Anyone who's ever played a game of bowling knows it's addictive, fun and filled with a little healthy team rivalry. But some don't realise that stepping up to the bowling alley can also be good for your body - and not just young people can benefit.

Although certainly not as strenuous as activities such as basketball, bowling is still a physical activity that can burn calories and strengthen muscles. In fact, a game of bowling can be a healthy alternative to faster-paced sports for senior citizens. You might think the most physical exercise your Grandma can get is by knitting and baking cakes - think again!

Lifting the weight of a small bowling ball can help to keep muscles in the arms, legs and chest working and in shape.

In addition, the movements required to bowl can improve flexibility, and getting active in a game can improve heart and respiratory fitness.

According to the Office of Communities Sport and Recreation, physical activity can also mean older people will enjoy better sleep and increased energy levels.

It's not only physical benefits that older people can gain from ten pin bowling. Participating in Team bowling or simply a fun game or two with friends is a great way for older people to gain mental health benefits.

Focusing on bowling the ball and hitting the pins can exercise coordination and judgement skills. As well as keeping the mind active, ten-pin bowling is a social activity and a great way for the elderly to meet new friends and take some time out to relax. 

Many older people play lawn bowls, but the excitement, competitiveness and charged atmosphere of the ten-pin bowling alley may be better suited for those young-at-heart.

If you're an older citizen who'd like to get involved in sport and fitness with little risk of injury, or if you've got a Grandma who you know would love to play a game, why not head down to your local AMF bowling alley?