Cornhole is a popular lawn game that has been around for decades. It’s a game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a great option for family gatherings, parties, and other social events.
And it’s simple too! The game involves throwing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole in the center and the goal of getting the bean bag into the hole or landing it on the platform.
One of the most important aspects of playing cornhole is understanding the standard distance between the platforms. In regulation play, the distance between the front edges of the two platforms should be 27 feet. This is the distance that is used in official tournaments and competitions.
However, for casual play, the distance can be adjusted to fit the needs of the players.
But that’s not all you need to know about cornhole! So let’s cover everything from a basic understanding of the game to measuring distance and more.
Key Takeaways
- Cornhole is a popular lawn game that can be played by people of all ages and skill levels.
- In regulation play, the distance between the front edges of the two platforms should be 27 feet.
- For casual play, the distance can be adjusted to fit the needs of the players.
Understanding Cornhole
Cornhole is played with two boards, each with a hole in the center, and eight bean bags. The objective of the game is to toss the bean bags onto the board and into the hole, scoring points for each bag that lands on the board or in the hole.
As mentioned earlier, the standard distance for regulation cornhole is 27 feet between the front edges of the boards. This distance is measured from the edge of the board closest to the player, not from the center of the board.
It’s important to note that the distance between the boards can be adjusted for younger players or for those who are just learning the game. For example, children under the age of 10 may play with the boards set up at a distance of 21 feet or even shorter.
In addition to the distance between the boards, the height of the board is also important. The regulation height for the board is 12 inches from the ground to the top of the board. The hole in the center of the board should be 6 inches in diameter and centered 9 inches from the top of the board. These are standard sizes for most boards that you buy.
However, the ultimate goal of cornhole is to have fun. So if it’s easier and more enjoyable to play with the boards closer together, you should do that.
Cornhole at Different Distances
Let’s talk about some differences between the standard and more casual distances when playing cornhole.
Standard Cornhole Distance
The standard cornhole distance ensures that players have enough space to stand behind their board and throw their bags towards the opposite board.
And it’s important to note that these measurements may vary depending on the level of competition or the specific rules being followed. However, for casual play and most tournaments, the 27 feet distance between boards is the standard measurements to follow.
The measurement is taken from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other board. The boards should also be placed parallel to each other and the ground should be level.
If you’re really a stickler for the rules, you can use a measuring tape or other tool to confirm the distances before starting a game.
That way no one can claim cheating or unfair advantages if they lose. But outside of a tournament, let’s be honest that the real reason to play is to just have fun. Don’t take it too seriously.
Casual Play Distance
In casual play at a park or BBQ, the distance between the boards can vary. Some people may choose to place the boards closer together, especially if they are playing with children or beginners.
Others may place the boards farther apart to increase the challenge. However, it’s important to keep in mind that changing the distance between the boards can affect the difficulty level and may not accurately reflect the skill level of the players.
It’s also important to note that changing the distance between the boards can affect how long the game is played. For example, if the boards are placed closer together, it may be easier to score points, as getting the bag into the hole becomes much easier and the game goes by faster.
On the other hand, if the boards are placed farther apart, it may be more difficult to score points, as the bags will have more distance to travel and may be more affected by wind and other factors.
So if you only have one board and a long line of people to play and everyone is cool with shortening the distance, that can be a quick way to get lots of games in for everyone.
When to Change the Distance Between Boards
While we talked about the boards being more or less than 27 feet apart, there are also a few other reasons why you may want to set it up differently. So let’s talk about those now.
Player Skill Level
The skill level of the player is one of the most important factors that affect the distance between boards. Experienced players have better control over the toss and can throw the bag with more accuracy and power. They can also adjust their throw based on the distance between the boards and the wind conditions.
Novice players, on the other hand, may struggle to throw the bag with enough force and accuracy, resulting in shorter throws. Shortening the distance can help beginners build confidence and improve their aim. As they become more skilled, the distance can gradually be increased to the standard distance.
So take a quick poll and maybe readjust after playing a game or two. There’s no shame in shortening the distance between boards as long as everyone is having fun.
Playing Surface
The playing surface is another important factor that affects the distance apart. The surface of the boards should be smooth and level to ensure that the bag slides smoothly towards the board. Uneven or bumpy surfaces can cause the bag to bounce or roll, resulting in shorter throws.
Moreover, the type of surface also affects the bag’s speed and direction. For instance, a surface with more friction can slow down the bag, while a slippery surface can cause the bag to slide too far.
As a result, if your boards are older and maybe a bit warped or chipping, going with a shorter distance isn’t a bad idea. Makes the game a bit closer to basketball, but still a fun time.
In conclusion, the player’s skill level and the playing surface are crucial factors that affect cornhole distance. Experienced players can throw the bag with more accuracy and power, while a smooth and level surface ensures that the bag slides smoothly towards the board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some other frequently asked questions about cornhole, general rules, and setup.
What is the official distance between cornhole boards?
The official distance between cornhole boards is 27 feet. This is the distance used in official tournaments and competitions.
How far apart should cornhole boards be placed?
Cornhole boards should be placed 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge. This distance is measured from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other board. However, you can always go shorter if it would result in a more enjoyable game.
What are the regulation cornhole board dimensions?
Regulation cornhole boards should be 48 inches long and 24 inches wide. The front edge of the board should be 2-1/2 to 4 inches off the ground, and the back edge should be 12 inches off the ground.
How do you score in cornhole?
In cornhole, points are scored when a player successfully tosses a bag into the hole or lands a bag on the board. A bag in the hole is worth three points, while a bag on the board is worth one point. The first one to 21 or the player or team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
What are the basic rules of cornhole?
The basic rules of cornhole involve tossing bags at a raised platform with a hole in it. Players take turns tossing bags and earn points based on where the bags land. The game is typically played to 21 points, and the player or team with the highest score at the end of the game wins.
Is there a maximum number of points that can be scored in cornhole?
No, there is no maximum number of points that can be scored in cornhole. The game can go on indefinitely until a player or team reaches the winning score of 21 points. It all depends on how you decide to play.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the proper distance for cornhole is crucial for any player looking to improve their game or play in a professional setting. While the standard distance is 27 feet for traditional play, it is important to note that different variations of the game may require different distances.
Players should also take into consideration their own skill level and physical abilities when deciding on a distance to play at.
Additionally, players should ensure they are using regulation-sized boards and bags to ensure fair play and accurate measurements.
Overall, with the right equipment and knowledge of proper distance, players can enjoy a competitive and enjoyable game of cornhole.
