What is a backup ball in bowling? This is a question that many people have asked, and it can be confusing for those who are new to the game.
A backup ball is a spare ball that you use when you bowl two consecutive strikes. In other words, it is the ball that you use when you need to pick up the spare.
Let’s take a closer look at what this means and how you can use a backup ball to your advantage!
What Is A Backup Ball In Bowling And Its Types?
A backup ball is a spare ball used to bowl over pins that were not cleared with the first ball. It is also used to improve your bowling score if you are not satisfied with your first bowl.
Most bowling alleys have a variety of backup balls to choose from.
House Ball
The most common type of backup ball is the house ball. House balls are usually heavy and have a lot of grips. They are also not very expensive, making them a good choice for beginners.
Reactive Ball
Another type of backup ball is the reactive ball. Reactive balls are made of a material that helps the ball hook more. This makes them ideal for experienced bowlers who want to improve their scores. However, reactive balls can be more expensive than house balls.
Urethane Ball
The last type of backup ball is the urethane ball. Urethane balls are the most expensive, but they offer the best performance. They are made of a material that makes them hookless, which makes them ideal for bowlers who want to control their balls.
What Is Backup Bowling?
When you go to a bowling alley, you will see many different types of balls. Each type of ball has a specific purpose. One type of ball that you might see is a backup ball. But what exactly is a backup ball?
A backup ball is a second ball that some bowlers use in case their first ball does not work well. For example, if a bowler’s first ball goes into the gutter, they can use their backup ball to try and get a better score. Backup balls can be helpful for bowlers who are still learning how to bowl. They can also be beneficial for experienced bowlers who want an extra chance to get a strike or spare.
If you are interested in using a backup ball, you should talk to your local bowling alley. They can help you choose the right ball for your needs. You should also practice using your backup ball to prepare to use it in a game.
When Is It Best To Use A Backup Ball In Bowling?
These are all valid questions that bowlers often ask. To understand when it is best to use a backup ball, it is essential first to understand it. A backup ball is simply a second bowling ball that can be used in case your primary bowling does not seem to be working well.
There are many reasons why you might want to use a backup ball. For example, if your primary bowling ball gets damaged or lost, you need to use a backup ball. Or, if you find that your direct bowling doesn’t work well on specific lanes, you might want to use a backup ball that is better suited for those lanes.
Another interesting read: What Are The Rules For Bowling?
Benefits Of Using A Backup Ball In Bowling
There are several benefits of using a backup ball. First, it can help you to improve your bowling score. If you find that your primary ball isn’t working well, a backup ball can give you the extra boost you need to improve your score.
Second, using a backup ball can help to reduce wear and tear on your primary ball. If you only use your direct ball on lane conditions that are very tough on balls, it will eventually start to show signs of wear and tear. By using a backup ball in easier lane conditions, you can help prolong your primary ball’s life.
Finally, using a backup ball can give you a sense of security. If you are a competitive bowler, you know that anything can happen on any given day. Having a backup ball gives you peace of mind, knowing you have a second chance if your primary ball doesn’t work out.
Now that you know what a backup ball is and some of the benefits of using one let’s talk about when it is best to use a backup ball. As we mentioned before, one reason to use a backup ball is if your primary bowling ball isn’t working well in certain lane conditions.
When Do You Not Use A Backup Ball?
A backup ball is not needed when you can strike consistently with your first ball. This is generally only possible in easier bowling conditions where the oil pattern does not break down as quickly. When the lanes start to transition and it becomes more challenging to carry strikes, that is when most bowlers will switch to using a backup ball.
Some bowlers never use a backup ball because they cannot adjust their game enough to be successful with one. This could be due to many factors, such as lack of ability, experience, or practice time. If you find yourself in this category, then it is probably best to just stick with your first ball and work on becoming more consistent before trying out a backup ball.
There are also some bowlers who simply prefer not to use a backup ball. They may have had success in the past without one, or they may just feel more comfortable throwing their first ball under all conditions. This is a personal preference, and there is no right or wrong answer here.
Another interesting read: How to Take Care of Bowling Equipment?
Conclusion
So, What Is A Backup Ball In Bowling? Simply put, it is an extra ball that you bowl with in case your first ball goes into the gutter. Most bowling alleys will have a few backup balls on hand if someone needs one. While they are not necessary, they can be accommodating if you have a bad day or if your first ball goes into the gutter. Thanks for reading, and we hope this article was helpful!