Cornhole, or beanbag toss, is a classic outdoor game that’s perfect for parties, barbecues, and tailgates. It’s easy to learn and fun for players of all ages, and it can be played on any flat surface. The goal of the game is to score points by tossing beanbags into a raised hole, or “cornhole,” at the other end of the playing area. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
To play cornhole, you’ll need two cornhole boards, eight beanbags (four of each color), and two players or two teams of two players. The boards are placed 27 feet apart, facing each other. The players stand behind their boards and take turns tossing beanbags at the opposite board. The bags are tossed underhand, and they must land on the board or in the hole. If a bag lands on the board, it is worth 1 point. If a bag lands in the hole, it is worth 3 points. The first team to reach 21 points wins the game.
Cornhole is a simple game to learn, but it can be challenging to master. There are a few tips that can help you improve your game. First, practice your toss. The more you practice, the more accurate you will become. Second, learn how to control the spin of the bag. A well-thrown bag will land flat on the board or in the hole. Third, be aware of the wind. The wind can affect the trajectory of the bag, so be sure to adjust your toss accordingly. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the art of cornhole and become a champion beanbag tosser.
Setup and Materials
Materials Required:
To engage in a thrilling game of corn toss, you’ll need the following essential components:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornhole Boards | 2 |
| Bean Bags | 8 (4 of each color) |
Setup Instructions:
-
Establish the Playing Field: Begin by setting up the cornhole boards at a distance of 27 feet (8.23 meters) apart. The boards should face each other with their front edges parallel.
-
Define the Pitching Area: Determine the pitching area for each team. This area should be directly in front of each cornhole board and extend 2 feet (0.6 meters) to the side and 10 feet (3 meters) forward.
-
Mark the Foul Line: Create a foul line for each team. This line should be located 22 feet (6.71 meters) away from the back edge of each cornhole board.
-
Set Up the Scoring Zone: Designate the scoring zone on each cornhole board. This zone typically measures 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) wide and extends the full width of the board. It’s located 20 inches (50.8 centimeters) from the back edge of the board.
-
Prepare the Bean Bags: Ensure that the bean bags are filled with either corn or resin pellets. They should weigh approximately 1 pound (0.45 kilograms) and measure 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) square.
Gameplay Overview
Cornhole, also known as beanbag toss or baggo, is a game of skill and chance played between two teams of two players each. The objective of the game is to score points by tossing beanbags into a raised hole on a wooden board called a cornhole board. The game is played on a rectangular court with a cornhole board at each end.
Gameplay Details
To start the game, each team takes turns tossing four beanbags from a designated distance towards the opposite board. Players can toss the beanbags underhand or overhand, but they must keep their feet behind the front edge of the court. The beanbags can land on the board or in the hole. Landing a beanbag on the board scores one point, while landing a beanbag in the hole scores three points.
Scoring System
The game continues until one team reaches the winning score, typically 15 or 21 points. The winning team is the first to score the winning score or the team with the highest score after a predetermined number of innings (usually 10 or 12).
| Action | Points |
|---|---|
| Beanbag lands on the board | 1 point |
| Beanbag lands in the hole | 3 points |
Rules of Corn Toss
Corn toss, also known as beanbag toss, is a fun and easy game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The game is played with two teams of two players each. The object of the game is to be the first team to score 21 points.
Scoring
There are three ways to score points in corn toss:
- Landing a bag on the board: 1 point
- Landing a bag in the hole: 3 points
- Landing a bag on the ground: 0 points
The first team to score 21 points wins the game. If both teams score 21 points at the same time, the game goes into overtime. In overtime, the first team to score 2 points wins the game.
Equipment
To play corn toss, you will need the following equipment:
- Two cornhole boards
- Eight beanbags (four of one color for each team)
The cornhole boards are typically made of wood and are 2 feet wide by 4 feet long. The hole is located in the center of the board and is 6 inches in diameter.
Gameplay
To play corn toss, the two teams stand facing each other, 20-25 feet apart. Each team takes turns tossing four beanbags at the opposite team’s board. The team that scores the most points in a round gets to toss first in the next round.
