What does the anchor do in tug of war?
I · Intermediate · Pulling · 2 of 5The anchor is the last puller. The rope runs along the body, diagonally across the back and over the opposite shoulder from back to front, with the slack passing under the armpit and running free. Both arms hold the standing rope forward. The anchor may keep the rope below the belt for safety. Any other hold is an anchor position fault.
How it works
- Who: last puller.
- Rope: across the back.
- Shoulder: opposite, back to front.
- Slack: under the armpit, free.
- Arms: forward on the rope.
- Below the belt: allowed for safety.
- Padding: up to 5 cm.
- Other holds: fault.
The glossary has the anchor, the anchor position fault, the anchor protection, the locking, the pulling position and the protective belt.
Tricky cases
Can the anchor tie the rope round the waist?
No. That is locking.
Can the rope sit below the anchor's belt?
Yes, for safety.
Can the anchor vest weigh 6 kg?
The recommended limit is 5 kg.
Is a wrong anchor hold a team fault?
Yes. The team is guilty.
Why the rule exists
Letting the slack run free stops the anchor tying the team to the rope.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Anchor | Shoulder hold | L R 13 |
| Fault | Anchor position | L R 14 |
| Pad | 5 cm | L R 8.1 |
From the rule book
Tug of War International Federation (TWIF), Rules Manual (2026), rules 8.1, 13 and 14. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: TWIF Rules Manual 2026.