Time To Tune Up Your Equipment!  The bowling season is upon us and many of you have already begun or will be starting your leagues in the coming days ahead.  Seems that someone is always 'looking for a bowler' and asking around, but how many people are as concerned about their equipment?

Getting back into the swing of things requires more than just taking the bag out of the basement, or trunk of the car and heading into the center on the first night.  The most successful bowlers are the ones who treat their hobby with respect and invest time in their equipment. Here are some things to consider:

Do I need a new ball?  Although you might be tempted to run out and get the hottest new ball to start the first night with, the clever bowler will resist that urge, initially and make sure the arsenal they currently have is in top shape.  Doing so and using the first week or two to get back into a comfort zone will allow you to make a smarter decision when choosing a new ball in the future.  Whether you resurface, rejuvinate or just spray and wipe with cleaner, clean the surface of all of your current bowling balls!  Next, check to make sure your finger inserts don't feel like they belong in someone else's equipment!  Inserts continue to 'cure' over time and most finger inserts will dry out, therefore, changing shape/size over the summer if left unattended.  When this happens, you're not getting the best use of them.  Grips are cheap and designed to be replaced.   BOTTOM LINE: Instead of abandoning your current equipment, invest in it!  You'll increase the effectiveness of your arsenal and make a better choice in the future for new equipment.

Shoe Up!  One of the most ignored pieces of the bowling puzzle seems to be one of the most important ones.  Your bowling shoes were not designed to be worn for 20 years.  As much as styles change, so do the materials.  Today's shoes are much more versatile, lighter weight, and more stable than those of even 5-10 years ago.  Technical and style benefits aside, using shoes that have lost their support will lead to fatigue, and possible long term injury.  Many common ailments are linked to poorly fitting shoes or improper arch support.   BOTTOM LINE:  You shouldn't wear ANY pair of shoes for 5-10 years.  

You Need Help.  Face it, we could all use a little help sometimes!  Get to know your local pro shop operator on a different level.  Ask about coaching options!  The largest growth area in our industry over the most recent years is the availability of top-quality coaching.  Video and computer analysis of your game can help you break into new levels and bring more happiness and success with a sport you already love.  BOTTOM LINE:  The computer doesn't lie!

Even if you commit to doing one or two things to improve your game, you're moving in the right direction.  Success will breed motivation and hopefully more success!  Make DrillSheet a part of your continued plan for success by utilizing the Arsenal section!  Staying on top of your equipment will also help keep you on top of the leader board!  Now get out there and STRIKE!