The USGA and The R&A, golf's governing bodies, have adopted changes to Rule 14-1 of the Rules of Golf that prohibit anchoring the club in making a stroke. The new Rule will go into effect on January 1, 2016, in accordance with the regular four-year cycle for changes to the Rules of Golf.
Rule 14-1b focuses only on the method of stroke; it does not limit the conforming equipment that may be used. While making a stroke, a player may not anchor the club (i) "directly" or (ii) indirectly through use of an "anchor point". These concepts are explained in the Rule:
Rule 14-1b - In making a stroke, the player must not anchor the club, either "directly" or by use of an "anchor point".
Note 1: The club is anchored "directly" when the player intentionally holds the club or a gripping hand in contact with any part of his body, except that the player may hold the club or gripping hand against a hand or forearm.
Note 2: An "anchor point" exists when the player intentionally holds a forearm in contact with any part of his body to establish a gripping hand as a stable point around which the other hand may swing the club.
Penalty: Match Play - Loss of Hole; Stroke Play - Two Strokes
Important Links:
Implementation of Rule 14-1b
- Information for players, club officials and tournament administrators on playing in conformance with Rule 14-1b.
Rule 14-1b: Permitted Strokes
- Take a look at some of the strokes that will be permitted following the Rule change on January 1, 2016.
Rule 14-1b: Prohibited Strokes
- Take a look at some of the strokes that will be prohibited following the Rule change on January 1, 2016.
Infographic: Understanding Anchored Strokes
- This infographic provides insightful information on the details surrounding Rule 14-1b. We encourage you to share this with your fellow golfers.