There are many games available for those who love to step outdoors, get competitive, and show their skills. For example, badminton is a great game to get out with friends and family. However, those with a more competitive edge might prefer something else. Cornhole is a classic backyard game that has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. With its mix of friendly competition and accessibility for players of all skill levels, it’s no wonder that more people are eager to join in on the fun. If you’re new to cornhole and seeking ways to improve, look no further. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the basic rules to new techniques you need to succeed.
A Quick Overview of Cornhole: Rules and Equipment
Before diving into gameplay strategies, brushing up on some basic cornhole knowledge is essential. The objective is simple: teams take turns tossing bean bags at a slanted board 27 feet apart, aiming for the hole in the center. Scoring depends on where the bean bag lands—players earn one point for landing the bean bag on the board and three points for making it into the hole.
The game only requires a set of cornhole boards and eight bean bags. Official boards measure 2 feet by 4 feet and have a hole 6 inches in diameter. If you’re concerned about meeting game standards, ensure the board’s hole is 9 inches from the top edge and 12 inches from each side.
Develop Your Cornhole Techniques: Finding the Perfect Toss
Getting better at cornhole isn’t easy; finding a toss style that feels comfortable and works best for you is crucial. Some players prefer an underhand toss with a slight spin for better control, while others favor an overhand toss or a combination of the two. Experiment with different methods to determine which feels most natural for your playstyle and helps improve consistency.
One of the essential elements of a successful toss is selecting the right grip on the bean bag—ideally, you want to hold the bag loosely to generate a spin. Many professional cornhole players stress the importance of a consistent, relaxed grip and release.
Tactics for Achieving High Scores and Avoid Common Mistakes
Aside from mastering the toss itself, developing strategies to maximize your scoring potential and avoid falling into traps that hinder many new players is vital. One common mistake is aiming only for the hole rather than using the entire board to your advantage. Attempting a holeshot every time can increase the risk of missing the board altogether, resulting in zero points. Instead, focus on consistent board shots and let the hole shots come naturally.
Additionally, practicing defensive play can provide a significant advantage in games. By intentionally placing your bean bag to block your opponent’s path to the hole, you can force them into difficult shots and increase your chances of winning.
Beyond the Basics: Cornhole Championships and Tournaments
As you continue to master your skills, you may have an interest in participating in organized cornhole events. Various regional and national cornhole leagues and tournaments cater to players of all skill levels, so don’t hesitate to test your abilities against other players and potentially win prizes! However, you’ll likely want to learn some ways to take your skills to a higher level before you compete.
- RUSTIC DESIGN: Join the classic fun of cornhole with this unique set featuring printed steel framed barnwood graphics; Boards are made to look like real barnwood planks for a stylish farmhouse...
- COMPLETE CORNHOLE SET: Includes 2 premium regulation size 4 x 2 ft boards, 8 all-weather regulation size (6 x 6 inch) and weight (1 lb each) bean bags (4 red, 4 blue), carrying case, and game rules
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- ALL-WEATHER BEAN BAGS: Includes 8 premium regulation size bean bags (4 red + 4 blue, no logos) with a heavy-duty tote bag for easy portability and neat storage
- SET INCLUDES: (2) 2’x3’ MBF portable cornhole boards (boards are not weather-proof), (8) 16oz all-weather bean bags.
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- 100% SOLID WOOD: Premium handcrafted regulation size 4 feet x 2 feet boards made using pine wood frames and featuring mitered corner joints for authentic gameplay
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- [Value Pack] - The cornhole board set includes 2 premium quality 4 feet x 2 feet regulation corn hole boards, 8 all-weather bean bags, portable carrying case and instructions. When not in use, you can...
- [Upgraded Boards] - Our professional 4x2 cornhole boards are made of high quality Solid Wood, and thicken the legs and frame, more stable for play. What's more, We put stickers on the front and back...
- [Easy Carrying] - The foldable legs of the corn hole game toss board are very easy to set up and helpful for saving space when storage. The reinforced lifting handles on the side of the boards can...
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- TAILGATE APPROVED: Two 2' x 3' cornhole boards play just as competitively as their full-size cousins, but are smaller, lighter, and more portable - perfect for tailgating
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- INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAY: (8) premium cloth 12 oz. 6" x 6" bean bags in two different team colors
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Smooth laminated sliding surface and rugged reinforced corners and sides to withstand seasons of playtime (this item is MDF, not weather resistant)
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- Play a cornhole game any time of the day or night with the EastPoint Sports Light-Up Bean Bag Toss. Team up or go head-to-head in friendly nighttime outdoor competition.
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- This bean bag toss game includes 2 compact targets that measure 23.5” (L) x 18” (W) and 8 light-up bean bags in 2 team colors (Blue and Green). Throw, score and win.
- Lightweight folding corn hole game is great for the lawn, park or tailgating party. Portable carry handles and inner storage compartments make it easy to travel with. Store inside.
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- TRAVEL SIZE: Boards measure 2 ft x 1 ft x 8 in tall
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- ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR FUN: Experience outdoor action like never before with our top-tier cornhole board set. The thrill of basketball meets cornhole with this deluxe set, perfect for enthusiasts and...
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- BASKETBALL MEETS CORNHOLE: This never seen before, innovative outdoor/indoor game that merges basketball and cornhole boards. Included are two boards, 8 bean bags (4 red & 4 blue), a carrying tote,...
- SOLID WOOD CONSTRUCTION – Our Regulation Size Boards measure 4ftx2ft and are constructed from 100% Premium Wood, exceeding all ACA Regulation Standards. They're ready to be played with out of the...
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- 8 BEAN BAGS & CARRYING TOTE INCLUDED – Each Set comes with 8 Regulation Size Cornhole Bags (4 of each color). Bags Measure 6”x6” and are Filled with 15-16 ounces of Whole Kernel Corn. Made with...
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- [INNOVATION DESIGN] Exclusive innovative design, this Bean Bag Game can be assembled very quickly by flicking and sticking and stored very easy by tearing and stacking with a small footprint and...
- [LIGHT WEIGHT AND PORTABLE] With a weight of 2 kg and a length of 11inch*11inch*4inch after folding, this Corn Hole Boards are more lightweight and portable than other Cornhole Game in the market. A...
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Above all, remember that becoming a talented cornhole player takes time, practice, and a positive attitude. Keep refining your skills, learn from your mistakes, and consistently apply these beginner tips to elevate your game to new heights. With determination and persistence, you’ll soon be a formidable cornhole competitor.