The game continues until one team wins.
| Throw | Points |
|---|---|
| On the board | 1 point |
| In the hole | 3 points |
| On the ground | 0 points |
Scoring and Winning
In corn toss, the goal is to score points by landing beanbags on the target board. Each board has four designated areas, each with a corresponding point value:
| Area | Points |
|---|---|
| Center Hole | 3 |
| Top Platform | 2 |
| Side Platform | 1 |
| Ground (Missing the Board) | 0 |
To win a game of corn toss, players or teams must reach a certain score or win the best of a predetermined number of rounds. The most common winning score is 21 points, and games are typically played in rounds of five or seven throws per team. The first team to reach the winning score wins the game.
If the score is tied at the end of a round, an overtime round is played. In overtime, each team takes turns throwing one beanbag until one team scores a point, which wins the round and the game.
Tips for Scoring and Winning
* Aim for the center hole for the highest point value, but don’t be afraid to aim for the top or side platforms if you have a better chance of making those shots.
* Pay attention to the wind, as it can affect the trajectory of your beanbags.
* Practice your throw to improve your accuracy and distance.
* Don’t give up if you’re behind, as comebacks are always possible in corn toss.
Techniques for Throwing
Positioning and Aiming
Stand sideways to the target, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold the beanbag in your throwing hand, bringing it behind your head. Aim at the top of the board to ensure it has a good chance of landing in the target area.
Overhand Throw
Bring your arm back, keeping your elbow high. Swing forward and release the beanbag at the peak of your swing. Aim for a trajectory that arcs slightly above the target.
Underhand Throw
Hold the beanbag in a relaxed grip and bring it slightly below your waist. Swing your arm forward, keeping it low to the ground. Release the beanbag just before your arm reaches the target.
Sidearm Throw
Similar to the overhand throw, but with your arm held higher to your side. Swing your arm down in a diagonal motion, releasing the beanbag at the highest point of your swing.
Advanced Techniques
| Throw Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Curved Throw | Release the beanbag with a slight spin to make it curve towards the target. |
| Skip Throw | Throw the beanbag at a low trajectory so that it skips off the ground into the target |
| Hook Throw | Throw the beanbag with significant spin to make it hook in the air and land on the target |
Strategy and Tactics
Positioning and Aiming
The key to success in corn toss is finding the optimal throwing angle and distance. Stand perpendicular to the target and adjust your aim based on the wind direction and distance.
Bag Rotation
As you throw the bag, rotate it slightly to increase its accuracy and stability in the air.
Wrist Flick
Use a slight flick of the wrist at the end of your throw to add distance and accuracy.
Distance Control
Practice throwing the bag with varying distances to develop a consistent range of shots.
Wind Adjustment
Strong winds can significantly affect the trajectory of the bag. Adjust your angle and speed accordingly to compensate for wind conditions.
Advanced Technique: Underhand Throw
For added accuracy and control, try the underhand throw. Hold the bag with your palm facing down, slightly below your shoulder. Swing your arm from back to front, releasing the bag at its peak.
| Underhand Throw | |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | Improved |
| Distance | Reduced |
| Control | Increased |
Variations and Game Types
Traditional Corn Toss
The classic corn toss game involves two teams of two players standing 27 feet apart, tossing beanbags into holes on a raised platform. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
Reverse Corn Toss
In this variation, the holes are placed in the ground instead of on a platform. Players stand 12 feet apart and toss beanbags into the holes from below.
Cornhole Targets
Instead of using a raised platform with holes, this variation uses flat targets with beanbag-sized holes cut out. Players stand 21 feet apart and toss beanbags into the holes.
Horseshoe Corn Toss
This variation combines horseshoe and corn toss. Players stand 20 feet apart and toss beanbags around horseshoe stakes. The first team to reach 25 points wins.
Skunk Corn Toss
A more challenging variation, skunk corn toss involves players trying to avoid scoring points. The first player to reach or exceed the Skunk number (typically 25) loses.
Team Corn Toss
In this variation, multiple teams of two or more players compete. The rules remain the same, but the game can become more strategic and competitive.
Blindfold Corn Toss
For a fun and challenging twist, players can toss beanbags while blindfolded. This variation requires more skill and coordination.
Cornhole Boards for Different Skill Levels
Choosing the right cornhole boards can significantly impact your gameplay experience. Depending on your skill level, here are some factors to consider:
Beginner Boards:
For beginners, boards with a wider hole (6 inches) and a shallower dish (4 inches) are recommended. These boards provide a more forgiving target, making it easier to land bags on the board.
Intermediate Boards:
As your skills improve, opt for boards with a narrower hole (4 inches) and a deeper dish (6 inches). This increases the challenge level and encourages more precise throws.
