One in 10 adults have never landed a strike when tenpin bowling

A poll of 2,050 adults found 86 per cent have played the sport at one time or another and 48 per cent have no confidence in their ability to knock down all the pins - with 11 per cent unaware there is a particular technique for doing so.

On average those polled land only two strikes during the game (1.6), with 25 per cent typically failing to get any.

The research was commissioned by Hollywood Bowl which partnered with professional bowler Ben Marston also known as 'TenPinBen' to create a five-step guide for landing a strike.

David Williams, operations director for the bowling chain, said: “There’s no better feeling than hitting that perfect strike.

"There are a lot of myths out there on what it takes to achieve a bowling strike – many of us think it’s just about throwing the ball as hard as possible but there’s so much more to the technique.

"It is great that we can help customers and bowling fans make small changes to be able to produce the winning formula for a 'Perfect Strike.'"

When asked what puts those polled off bowling, 17 per cent admitted they're embarrassed by their technique. Meanwhile 17 per cent said they don't know how to bowl properly, 16 per cent are worried they'll be bad and 13 per cent fear they'll fall over.

One in 10 simply don't understand the rules. However, 46 per cent are adamant nothing could get in the way of them enjoying the pastime - 28 per cent see it as a good way to socialise and 18 per cent think of it as exercise but 'more fun.'

As many as 17 per cent get a kick out of the competitive nature of the sport and for 16 per cent, it brings a sense of nostalgia.

When attempting to get a strike, 30 per cent simply bowl the ball and hope for the best, with 18 per cent opting for power. Almost a fifth (18 per cent) admit they simply leave it down to luck and 11 per cent happily use the barriers.

However, the number one method for getting a strike is aiming for the middle pin (34 per cent).

Loughborough University’s Dr Curtis Hooper, who co-authored a study into ‘perfect’ tenpin bowling techniques last year, added: “The ability to strike regularly is crucial for bowlers should they wish to obtain those all-important high scores.

“Our research found that the position of the ball as it hits the pins is important - the front pin should be hit slightly off centre to have the best chance of bowling that perfect strike.”

Ben ‘TenPinBen’ Marston’s top tips for landing a strike

1. Set your stance: Start with a neutral, middle-of-the-approach stance, then move slightly left or right based on the ball reaction. Point your feet roughly where you’re aiming - your body will naturally follow. Keep a small, athletic knee bend and a comfortable 50/50 weight balance; the more relaxed and natural your stance feels, the easier it is to repeat consistently.
2. Don’t rush to the line: A lot of beginners try to run at the foul line and throw the ball hard. Slow everything down and walk in control to feel more balanced and the ball will come off your hand cleaner.
3. Keep two hands on the ball: Let both hands support the ball on the approach then let your non bowling hand come off naturally as you get to the release. This helps keep the ball steady and stops it getting thrown all over the place.
4. Swing like a golf swing: Think smooth and connected, rather than snatching at it with your arms. Let your body and shoulders work with the motion.
5. Pick one target: Pick one target and stick with it for a few shots – changing every throw teaches you nothing. Repetition lets you see what the ball is really doing.