Bowling Etiquette: Basic Rules and What Not to Do
Bowling etiquette comes down to respecting the bowlers around you and the center: wait your turn when the lane next to you is in use, stay on your own approach, keep food and drinks off the approach, use only your own ball, and be ready when it is your turn. Good manners keep league night fast, safe and fun for everyone.
Below are the basic bowling etiquette rules, the mistakes to avoid, a few league terms new bowlers hear, and what to wear to the lanes. Browse women's league shirts in our women's bowling jerseys collection.
What are the basic bowling etiquette rules?
| Rule | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Yield to the bowler on your right | Only one bowler on adjacent approaches at a time |
| Be ready when it is your turn | Keeps the pace moving for both teams |
| Stay in your own lane | Body language and celebrations should not distract neighbors |
| No food or drinks on the approach | Spills make the approach sticky or slippery |
| Use your own ball (or a house ball) | Never pick up another bowler's ball without asking |
| Wear bowling shoes only on the approach | Street shoes track in dirt and water |
The national governing body for the sport sums it up this way: "The true meaning of bowling etiquette is to be respectful of others and the game being played." Its guide also says that when two bowlers step up at the same time, "the first one on the approach bowls first. If there's any question as to who was up first, the bowler on the right should bowl" (BOWL.com, Bowling Etiquette).
What not to do when bowling
- Do not run or horse around in the bowling area. It is dangerous and distracting.
- Do not wait on the approach to chat. If you are lined up and ready, bowl.
- Do not walk past the foul line. The lane is oiled and slippery.
- Do not loft or drop the ball hard on the lane. Roll it smoothly.
- Do not leave shoes, bags or coats in walkways. Keep them in your seating area.
- Do not coach a stranger unless they ask for tips.
Bowling etiquette on league night
League night has a few extra courtesies. Arrive in time for practice, keep the pace by being in the settee when your turn comes, cheer good shots from both teams and shake hands or bump fists at the end of the match. If you will miss a week, tell your captain early so the team can find a substitute. A strike means you can step off the approach right away; after a first ball that is not a strike, wait for the ball return but give neighboring bowlers room.
What is the 3-6-9 rule in bowling?
The 3-6-9 is a fun format, not an etiquette rule: in a "3-6-9 no-tap" game, the 3rd, 6th and 9th frames count as automatic strikes for every bowler. Many centers run it for fun nights and fundraisers. The rules of a specific event are set by the organizer, so check before you bowl.
What is sandbagging in bowling?
Sandbagging means bowling below your real ability on purpose to keep a low average and earn a bigger handicap. It is considered poor sportsmanship and most leagues have rules against it. Bowl your best every game.
What to wear bowling
Wear clothes that let your arm swing freely and do not hang over your wrist or hands. Rental or personal bowling shoes are required on the approach. Many leagues ask teams to wear matching shirts, and a polo or quarter-zip is the classic choice.
Our women's bowling jerseys come in a Women Polo and Women Quarter-Zip style, printed with your name and team name, from $29.99. Choose your style and size on the product page; fabric and fit details update with the style you pick, and our size guide helps with team orders. For more help, read what to wear bowling and bowling jersey vs polo vs quarter-zip.
FAQ
Who bowls first when two people are on the approach?
The first bowler on the approach goes first. If it is unclear, the bowler on the right bowls first.
Can you use someone else's bowling ball?
Not without asking. Use your own ball or a house ball from the rack.
Is it rude to celebrate a strike?
No, celebrating is part of the fun. Just keep it to your own lane so you do not distract bowlers next to you.
Can you wear street shoes on the approach?
No. Wear bowling shoes only, and do not walk outside in them, so dirt and water do not end up on the approach.
More from the Journal
How to Hunt Elk: A Beginner Plan From Trailhead to Wallow
A beginner elk hunting plan: trailheads, wind, cow calling, ambush spots and common mistakes.
3 min read
How to Hunt Turkey: Gear, Setup, Calls and Tactics
Gear, a step-by-step spring morning plan, turkey calls, fall tactics and safety.
3 min read
How to Call Ducks: 8 Duck Calls and When to Use Them
The eight duck calls to learn, what they sound like, when to use them and common mistakes.
3 min read