Before we start our league play or tournament competition, we usually get a certain amount of practice reps before starting. In this article we are going to break down how to use the practice session you receive to your full advantage.

Now each league or tournament is slightly different everywhere you go. For those tournaments or leagues where they only allow 1-2 Shadow Balls on each lane this article will not be as beneficial. However, a few quick suggestions for that setup would be to take practice reps without the ball, and allow for an extended stretching routine. If you don't have the proper time to loosen any joints, ligaments, and muscles it may result in possible tendon/ligament damage.

To get back on track of proper time management, here is an idea that may help you get ready to bowl. Most all of us while warming up only attempt strike shots. Why is that? Well for one, we all like to see strikes and it is the quickest element to help improve score. Lets face it, we are not going to strike every single ball. The result of not striking every ball will promote spare shooting. So during your warm-up session why not take advantage of shooting at some spares? What do I mean by this is? If everyone is doing this correctly, you should be given a full rack to start. With that full rack being present, shoot at a ten pin first. After attempting your ten pin shot, you should be left with at least the 1-2-3 along with other pins. The pocket is still present for you to throw a strike. The same thing can be done shooting at a 7 pin as well. After attempting the 7 pin, the 1-2-3 along with other pins should be standing. Thus allowing you to throw another pocket shot after attempting a corner pin. By using this method, you are taking advantage of your full warm-up time along with attempting both worlds, strikes and spares.

There are a couple of reasons I don't suggest throwing just a strike ball. During your practice, if you are to throw a strike, you only get that one ball. Less shots thrown equals, less body movement and use. You should be ready to go before the night starts instead of using the first few frames to still get loose. Plus if you are to throw a strike on your first ball, you do not have the chance to shoot at any spares. Now if you didn't attempt any corner pins during warm-up, more than likely, that first corner pin you leave will be missed. After missing that spare, you just cost yourself roughly eleven pins on to your game.

The point of of shooting at corner pins before strike shots is to get your body completely ready for scoring. Don't get caught up throwing strikes to impress. The best way to impress people is with average. The only way the average is going to go up, is by making those spares. Practice Practice Practice, and take full advantage of your practice/warm-up session before competition!