How To: Your First Cornhole Practice - A guide for Novices

If you are just starting your cornhole journey and have no idea where to begin start here.

Starting your cornhole journey can be both exciting and challenging. With the right guidance, you'll avoid common mistakes and improve your skills quickly. As an experienced cornhole player, I'm here to help you get started on the right foot and ensure you have a solid foundation to build on. Let's dive into your first practice session and get you throwing like a pro in no time!

Before we jump into the detailed steps, remember that consistency is key. Practice regularly and focus on making small improvements each time.

If you have a little experience, a somewhat flat spinning bag and get a couple of points every round this blog is not for you.

Step One

Set up the boards at regulation length, precisely 27 feet from front edge to front edge. It is going to feel like they are very far away. You will get used to the distance very quickly. 

Using three sets of bags (12 bags in total or the bags you have), Throw all the bags with the goal of hitting the board everytime. Walk to the other side and repeat. Do not worry about the bag going into the hole or flying off the back of the board. Just try to hit the board every throw. Continue until you hit the board at least 50% of the time.

Why do I need a flat spinning bag? 

A Flat spinning bag is the only way to achieve true accuracy and consistency in your throw. It also allows you to decide what side of the bag you want to hit the board. Obviously every bag has 2 sides, but something you might not know is they use different fabric for each side. So there is a fast side and a slow side. When you become more advanced you will use these different sides to achieve different things (Slide, Roll, Cut and many other things). The most important part of cornhole is getting the bag in the hole. The easiest way to achieve this is with a flat spinning bag. 

Step two

How to get a flat spinning bag. 

First, never throw the bag like a frisbee. This will destroy your arm and wrist in a very short period of time. 

Ultimately all you have to do is swing your arm toward the hole as you move your wrist and hand so you release the bag with your Palm facing up.

Go to YouTube and type “how to get a flat spinning bag in cornhole”. You will find many videos. Now decide what movements you want to mimic. (I will have my own video shortly)

Once you have a throw that feels good and the bag is flat and spinning, continue throwing the 3 sets of bags for about 45 minutes. At this point in time only concentrating on a flat spinning bag. Do not worry about getting points, hitting the board or even getting close to the board. 

Now do another 45 minutes and start concentrating on hitting the board and getting points. Keep on experimenting and practicing your throw until you have a flat spinning bag that hits the board at least 50% of the time. Once you do go and play a couple of games on the practice app "Beyond Boards and Bags"

Keep practicing regularly and focus on these fundamental tips. You'll see significant improvements in your cornhole game in no time. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy practicing!