Like a Pro! Measure Your Perfect Cornhole Board Distance Every Step of the Way

Want to hit your target every time? Achieving that “like a pro” cornhole score starts long before the first throw—beginning with measuring the perfect board distance. Cornhole, the classic lawn game of skill and strategy, relies heavily on precise distances to ensure fair play and optimal performance. Whether you're a casual player or dreaming of tournament victory, mastering how to calculate and adjust your cornhole board distance is key.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from setting up your court correctly to fine-tuning measurements for accuracy. Let’s dive in and equip you with the knowledge to measure your perfect cornhole board distance every step of the way.

Understanding the Context


Why Measuring Board Distance Matters

The distance between the cornhole boards dictates how far your coin needs to fly to land in the target zone. Even slight variations can throw off scoring, consistency, and overall enjoyment. By measuring the perfect distance, you ensure fair competition, consistent gameplay, and greater accuracy—qualities that define a pro cornhole experience.

Whether playing with friends in the backyard or preparing for a competitive match, knowing how to measure distance means:

Key Insights

  • Optimizing shot power for reliable hits
  • Standardizing your setup for tournaments
  • Comparing boards and equipment accurately
  • Improving training effectiveness by replicating pro-level distances

Cornhole Court Dimensions: What You Need to Know

Before measuring, familiarize yourself with standard cornhole court specs. The most common dimensions are:

  • Distance between boards: Typically 9 feet (27 inches) center-to-center
  • Target zone width: 9 inches per side (inner and outer rings)
  • Board width: Usually 2 feet (24 inches) wide

Final Thoughts

This standard layout helps establish target zones where “experts” often stand for consistency—around the 7 to 8-foot mark from each board.


Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring the Perfect Cornhole Board Distance

Step 1: Choose Your Setup Location

Find a flat, clear outdoor space with even ground. Cornhole boards should be placed on a level surface free from obstructions to ensure straight-line shots.

Step 2: Position Your Boards Correctly

Set both boards apart 9 feet center-to-center. Use a measuring tape and note the starting point for precision.

Step 3: Measure the Target Zone Line

Stand at your intended playing position—around 7 to 8 feet from one board—and mark where the center of the target zone begins on the far board. This alignment ensures consistency.

Step 4: Measure the Zero Distance

From the back server line (the line behind the board furthest from the target), measure horizontally from the back edge to the outer ring’s alignment—this sets your reference baseline.

Step 5: Use a Laser or Tape Measure Precision Tool

For professional accuracy, a laser distance measurer minimizes human error. A high-quality tape measure with millimeter markings also works well if used carefully.

Step 6: Calculate Your Optimal Board Distance

While 9 feet center-to-center is standard, refine your measurement by averaging your successful shot distance across multiple tries. Adjust slightly if needed (typically +/- ½ inch) for personal comfort or terrain.

Step 7: Mark Your Target Zone

Using your final distance measurement, draw or tape a circular target zone centered on the outer ring’s midpoint. Professional boards often follow 7 to 8 feet from the boards—adjust based on your data.