Advanced Boards:
Seasoned players prefer boards with a regulation-sized hole (3 inches) and a deep dish (8 inches). These boards demand pinpoint accuracy and reward skillful shots.
Here’s a table summarizing the recommended dimensions for cornhole boards based on skill level:
| Skill Level | Hole Size (inches) | Dish Depth (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 6 | 4 |
| Intermediate | 4 | 6 |
| Advanced | 3 | 8 |
Etiquette and Safety
Etiquette
Corn toss is considered a casual and social game, but there are some etiquette guidelines to ensure a fun and respectful experience for all players.
- Respect your opponents: Be courteous and avoid trash-talking or gloating.
- Take turns: Each player or team should take turns throwing the bags, even if they are not doing well.
- Don’t hog the line: When it’s your turn, step back behind the line and let others play.
- Avoid distractions: Don’t chat or engage in other activities that could disrupt the game.
- Be a good sport: Whether you win or lose, congratulate your opponents and shake their hands.
Safety
Corn toss is generally a safe game, but there are some basic safety precautions to consider:
- Keep the area clear: Make sure the playing area is free of obstacles and tripping hazards.
- Wear proper shoes: Flip-flops or sandals are not recommended as they can be slippery or cause injury.
- Don’t throw the bags overhand: This can increase the risk of injury, especially to the shoulder.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to other players and avoid swinging your arms too close to them.
- Respect the boundaries: Don’t cross the playing field or enter the other team’s zone.
- Cool down: If you or someone else becomes overheated or fatigued, take a break and cool down.
- First aid: Have a basic first aid kit on hand in case of any minor injuries.
- Know your limits: Don’t overexert yourself, especially if you are not used to playing corn toss.
- Be mindful of children: If children are playing, supervise them carefully and ensure they follow the safety guidelines.
Materials:
You’ll need two cornhole boards, eight bean bags (four of each color), tape or chalk for marking the playing area, and something to keep score (like a whiteboard or score sheet).
Setup:
Place the cornhole boards 27 feet apart, facing each other. Mark a throwing line 15 feet from each board. The boards should be level and the throwing line should be parallel to the boards.
Gameplay:
Divide into two teams of two players each. One team throws all four of their bean bags, then the other team throws their four bags. Players alternate turns throwing bags until all eight bags have been thrown.
Scoring:
A bag that lands on the board is worth 1 point. A bag that goes through the hole is worth 3 points. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
Winning:
The team that reaches 21 points wins. If the game is tied at 21, the teams play an extra round to determine the winner.
Tips:
- Practice: The more you practice, the better you’ll become at throwing bags.
- Aim for the hole: It’s worth 3 points, so it’s worth trying to aim for it.
- Don’t be afraid to block: If your opponent is about to throw a bag through the hole, try to block it with one of your bags.
- Use the wind to your advantage: If the wind is blowing in your favor, use it to help you throw your bags further.
- Have fun: Cornhole is a great game to play with friends and family.
Tips for Hosting a Corn Toss Tournament
If you’re hosting a corn toss tournament, here are a few tips to help you make it a success:
Plan ahead
Make sure you have enough boards, bags, and supplies on hand. You’ll also need to set up a playing area and make sure you have a way to keep score.
Set up a bracket
This will help you keep track of the teams and determine the winner.
Provide food and drinks
Keep your guests hydrated and energized with some snacks and drinks.
Play some music
This will help create a festive atmosphere.
Have some fun
Cornhole is a great game to play with friends and family, so make sure you have some fun and enjoy yourself.
How to Play the Corn Toss Game
Corn toss, also known as beanbag toss or baggo, is a popular outdoor game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The game is played with two teams of two players each. Each team has four beanbags, and the goal of the game is to score points by tossing the beanbags into a target hole on the other team’s platform.
To set up the game, place two platforms about 20 feet apart. Each platform should have a hole in the center that is about 6 inches in diameter. The teams should then take turns tossing their beanbags at the target hole on the other team’s platform. Teams take turns so neither team has an advantage.
To toss a beanbag, stand behind the throwing line and toss the beanbag underhand towards the target hole. The beanbags can be tossed with either hand, but most people find it easier to toss with their dominant hand.
Scoring:
– 3 points: The beanbag lands in the hole.
– 1 point: The beanbag lands on the platform but not in the hole.
– 0 points: The beanbag misses the platform.
The game is played to 21 points, and the first team to reach 21 points wins. If the game is tied at 20 points, the game continues until one team wins by two points.
