A Beginner's Guide on How to Play Cornhole
Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a popular outdoor game that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a fun and engaging activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a perfect addition to backyard gatherings, picnics, and tailgate parties. This article serves as a comprehensive guide for beginners who want to learn how to play cornhole and enhance their skills in this exciting game.
Setting up the Cornhole Board Start by setting up the cornhole board, which consists of two elevated platforms with a hole at one end. Place the boards about 27 feet apart from each other, which is the standard regulation distance for competitive play. Make sure they are stable and securely positioned on a flat surface.
Understanding the Equipment Cornhole requires minimal equipment. Each player or team will need four cornhole bags, usually made of cloth or canvas, filled with corn or plastic pellets. The bags are typically different colors to differentiate between teams. Ensure that the bags are of regulation size and weight, weighing around 14-16 ounces and measuring 6x6 inches.
Mastering the Basic Gameplay The objective of cornhole is to toss your bags into the hole or land them on the board to earn points. The game is played in rounds, with each team taking turns throwing their bags. The team or player that scores the most points at the end of the round wins.
Scoring: A bag that goes through the hole is worth three points, while a bag that lands on the board without going through the hole is worth one point. Bags that hit the ground or bounce off the board do not count and are removed from play.
Cancelling Points: In cornhole, cancellation scoring is used. This means that if one team scores points, the opposing team has the chance to cancel out those points by scoring higher. Only the difference in points is awarded to the team with the higher score for that round.
Perfecting Your Technique To excel at cornhole, focus on honing your throwing technique. Stand behind the board and throw the bags underhand, aiming to land them on the board or slide them into the hole. Experiment with different grips and release points to find what works best for you. Develop a consistent throwing motion, ensuring proper weight transfer and follow-through for accuracy and control.
Strategies and Game Variations As you become more comfortable with the game, you can start developing strategies to outsmart your opponents. Consider strategic blocking, aiming to place bags in front of the hole to hinder your opponent's throws. You can also strategize by aiming for certain areas of the board or adjusting your throws based on your opponent's bag placement.
Additionally, there are various game variations to explore, such as playing in teams of two or three, increasing or decreasing the distance between boards, or even incorporating fun challenges like blindfolded throws or using your non-dominant hand.
- Enjoy the Social Aspect and Have Fun Cornhole is not just about the competition; it's also a fantastic social activity. Enjoy the camaraderie and friendly banter with your fellow players. Embrace the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere while improving your skills.
With its simple rules, minimal equipment, and inclusive nature, cornhole is a game that can be enjoyed by everyone, from beginners to seasoned players. By following this beginner's guide, you'll have the tools and knowledge to start playing and enjoying the excitement of cornhole. So gather your friends, set up the boards, and let the bean bags fly as you embark on a fun-filled journey into the world of cornhole.