Exercise is broadly categorized as aerobic or anaerobic.  Aerobic (with oxygen) exercise is a very active type of exercise that involves improving the flow of oxygen throughout the body.  Anaerobic exercise relies on stored energy sources. Anaerobic exercise uses your muscles at a high intensity for a short period of time.

Sports are either aerobic or anaerobic in nature.  As an anaerobic sport, bowling does not require a continuous period of physical activity and is similar to other anaerobic sports such as golf and weightlifting.

Bowling places physical demands on an athlete’s body that are different than in other sports.  Sports are further categorized as either symmetrical (shape or object has two halves that are exactly the same) or asymmetrical (shapes or objects has two halves that are not the same). 

Bowling, as an asymmetrical sport, places physical demands more on one side than the other. The asymmetrical motion of bowling creates stress on several areas of the athlete’s body:

To strengthen the muscle system controlling these body parts, a fitness program that enhances body strength and bowling performance. 

Before Bowling

Even though bowling is an anaerobic sport, there are major benefits to including aerobic training as part of your conditioning.  Aerobic exercise challenges the heart, lungs and circulatory system. When engaged in aerobic exercise, the cells within the muscles demand more oxygen. The heart, lungs and circulatory system respond accordingly to deliver the needed oxygen to the working muscles. By exercising regularly, the heart, lungs and circulatory system become more efficient.

Aerobic training designed to build muscle mass, endurance and stamina, provides a worthy fitness program, and can reduce the risk of injury when bowling.  For aerobic exercise to be effective, it must be practiced at least three to five times per week.

Pre-Game Exercise

Bowlers also utilize anaerobic exercises to stretch and warm up prior to bowling.  It is well established that muscles stiffen when not being used. Athletes starting any type of activity are well advised to limber up prior to use or risk possible injury.