience more about the theme and less about the bowling. It’s an excellent way to enjoy yourself while engaging in an activity that’s not your favorite. Dressing up, enjoying the thematic music, or just basking in the different ambience can make your bowling experience unique and memorable.
Going bowling might not be your first choice for a fun night out, but these tips will help you have more fun. Who knows? You might just strike it lucky and discover a newfound appreciation for the game!
