Method: This calculator uses the "Video Frame Counting" method. You will need a video of your throw and the ability to count frames (using a video player or editing software).
Count how many frames it takes for your tape/label to rotate exactly once.
Calculated Rev Rate
0 RPM
function calculateRevRate() {
// 1. Get input values
var fpsInput = document.getElementById('frameRate');
var framesInput = document.getElementById('framesCount');
var fps = parseFloat(fpsInput.value);
var frames = parseFloat(framesInput.value);
// 2. Validate inputs
if (isNaN(frames) || frames <= 0) {
alert("Please enter a valid number of frames greater than 0.");
return;
}
// 3. Calculation Logic: (FPS * 60) / Frames per Rev
// Explanation:
// Time for 1 rev = frames / fps (seconds)
// Revs per second = 1 / (frames / fps) = fps / frames
// RPM = (fps / frames) * 60
var rpm = (fps * 60) / frames;
// Round to nearest whole number
rpm = Math.round(rpm);
// 4. Determine Category
var category = "";
var description = "";
if (rpm = 200 && rpm = 350 && rpm < 500) {
category = "Power Player (High Revs)";
description = "You generate significant hook potential. Common among modern competitive bowlers.";
} else {
category = "Cranker / Two-Hander (Very High Revs)";
description = "Elite rotational energy. Requires high ball speed to control the hook.";
}
// 5. Update UI
document.getElementById('rpmOutput').innerHTML = rpm + " RPM";
document.getElementById('categoryOutput').innerHTML = "Category: " + category;
document.getElementById('metricOutput').innerHTML = "At " + fps + " FPS, completing a rotation in " + frames + " frames equals " + rpm + " revolutions per minute.";
var resultBox = document.getElementById('result');
resultBox.style.display = "block";
}
How to Calculate Bowling Rev Rate
Understanding your bowling rev rate (Revolutions Per Minute) is crucial for modern bowlers. It helps you determine which bowling balls to drill, how to lay them out, and how to match your game to specific lane conditions. Rev rate measures the amount of rotational energy you impart on the ball at the point of release.
Why Rev Rate Matters
Your rev rate dictates the potential hook of the ball. A higher rev rate generally creates more friction with the lane, leading to a stronger backend reaction and increased pin carry. However, rev rate must be balanced with ball speed. If you have high revs but low speed, the ball will hook too early. Conversely, high speed with low revs results in the ball sliding past the break point.
The Calculation Formula
The most accurate way to calculate rev rate outside of a laboratory is by using video analysis. The math is relatively simple once you have the data points:
Formula:RPM = (Frame Rate × 60) ÷ Frames Per Revolution
Frame Rate: The speed at which your camera records video (usually 30 or 60 frames per second).
Frames Per Revolution: The number of video frames it takes for the ball to rotate 360 degrees once.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure
1. Prepare the Ball
To see the rotation clearly, place a piece of contrasting tape (like white bowling tape) on your ball. The best location is usually halfway between your grip center and your PAP (Positive Axis Point). Alternatively, place a piece of tape simply above the finger holes. The goal is to make the rotation visible to the camera.
2. Record the Video
Ask a friend to film your release. The camera should be low to the ground, directly behind the bowling arm, focusing on the first 10-15 feet of the lane.
Ensure your camera settings are fixed. Most modern smartphones record at 60 FPS (frames per second) or 240 FPS (slow motion). Checking your settings is vital for the calculation.
Release the ball normally.
3. Count the Frames
Open the video in a player that allows frame-by-frame viewing (most phone galleries or video editing apps allow this).
Find the exact frame where the ball leaves your hand.
Look at the position of the tape.
Advance the video frame-by-frame until the tape returns to that exact same position (one full rotation).
Count how many frames that took. Enter this number into the calculator above.
Interpreting Your Results
Once you have your RPM, you can categorize your style:
Low (Under 250 RPM): Often referred to as "Strokers." These bowlers play straighter angles and rely on accuracy.
Medium (250 – 350 RPM): "Tweeners." This is the average range for many league bowlers. It offers a balance of control and power.
High (350 – 450 RPM): Power players. This range is common on the PBA tour, allowing for steep entry angles and high strike percentages.
Elite (450+ RPM): Often seen in "Crankers" or two-handed bowlers. This generates massive torque and pin action.
Matching Rev Rate and Speed
Knowing your rev rate is only half the battle. To be effective, your speed needs to match your revs. The general rule of thumb for a "balanced" game is:
300 RPM matches well with roughly 16-17 MPH.
400 RPM matches well with roughly 18-19 MPH.
500 RPM matches well with roughly 20+ MPH.
If your rev rate is significantly higher than your speed supports, you are "rev dominant" and need weaker bowling balls or longer oil patterns. If your speed dominates your rev rate, you need stronger equipment with more surface to help the ball read the lane.