Are you just getting into bowling and wondering about bowling’s status as a sport? This is one of the most common questions that beginner bowlers have.
In this article, we will go through the arguments for each and help to determine whether bowling is a sport or merely a hobby. Follow along to learn more about bowling as a sport and hobby.
Arguments for Bowling Being a Sport
The first and most common argument people make when they say bowling is a sport is that it requires physical activity. You have to walk up to the lane, pick up a heavy ball, and throw it down the lane with the intent of knocking over as many pins as possible.
While this does require some level of physical fitness, the fact remains that many other activities also require physical fitness. For example, playing tag requires you to run around, which is a form of cardio.
So the fact that bowling requires some level of physical activity is not enough to make it a sport.
The second argument people make is that bowling is a sport because it is governed by rules and regulations. There is a governing body for bowling, which is the United States Bowling Congress. This organization establishes the rules of the game and oversees tournaments and competitions.
The fact that there are rules and regulations does not make an activity a sport. For example, board games such as chess or Monopoly also have rules and regulations. These activities are not considered sports.
The third argument is that bowling is a sport because it requires skill. This is similar to the first argument in that many activities require skill. For example, cooking is an activity that requires skill.
However, just because an activity requires skill does not make it a sport. There are many jobs that require skill, but they are not considered sports.
So based on the three arguments commonly used to support the idea that bowling is a sport, it does not seem that bowling meets the criteria to be considered a sport.
Arguments for Bowling Being a Hobby
There are also arguments for bowling being a hobby. The first argument is that bowling is a hobby because it can be done by people of all ages. Unlike many sports, which have age limits, anyone can bowl.
The second argument is that bowling is a hobby because it can be done alone or with others. Many hobbies can be done alone or with others. For example, reading can be done alone or with others.
The third argument is that bowling is a hobby because it does not require a lot of equipment. All you need to bowl is a ball and shoes. This is in contrast to many sports, which require expensive equipment.
So based on the three arguments commonly used to support the idea that bowling is a hobby, it seems that bowling does meet the criteria to be considered a hobby.
Sports Similar to Bowling
One of the best ways to determine whether bowling is a sport is to look at sports that are similar to bowling. The two most similar sports are bocce and croquet.
Bocce is a sport that is similar to bowling in that it involves throwing a ball. However, the similarity ends there. Bocce is played on a court, whereas bowling is played on a lane.
The second sport, croquet, is also similar to bowling in that it involves hitting balls with sticks.
However, croquet is played on a lawn, whereas bowling is played on a lane.
So based on the comparison of bowling to other sports, it does not seem that bowling is a sport.
Let’s Recap
Do you consider bowling a sport or a hobby? There are certainly arguments to be made for both sides.
Some people believe that the competitive aspect of bowling makes it a sport, while others think of it more as a leisure activity.
But does it matter which one is right? In the end, it’s up to each individual bowler to decide what they want their bowling experience to be. So whether you’re aiming for league dominance or just looking for a way to wind down after work, Bowling can provide hours of fun for everyone!
