What Is Cornhole? The Ultimate Guide to the Backyard Classic
Cornhole, also known as bean bag toss, is a lawn game where players or teams take turns tossing bags filled with corn kernels at a raised platform with a hole; the goal is to score points by landing bags on the platform or putting them through the hole, providing a fun and accessible pastime for all ages and skill levels, offering a compelling blend of easy-to-learn rules and competitive strategy.
A Brief History of Cornhole
The exact origins of cornhole are debated, but its roots trace back to 19th-century Germany or perhaps rural Kentucky. While many different regional variations existed, the modern version of the game as we know it gained significant popularity in the Midwest, particularly Ohio, starting in the late 20th century. Its simplicity and portability helped it spread rapidly, becoming a staple at backyard barbecues, tailgates, and even professional tournaments. Today, cornhole continues to evolve with organized leagues, national championships, and even television coverage.
The Benefits of Playing Cornhole
Beyond its sheer enjoyment, cornhole offers a range of benefits:
- Social Interaction: Cornhole is inherently social, promoting interaction and friendly competition among players.
- Accessibility: It’s a game virtually anyone can play, regardless of age or athletic ability.
- Portability: The game is easy to transport and set up, making it ideal for outdoor events.
- Stress Relief: The repetitive motion and focus required can be surprisingly relaxing.
- Cognitive Skills: Cornhole improves hand-eye coordination and strategic thinking.
How to Play Cornhole: The Rules and Gameplay
Playing cornhole is straightforward:
- Setup: Place the cornhole boards 27 feet apart (front edge to front edge). Shorter distances are permitted for casual play or younger players.
- Teams: Divide into two teams of one or two players each.
- Turns: Players take turns tossing their four bean bags at the opposite board.
- Scoring:
- Bag on the board (any part touching): 1 point
- Bag in the hole: 3 points
- Cancellation Scoring: Points are tallied after all eight bags have been thrown. The team with the higher score only earns the difference. For example, if Team A scores 5 points and Team B scores 2 points, Team A earns 3 points for that round.
- Winning: The first team to reach or exceed 21 points wins. The game must be completed in full innings; in other words, both teams must complete the round that leads to the winning score.
Cornhole Equipment: What You Need
- Cornhole Boards: Two regulation-sized boards (2′ x 4′) with a 6-inch diameter hole centered 9 inches from the top. The front edge of the board sits 12 inches off the ground, and the back edge, 4 inches.
- Cornhole Bags: Eight regulation-sized bags (6″ x 6″) weighing between 15-16 ounces, traditionally filled with corn kernels, but often using resin pellets for better durability and weather resistance.
- Measuring Tape (Optional): To ensure proper board distance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cornhole
- Improper Grip: Gripping the bag too tightly or loosely can affect accuracy.
- Inconsistent Stance: Developing a consistent stance is crucial for repeatable throws.
- Lack of Follow-Through: Not following through with your arm motion can cause the bag to sail wide.
- Throwing Too Hard: Cornhole is about finesse, not power.
- Ignoring Strategy: Consider blocking the hole, pushing bags into the hole, or preventing opponents from scoring.
Cornhole Strategy: Mastering the Game
While seemingly simple, cornhole involves strategic depth:
- Blocking: Placing a bag in front of the hole makes it harder for your opponent to score.
- Pushing: Use your bag to push your teammate’s or your own bag into the hole.
- Cutting: Aim to knock your opponent’s bag off the board.
- Defense: Prevent opponents from scoring by knocking their bags off the board, or placing a bag behind the hole to stop bags sliding off the back.
- Reading the Board: Pay attention to how the bags are landing and adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Know when to play aggressive vs. defensive: Use your judgement.
Variations on Cornhole
While the standard rules are widely accepted, many variations exist:
- Alternate Scoring: Some variations award different points for bags closer to the hole.
- Board Distance: Adjusting the board distance for children or casual play.
- Theme Games: Creating custom boards and bags to match specific events or interests.
