Golf finally drops the anchor, but long isn't gone!

The most controversial rule change of this century so far is finally upon us and will affect many of you - anchoring to the body is no longer permitted.

Below are some shots of the rules you can adopt if you wish to continue to use your long putter:

1) A long or belly putter can still be used providing your hands swing freely (photos 2 and 3) and you do not anchor the end of the club's grip against your body (as seen in photo 1) or intentionally hold the forearm of the top gripping hand against your body.

2) It is permissible to hold your forearm against the side of your body to hit the putt, provided your hands are not separated and working independently from each other and that the putter is swung freely (photo 4).

3) You can adopt the 'side saddle' technique (putting facing the hole) provided your hands swing freely and you do not anchor the putter or hold your forearm against your body to create an anchor point (photo 5).

4) You are, however, permitted to hold the club against your hand or forearm provided the hands swing freely. The forearm is defined as part of the arm below the elbow joint and includes the wrist. This is the technique Matt Kuchar uses (photo 6).

Come and have a chat with us in the pro shop if you would like any advice on the best grip for your game, or click here to get in touch.