Getting to Know the Lanes

If you’re new to bowling or just want to brush up on your knowledge, understanding the terminology of the bowling lane can help improve your game and make your time at the alley more enjoyable. Here's a breakdown of the key terms and parts of a bowling lane:

 Approach

• The area where bowlers stand and take steps before releasing the ball. It is typically 15 feet long and includes dots or markers to help bowlers position themselves.

Foul Line

• The line that separates the approach area from the start of the lane. If a bowler crosses this line while delivering the ball, it’s considered a foul, and the score for that roll does not count.

 Lane

• The long, polished surface that the ball travels down towards the pins. It’s about 60 feet long from the foul line to the headpin. The lane is usually oiled to affect the ball’s movement.

 Gutter

• The trench on either side of the lane that the ball falls into if it veers off course. If the ball lands in the gutter, it’s called a “gutter ball,” and it scores zero.

 Bumpers

• Optional rails that can be raised along the gutters to prevent the ball from falling in. They are typically used for children or beginners to help keep the ball in play.

Oil Pattern

• The oil applied to the lane to create different levels of friction and affect ball movement. Oil patterns can vary in length and shape, influencing how the ball hooks or curves as it travels down the lane. Common patterns include "house patterns" (easy and consistent) and "sport patterns" (more challenging).

Arrows (Target Arrows)

• These are V-shaped markings located about 15 feet down the lane, used by bowlers as aiming points to help guide their shots.

Boards

• The lane surface is divided into 39 narrow strips called boards. Bowlers often use these boards, along with the arrows, to line up their shots and adjust their aim.

Pin Deck

• The area at the end of the lane where the pins are set up. The goal is to knock down as many of the 10 pins as possible with each roll.

Pins

• The ten pins are arranged in a triangular formation at the end of the lane. They are numbered 1-10, with the headpin (pin 1) being the frontmost pin.

Pinsetter

• The machine located behind the lane that sets up the pins after each frame and clears fallen pins. Modern pinsetters are automated, quickly resetting the pins after each roll.

Ball Return

• The mechanism that returns the bowling ball to the player after it is rolled. The ball travels under the lane and comes back through the ball return system to the approach area.

Kickbacks

• The sidewalls located along the pin deck. When the ball or pins hit the kickbacks, they can sometimes bounce back into play and knock down other pins.

Head Pin

• The front pin in the triangular setup of the pins (also known as Pin 1). Hitting the head pin is crucial for achieving strikes or setting up favorable spares.

Split

• A challenging setup that occurs when two or more pins remain standing after the first roll, with a gap between them. Common examples include the 7-10 split and the 4-6 split.

Strike Pocket

• The ideal spot for a right-handed bowler is between pins 1 and 3, while for a left-handed bowler, it’s between pins 1 and 2. Hitting the pocket increases the chances of a strike.

Pinspotter Lights

• Small lights on the pin deck that help bowlers see where the pins are located. They are especially useful when aiming for spares.

Back End

• The final part of the lane, typically the last 15-20 feet, where there is little to no oil. This area creates friction, causing the ball to hook or curve as it approaches the pins.

House Ball

• A bowling ball provided by the alley for general use. House balls come in various weights and sizes but are not custom-fitted like a personal bowling ball.

Lane Conditions

• The overall state of the lane, including the oil pattern, which influences how the ball travels. Lane conditions can change during play, affecting ball performance and requiring bowlers to adjust their strategies.

Understanding these terms and how each part of the lane works is essential for improving your game. Next time you step up to the lane, you’ll have the knowledge to make more informed shots and enhance your bowling experience!