Cornhole is more than just a backyard game—it’s a staple of tailgates, BBQs, and endless summer afternoons. And while it’s inherently casual and fun, there’s a particular satisfaction in being the champion of the woodgrain cornhole boards at every event you attend. But how do you go from tossing aimlessly to dominating the game?
Whether you're a beginner or an amateur player looking to up your game, this guide is packed with actionable strategies to help you become the MVP of backyard cornhole.
What is Cornhole?
Before we dive into the strategies, let's define the basics. Cornhole is a backyard game where players take turns tossing bags filled with beans (or corn) onto a raised board with a hole in it. Points are awarded based on where the bags land:
- 1 point for a bag on the board
- 3 points for a bag that goes through the hole
- No points for a bag that misses the board entirely
While the rules are simple, mastering the game takes skill, focus, and the right mindset. Now, let's move on to the strategies that can give you a competitive edge!
Choose the Right Equipment
Your equipment can make or break your cornhole performance. Invest in high-quality wooden boards made to regulation size (2 feet by 4 feet). Woodgrain cornhole boards, in particular, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide the perfect surface for consistent bag slides and bounces. Look for bags filled with high-quality resin and with slick and sticky sides for control.
If you’re hosting a tailgate cornhole event, consider boards that are collapsible for easy transport—you’ll thank us later!
Pro Tip:
Customize your cornhole board! Adding your team’s logo, initials, or a unique design is a fun way to show personality and boost excitement at every event.
Perfect Your Stance
Your stance is your foundation for a good toss. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly forward. Keep your knees loose and avoid locking them. This balanced position will stabilize your motions and ensure more consistent throws.
Practice Tip:
Use a mirror or record yourself tossing to check if your stance is consistent before every throw.
Master Your Grip and Release
The way you grip the bag can dramatically affect its trajectory. Avoid gripping it too tightly—this can cause the bag to wobble mid-air. Instead, hold the bag with your thumb and fingertips, leaving the center loose. Ensure your arm follows through during your release, pointing toward the board. A smooth rotation (but not heavy spin) will help the bag land flat on the surface.
Pro Tip:
Focus on your wrist movement—it should remain steady and straight as you release the bag.
Aim for the Slide Shot
While every cornhole player dreams of a perfect swish (when the bag goes directly through the hole), aiming for a slide shot (where the bag lands on the board and slides into the hole) is often more reliable. This technique leverages the slickness of woodgrain cornhole boards to your advantage.
Practice Tip:
Set up markers on the board (like tape or chalk) to target specific landing zones.
Decide on Strategy—Offense or Defense?
Cornhole isn’t just about scoring points; sometimes, blocking your opponent can be more effective. If you’re leading, focus on defensive throws to block the hole or push their bags off the board. If you’re trailing, go for aggressive slide shots to rack up points quickly.
It’s all about reading the game and knowing when to adapt your approach.
Play with the Wind
Outdoor games like cornhole often come with unpredictable wind conditions. Instead of letting it throw you off, learn to use it to your advantage. Notice how the wind affects your throws—does it push the bag left or right? Adjust accordingly by aiming slightly against the wind.
Tip for those hosting tailgate cornhole events in open parking lots—position your boards to minimize the wind's impact on the game.
Build Muscle Memory
Success in cornhole is often attributed to consistency. Muscle memory is key to achieving identical throws every time. This can only be achieved through deliberate practice.
Practice Tip:
Throw 50–100 times every day. Focus on repetition and small tweaks to improve accuracy.
Communicate with Your Teammate
Cornhole is often played in pairs, so teamwork matters! Discuss strategies with your partner—will they play offensively while you defend? Will they aim to knock off the opponent’s bags while you go for points? A cohesive strategy can outmatch even the most skilled individual players.
Fun Fact:
Professional cornhole leagues often place as much emphasis on teammate chemistry as they do on individual skills.
Practice Under Game Conditions
Practice is one thing, but playing under pressure is another. Simulate game scenarios by practicing with an audience or organizing mini-tournaments with friends or family. Tailgate cornhole competitions are excellent for testing your skills in a lively, unpredictable environment.
Bonus Tip:
Host a weekly cornhole night with other enthusiasts to hone your skills—and have fun while you’re at it!
Stay Mentally Focused
Cornhole requires intense focus. Avoid distractions by visualizing each throw before stepping up to the board. Block out the noise and chatter around you—save the after-throw trash talk for later!
Tip for Hosts:
Create a playlist for your cornhole games to set the mood. Whether you're into upbeat jams or chill vibes, your playlist can keep everyone in the zone.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Match
Now that you know how to dominate your next game of cornhole, it’s time to practice! Whether you’re playing casually at a BBQ or hosting a competitive tailgate cornhole event, these strategies will help you stand out. Remember—success comes from quality equipment, consistent practice, and a clever mix of offensive and defensive play.