How does a tug of war pull start?
B · Beginner · Pulling · 3 of 4When both coaches signal ready, the judge calls "Pick up the rope", then "Take the strain" to make the rope taut. Outdoors each puller may then make one foothold with the heel. At "Steady" the judge sets the centre mark over the centre line, and after a pause calls "Pull". Digging footholds before "Take the strain" is an infringement.
How it works
- Ready: both coaches signal.
- Pick up the rope.
- Take the strain: rope taut.
- Foothold: one each, outdoors.
- Steady: centre mark on the line.
- Pull: after a pause.
- Early footholds: infringement.
- Hand signals: for every command.
The glossary has the start procedure, the take the strain, the footholds, the judge, the judge's signals and the coach and trainer.
Tricky cases
Can pullers dig in before Take the strain?
No.
How many footholds at the start?
One each, outdoors.
Who sets the rope on the centre line?
The judge, at Steady.
Is the start the same indoors?
The commands are; there are no footholds.
Why the rule exists
A set sequence makes sure both teams start balanced over the line.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | Footholds | L R 27 |
| Early | Infringement | L R 14 |
| Steady | Centre set | L R 27 |
From the rule book
Tug of War International Federation (TWIF), Rules Manual (2026), rules 14 and 27 to 29. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: TWIF Rules Manual 2026.