Put a balloon between your hand and the wrench. :B
This is the plumbing fitting to which the anode is attached that we're discussing?
Here's what I do: after removing the plug, I clean the threads of the plug. I use a wire wheel on a bench grinder. I inspect the tank threads and if they're nasty, I chase the threads with a pipe nipple. I pretty much use Teflon tape on these types of fittings. Tape it, turn it back in until snug, and test with a tank of water. This is the perfect time for you to experiment with your own personal "torque". Start loose and tighten in increments until no water drips.
