The United States’ most popular participation activity, bowling attracts more than 70 million players annually. Exciting, challenging and fun for the whole family, bowling has also become known for both its health and lifestyle benefits.
Although seldom classified as a taxing physical activity, bowling can actually be used as an effective workout. In fact, here are several physical benefits to rolling a strike:
- Bowling two games is equivalent to walking 1/2 a mile, and players can burn as much as 285 calories during 30 minutes of playing.
- Bowling exercises 184 different muscles and provides a workout to parts of the body that are not normally exercised. These areas include tendons, joints and ligaments in the arms and legs.
- Bowling helps improve balance, flexibility and overall posture.
Aside from the physical benefits of hitting the lanes, bowling has also emerged as a growing sport among school-aged athletes. Research has shown that young people who participate in sports do better in school, and bowling is no exception. Below are some of the positive effects – both in and out of the classroom – associated with the sport:
- Competitive bowling is a popular team sport from elementary through college, and has recently become the fastest growing high school letter sport.
- Clubs, leagues and organizations provide approximately 6 million dollars annually in scholarships for youth players.
Perhaps bowling's greatest benefit of all is its accessibility. Bowling is a sport where no one rides the bench and families can participate together without worrying about skill levels.
Quinnz Pinz in Middletown, N.Y. provides the perfect place for bowlers of all ages and abilities to meet and play. From competitive leagues to open family lanes, the Orange County institution offers something for everyone. Click here for more information.