How to bowl: a simple guide

Looking for a fun activity for friends, family or a company party? Are you a seasoned veteran and need a refresher on the basics, or are you just getting ready to go bowling for the first time?

We've put together a simple guide that explains everything you need to know about bowling.

Bowling is a game where you try to knock down as many pins as possible with the ball. It is played on a lane approximately 18 metres long and the aim is to score as many points as possible in 10 rounds (called frames).

At the beginning of each frame, the player has two rolls. If he knocks down all 10 pins on the first try, it is called strike. If he makes it to the second pitch, it is a spare. Both scenarios provide bonus points.

1. Strike (marking "X")

This means that you knock all 10 pins with your first roll.

• You get 10 points per strike 
• Plus: To your 10 se Add the number of pins you knock down in the following two throws. 

📌 Example:

1. frame: Strike (X) 

frame: roll 4 and then 5 → 9 pins in total
➡️ Points for the 1st frame: 10 + 4 + 5 = 19
➡️ Points for 2nd frame: 4 + 5 = 9
Total after two frames: 28 points

2. Spare (marked "/")

You knock down all 10 pins, but on two rolls together.

• You get 10 points 
• Plus: To your 10, add the pins from next throw. 

📌 Example:

1. frame: roll a 3 and then a 7 → Spare 
2. frame: first throw 6, second throw 2
   ➡️ Points for the 1st frame: 10 + 6 = 16
   ➡️ Points for 2nd frame: 6 + 2 = 8
   Total after two frames: 24 points

3. Open Frame

You won't hit all 10 pins after two throws (never mind 🙂 ).

• You only score as many points as the total number of pins you knock down in the frame. 

📌 Example:

You roll a 4 and then a 3 → 7 pins in total
➡️ Frame points: 7 points

You still don't know what to do? We've prepared a clear graphic for you

• Special footwear - In Bowling Celnice, Dejvice and Kolín we will lend it to you for free.
  
• Bowling ball - You choose the right weight and hole size for your fingers on the spot.
• Good mood - We'll take care of the rest.

• Take your time. Better precise than stronger.

• Choose the right ball. It shouldn't be too heavy, but it shouldn't be too light either.

• Aim for the markers (arrows, dots, lines) on the runway. They'll help you take better aim.

• Keep a steady stance. Stability and think about what you are doing. You're (probably) not a pro, so don't stress too much.

Enjoy! Bowling is all about having fun.

At our place in Bowling Celnice the whole evening is an experience! Combine the game with an evening of fun - we offer:

• Wide selection of drinks 🍹 and food 🍔 
• Billiards and darts to complete the programme 
• Sports matches on the projection screen
• Corporate parties and private tailor-made events

Whether you are a tourist looking for an original evening program or a company planning a teambuilding, Bowling Celnice is here for you. You will find us in the centre of Prague - just a few minutes walk from the Powder Tower.

📍 Address:
Bowling Celnice
V Celnici 10, Prague 1

🕒 Opening hours:

• Mon - Thurs: 13:00 - 24:00

• Fri: 13:00 - 01:00

• So: 11:00 - 01:00

• No: 11:00 - 24:00

👉 Book your lane today and discover why bowling is so popular - and why Bowling Celnice is the best choice in Prague.