Many people in their 60s and 70s are looking for ways to stay healthy in a way that is fun and enjoyable. If you’re one of them, then you have probably considered bowling and want to know if bowling is a good exercise for seniors, right?
Bowling burns about 250 calories per hour – this may vary depending on your height, weight and the intensity of your play. It’s a good, low-impact exercise that helps you develop strength and balance.
Whatever your reason may be for wanting to go to Stars & Strikes or Round 1 to play bowling, there are things you can do to make your experience more fulfilling.
Bowling for Seniors Who Want to Exercise
Bowling gets your heart pumping and your body moving. If you’re concerned about injuries, falls or loss of strength while in the alleys, you shouldn’t. It’s a low-impact sport and in fact, many old people play bowling even in their 80s and 90s. The oldest recorded bowler was 105 years old.
Most bowlers play 3 games in one session. An average person walks around the bowling alley and up and down the lanes for 0.5 mile burning anywhere from 170 to 300 calories. Your arm will be carrying anywhere between 9 to 16 lbs of weight (bowling ball) more than 50 times – enabling you to build balance and strength at the same time. Of course you need to make sure you have the right form to avoid injury.
So if your main reason for giving bowling a try is to exercise, you’re on the right track. You’ll be moving, weight lifting, stretching and balancing all at the same time!
Things to Consider
Just like any form of exercise, doing it correctly is important to minimize your risk of injury and harm. And also to have the best experience. Here are some things to keep in mind before getting started:
- Consult a health professional about your plans to play bowling. They will evaluate your health and fitness level and inform you of any restrictions or limitations.
- Use the right equipment. If you’re a senior and you’re new to bowling, make sure you use the right ball in terms of weight. That means you should use a ball that’s no more than 10% of your body weight. You also need bowling shoes that fit you properly. If you can, get protective gear such as wrist and knee support – these can be bought online or at a local bowling shop.
- Warm up. You should do some warm ups and stretching before you start bowling.
- Follow the lane markers. The dots on the approach should be used to position your feet. On the lane there are dots and arrows, use it to aim your bowl.
- Have fun! The objective of bowling is to enjoy yourself and to cheer on your friends. Whether your ball goes to the pins or the gutter, it’s all good!
When you are ready to start bowling, be sure to look at both sides of the lanes to see if someone else is on the approach. Don’t start until this bowler has released their ball before you take your turn.
Check out other bowling etiquette and guidelines here: