Is Bowling Really Exercise?
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OK, so when you think of bowling you probably don't picture a bunch of athletes in top physical form sweating away at a hard workout. In fact, your mental picture of a bowler may be more along the lines of a beer belly than a six-pack. The question then becomes can a sport like bowling really provide exercise?
Though it may seem surprising, the answer is yes. While bowling doesn't provide much of a cardiovascular workout, it does exercise the skeletal and muscular systems. Just because you don't get sweaty or winded when you bowl doesn't mean that you aren't burning calories and getting a workout. Over time bowling can improve muscle strength, flexibilty, range of motion and hand-eye coordination.
Because bowling is less vigorous workout than some others, it is a good choice for someone who is just making the transition from a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, seniors and people with certain health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes who can't do more vigorous sports can still get a workout with bowling. Besides the health benefits, there is also a social aspect to bowling that is often lacking in other sports, making it a great activity to meet people and make new friends.
Bowling can burn up to 4 calories a minute, which is very similar to the calories burned golfing, gardening, vacuuming or riding a bike at about 6 mph.
Interestingly, bowling is one of the fastest growing sports at the high school level with new teams popping up all over. Unlike highly competitive, physical sports, bowling can be enjoyed by just about anyone, so oftentimes kids that either don't like or don't excel at other sports are more comfortable bowling. At the same time, athletic kids also enjoy bowling, so it is a great sport that can include everyone. While it may not be a top physical workout, it is still better than sitting in front of a video game all day and helps kids to get in shape, make friends and have fun.
Just remember if you are bowling for exercise that it's probably a good idea to lay off the beer and potato chips, both of which can lead to the infamous bowlers' spare tire. Try snacking on heart healthy nuts or trail mix instead and enjoy the game!