Pro bowling tips from PBA Champion Kyle Troup
Bowling looks simple when you’re watching from the sidelines. But once you step onto the lanes, you realize there’s a lot more happening behind every strike, spare, and perfect roll.
That’s part of what the HBO documentary Born to Bowl explores. The series follows professional bowlers as they compete, train, and push their skills to the highest level of the sport.
One of the athletes featured is PBA Major Champion Kyle Troup, known for both his vibrant personality and his powerful performance on the lanes. In a series of videos, Troup shares some of the core fundamentals that help bowlers develop consistency and improve their scores.
The best part is that many of these techniques are things anyone can try during their next game at Bowlero.
Learn the basics of bowling scoring
Understanding scoring is the first step toward improving your game.
A bowling game consists of 10 frames, with most frames allowing two rolls. The tenth frame is slightly different because players can earn extra rolls if they score a strike or spare.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Strike: All 10 pins knocked down with the first ball. A strike earns 10 pins plus the pins from your next two rolls.
Spare: All pins knocked down using both rolls. A spare earns 10 pins plus the pins from your next roll.
Open frame: When some pins remain standing after both rolls.
The highest score in bowling is 300, achieved by throwing 12 strikes in a row.
Knowing how scoring works helps you understand why strikes and spares matter so much during a game.
Pick a bowling ball that feels right
Kyle Troup emphasizes that choosing the right bowling ball is one of the simplest ways to improve performance.
Bowling balls vary in weight and design, and selecting one that feels comfortable allows you to maintain control throughout your swing.
A few things to keep in mind:
Choose a ball that feels balanced in your hand
Avoid balls that feel too heavy or difficult to control
Make sure the finger holes fit comfortably
Many bowlers use three holes for grip, while two-handed bowlers may only use the finger holes. The key is finding a ball that allows you to release it smoothly and consistently.
You can experiment with different ball weights the next time you visit a center using the Bowlero location finder.
Focus on your stance and approach
Great bowling starts before the ball even leaves your hand.
Kyle Troup explains that your stance should feel relaxed and balanced. A strong setup helps you maintain control during your delivery.
Basic stance tips include:
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
Keep a slight bend in your knees
Maintain a relaxed posture
Most bowlers use a five-step approach toward the foul line. Right-handed bowlers typically start with their left foot, while left-handed bowlers begin with their right foot.
This rhythm helps create a smoother delivery and more consistent shots.
Aim for the arrows, not the pins
Many casual bowlers try to aim directly at the pins. Professional bowlers often focus on something closer: the arrows on the lane.
These arrows sit about 12 to 16 feet from the foul line and help bowlers develop a consistent target.
By aiming for an arrow rather than the pins themselves, bowlers can repeat their shot more easily and make adjustments if the ball isn’t hitting the pocket.
Why spare shots matter so much
While strikes are exciting, spares are what keep your score strong.
Kyle Troup emphasizes the importance of spare conversions during a game. Missing spares can quickly lower your overall score, even if you bowl several strikes.
To improve spare shooting:
Carefully identify the remaining pins
Select the best ball for the spare attempt
Adjust your position on the approach if needed
Focus on your target before releasing the ball
Watch how the ball travels down the lane
Single-pin spares often require a straighter shot, while multi-pin spares may require different positioning or adjustments.
Tips for throwing a strike
Every bowler loves the sound of all ten pins falling at once.
According to Kyle Troup, strikes come from a combination of timing, technique, and confidence.
To improve your chances of striking:
Maintain a consistent stance and approach
Align your shot carefully with your target
Keep your arm loose during the swing
Release the ball with a controlled flick of your fingers
Watching the ball travel down the lane also gives you valuable feedback for future shots.
Try these tips on your next bowling night
Watching the professionals compete in Born to Bowl can inspire anyone to improve their game. But the real fun comes when you step onto the lanes and try the techniques yourself.
Whether you’re bowling with friends, planning a team outing, or celebrating a special occasion, every game is an opportunity to get better.
If you're planning a group outing, you can explore Bowlero Adult Social Events to turn a night of bowling into a full experience.
And when you're ready to test Kyle Troup’s tips, find a center near you with the Bowlero location finder and start practicing your next strike.
Because every great bowler starts somewhere.
Right on the lanes.