Cornhole Tournaments and Leagues
Cornhole has evolved into a competitive sport with organized leagues and tournaments at local, regional, and national levels. The American Cornhole League (ACL) is the leading governing body, hosting tournaments with substantial prize money and television coverage. Many local bars and recreation centers also host weekly or monthly cornhole leagues, providing opportunities for players of all skill levels to compete.
Cornhole Terminology: Know the Lingo
Understanding common cornhole terms enhances the experience:
- Ace/Cornhole: A bag that goes directly into the hole (3 points).
- Woody: A bag that lands on the board (1 point).
- Foul: A bag that hits the ground before landing on the board. This bag is removed.
- Blocker: A bag positioned in front of the hole, preventing opponents from scoring.
- Slider: A bag that slides into the hole after landing on the board.
- Airmail: Throwing the bag directly into the hole, without touching the board.
- Wash: When the points for both teams cancel each other out, resulting in no points scored for that round.
- Skunk/Shutout: Winning a game with the opponent scoring zero points.
Customizing Your Cornhole Experience
Cornhole offers ample opportunities for customization. You can create custom boards with unique designs, logos, or themes. You can also personalize your cornhole bags with different colors, fabrics, and fillings. Many online retailers and local shops offer custom cornhole board and bag services. This allows you to express your personality and make your cornhole set truly unique.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the official dimensions of a cornhole board?
Regulation cornhole boards measure 2 feet by 4 feet (24″ x 48″). The hole is 6 inches in diameter and centered 9 inches from the top of the board and 12 inches from each side edge. The front edge of the board sits 12 inches off the ground, with the back edge at 4 inches.
What material are cornhole bags typically filled with?
Traditionally, cornhole bags were filled with dried corn kernels. However, many modern bags use resin pellets because they are more durable, less prone to attracting insects or mildew, and provide a more consistent weight and feel.
How far apart should the cornhole boards be placed?
For official gameplay, the front edges of the cornhole boards should be 27 feet apart. For casual games or children, you can reduce the distance to 21 feet or even less.
How much does a regulation cornhole bag weigh?
A regulation cornhole bag must weigh between 15 and 16 ounces. This ensures fair and consistent gameplay.
What’s the best way to grip a cornhole bag?
There’s no single “best” grip, but most players prefer a loose, comfortable grip with the bag resting in their palm. Experiment with different grips to find what feels most natural and accurate for you.
What does it mean to “airmail” a cornhole bag?
“Airmailing” refers to throwing the bag directly into the hole without it touching the board. This requires precision and a good understanding of trajectory and wind conditions.
How do you calculate the score in cornhole?
Scoring is based on cancellation. After all eight bags are thrown, the points are tallied. A bag on the board is worth 1 point, and a bag in the hole is worth 3 points. The team with the lower score subtracts their points from the team with the higher score. The resulting difference is the number of points the higher-scoring team earns for that round.
What is the difference between the ACL and the ACO?
The American Cornhole League (ACL) and the American Cornhole Organization (ACO) are both governing bodies in the sport. The ACL is generally considered the larger and more prominent organization, with more extensive tournaments and media coverage. Both organizations have their own sets of rules and rankings.
How can I improve my cornhole throwing technique?
Practice is key! Focus on developing a consistent stance, grip, and throwing motion. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Also, consider joining a local league or seeking guidance from experienced players.
Are there different types of cornhole bags for different playing conditions?
Yes, different bag materials and fillings affect their performance. Some bags are designed for stickier landings (good for blocking), while others are slicker and better for sliding. Consider the weather conditions and your playing style when choosing bags.
Can I use any type of board for cornhole?
While you can technically use any board, regulation-sized boards are recommended for fair and competitive play. Ensure the board is sturdy and has a smooth, consistent surface.
What is the best strategy for winning at cornhole?
A combination of skill and strategy is crucial. Focus on consistent throws, blocking the hole, pushing bags into the hole, and playing defensively to knock your opponent’s bags off the board. Adapt your strategy based on the board layout and your opponent’s play.