Consumers Choose Bowling Ahead of Other Popular Pastimes, Outpacing Activities Ranging From Basketball, Golf and Baseball to Aerobics and Yoga

ARLINGTON, Texas, July 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- During a period when an increasing number of sporting industries and activities are competing for the attention of time-starved and cash-strapped consumers, Americans are turning to a classic pastime – naming bowling the nation's number one participatory sport (activities that typically require more than one individual to be played).  The findings, which are based on 2010 Simmons Research Data that analyzed consumer sentiment among more than 24,000 American adults, were reported today by the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA), bowling's leading non-profit trade association and the voice of the industry.  

With participation level at nearly a quarter of the population (22 percent), bowling rolled by such popular sports and activities as basketball (15 percent), golf (13 percent), aerobics (11.9 percent), baseball (13 percent) and yoga (9 percent) to secure the number one ranking.  In recent years bowling has enjoyed a tremendous resurgence in popularity that has been fueled by the emergence of family entertainment bowling centers and increasing levels of participation among women and youth bowlers.

"The tens of millions of Americans who bowl every year can't be wrong – and there is no sport more inclusive, welcoming and fun and that has an appeal that spans all ages, backgrounds and genders," said Steve Johnson, executive director of BPAA.  "More and more Americans are discovering and rediscovering bowling as a wholesome and affordable experience.  From adult organized play and youth leagues to birthday parties, singles nights and good old-fashioned family outings, bowling continues to be a top draw among Americans of all ages."

Based on 2010 Simmons Research Data, below is a ranking of the top ten participatory sports:

The data includes an analysis of 24,463 adult consumers in the United States, aged 18 years and older.

About The Bowling Proprietors' Association of America

The Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA) is a non-profit organization that has served as the voice of the bowling industry since 1932.  Headquartered in Arlington, TX at the International Bowling Campus, the BPAA provides it's more than 4,000 member centers with group purchasing programs, business and educational seminars, legislative representation and proactively promotes the association and bowling industry.  The BPAA's mission is to enhance the profitability of its member centers and raise the profile of Bowling, America's top-ranked participatory sport.  

For additional information please visit www.bpaa.com or call 1-800-343-1329.

SOURCE The Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America

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