Bowl your way to fitness

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For those who think that bowling isn't exercise, think again. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Md., lists bowling as a moderate-intensity exercise that's helpful in lowering high blood pressure.

Bowling uses just about every muscle in the body, not just that swinging arm. However, for those looking to make bowling one part of a regular exercise routine, remember that it's a better strength training activity than a cardiovascular one, so include a 30- to 60-minute cardiovascular routine to round out a daily exercise program.

Flexibility is key to good bowling. The more flexible someone is, the easier it is to bend and move while bowling. Stretching also reduces the risks of muscle aches, pains and strains. To stay flexible, do some basic stretching exercises before and after bowling.

And while hitting the lanes is mostly fun and games, using bad form - and yes, bowling can be done wrong - can cause injury. The most common injuries result from overthrowing, throwing improperly or bowling too much.

- CTW

LOCAL LANES

Carson City's two bowling centers host a number of leagues and open bowling:

Carson Lanes Bowling Center

4600 Snyder Ave

(775) 883-2606

www.carsonlanes.com/

Gold Dust West

2171 US Highway 50 E

885-9000

www.gdwcasino.com/Carson/bowling.php

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