Both elbows on elbow pads; non-pulling hand grips peg; Grip set by competitors with referee assist (referee may center the grip if needed); Wrists straight, thumb knuckles visible, shoulders square to table
Why people argue about this
People often assume that competitors can choose their starting position freely, thinking they have maximum control over how they set up for a match. However, the official rule specifies exact positions like elbows on pads, wrists straight, and shoulders square to the table, which leads to arguments when players feel their setup is more natural or advantageous.
