THOUSAND OAKS, California (AP) ― Brace yourself ― just not your putter.

In a proposal that would affect every golfer from major champions to amateurs at their local clubs, the guardians of the 600-year-old sport want to write a new rule that would outlaw a putting stroke they fear is taking too much skill out of the game.

The U.S. Golf Association and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club said Wednesday they are not banning the belly putter or the longer “broom-handle” putters ― only the way they are used.

The proposed rule would prohibit golfers at all levels from anchoring a club against their bodies while making a stroke.

The rule would not take effect until 2016.

“We believe a player should hold the club away from his body and swing it freely,” USGA executive director Mike Davis said.

“Golf is a game of skill and challenge, and we think that’s an important part of it.”