Many things are crucial to a bowler's performance. First, there are the technical elements such as equipment, lane conditions and lane surfaces, practice techniques, and the little things like taping, bowler supports & aids, and the like. Another element often investigated of late is the psychological element, the mental game, and how it affects bowling performance. Lastly, there are the physical or physiological factors such as aerobic conditioning, strength, and flexibility. Of all things that impact your performance, one element remains neglected within the vast array of technical advancements and psychological importance, and that's the nutritional element.

Think of your body as an engine, and food as its source of fuel.  As the engine runs, fuel is converted to operate it in a manner that is efficient and effective.  Food and fluid provides your supply that can provide a high energy value when planned well. The more active your engine, the more fuel you expend, the more refueling required. If your engine runs low and then out of runs out of energy, there is a resultant decline in efficiency and eventually stops running. The same is true for the human body, although it is a bit more complicated than the family car. Just as a car operates better with a regular oil change and premium gas, the human body functions more efficiently when fueled by the proper energy source.

Your body requires a specific type and amount of fuel.  Peak athletic performance is contingent upon an ample, but not an over abundant supply of fuel.  With it, you can assure yourself the likelihood of maintaining a well-oiled and supercharged engine. A decline in required energy will trigger a diminished level of performance.

You fueling needs are really quite simple. You need carbohydrates, fats, protein, and plenty of water. Those are the only four types of fuel you need, nothing more and nothing less. Although you do require other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, which end up assisting all the wonderful chemical and cellular reactions occurring every second inside your body. These are found in the foods and beverages you consume. Think back to the previous analogy. If the body is an engine and food is the fuel, carbohydrates, fats, protein, and water are the rich mixture of gasoline, while vitamins and minerals are the spark plugs that keep the engine running. Take away any one, and disaster is imminent. Have them in place at all times, and your PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL is MAXIMIZED.

All food products contain calories. Protein, carbohydrates, and fats all have a certain amount of calories, however the type of calorie is the distinct and unique difference between the three. Some types of calories, protein for example, are used to repair musculoskeletal tissue after training or injury. Others like carbohydrates and fats are used as the energy sources to fuel activity. Therefore, the right kind of calorie, and not just the amount, is also an important consideration.

One food source highly recognized by sport nutritionists and sport trainers is the carbohydrate (carbs). Carbohydrates provide the HIGH OCTANE ENERGY needed to compete, train, and recoup.  Carbs are the energy we need to bowl and strike. Carbs are simply the energy used to fuel bodily movement. That's right. While protein, water, vitamins, and minerals have their own responsibilities, carbs are the driving force behind our every movement.

Carbs can be found in many foods, and are organically arranged into two forms, simple sugars and complex carbs.  Simple sugars, the smallest carbohydrate, are really nothing but sugar found in certain foods. They are a form of short term energy source used immediately by the body. Simple sugars are usually found in sweet fruits, candy, and those addictive snack cakes sold in many bowling centers. Simple sugars are merely the sweet taste in just about every product we crave. Do you like cookies, candy, snack cakes, etc. Instead of a sweet tooth, most of us have a sugar tooth.

Now, completely opposite of those sweet simple sugars are complex carbohydrates. They are the unsweetened carbs.  No real distinct sweet taste to 'em. They are in essence multiple carbohydrates (known as starches), bonded together in a complex manner. More importantly, they are your long-term source of energy. That's right, they are the energy we need to bowl longer and stronger.

You can find complex carbs in starchy foods such as pasta, breads, cereals, grains, vegetables, and some fruits.

Processed foods also contain some complex carbs. Most often, processed foods are a mixture of both types, and are often deficient in nutritional value and are not highly recommended. For example, potato chips contain carbs, but they are loaded with fat, thereby classified as junk food, empty calories, or even low-nutrient-density foods.

According to the American Dietetic Association, at least 60% of an athlete's caloric intake should come from foods containing carbs. Other sports scientists believe for optimal performance, carbs can account for up to 70%. Here and now,

Now how can you use them to your advantage?

3-5 Hours Prior to Bowling

2-3 Hours Prior to Bowling

During-1 Hour Prior to Bowling