How to Lift Heavy Objects

Every once in the while, we have to lift an heavy object. And this usually when we are moving, which often involves lifting heavy boxes and other objects. Most people do not know how to lift properly, and this is dangerous, because you could end up with a hernia or back problems. Between 75 to 80 percent of people will experience back pain in their lives Remember that the lower body is always stronger than the upper body

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• proper bending technique
• a weight lifting belt
• maybe a partner

1. If you are lifting something off the ground fifty pounds or more, you should spread your legs shoulder width a part, bend your legs

2. Grab something that can be tilted or latched on to with your hands and manoeuvred to where you have a steady grip.

3. Concentrate on lifting the heavy object, with your legs, instead of your back. Once the object is at weight level, is when the upper body strength may come into play. Remember to inhale and exhale while lifting.

Tips & Warnings

• for really heavy jobs, have a lifting partner
• in case you have to lift heavy objects constantly, it is best to wear a weightlifting belt, which stabilizes your back, and forces you to use your back
• remember to breath in and out
• make sure you take frequent breaks, when there is a lot of moving to be done
• never bend to pick up some thing with your back, always bend your knees, and let your legs lift--your legs and hips are stronger than the upper body
• many people suffer from back pain, and large percentage of these come from lifting inproperly

[simply-me]

on 6/5/2009 this is useful and I have shared with some people, many thanks

[harvard]

on 5/30/2009 Good tips on lifting brake rotors, boxes of antifreeze, brake pads, starters, alternators, and (hopefully), your wallet. Thank you, Friend!

[lorisoard]

on 5/13/2009 Great advice. My mom has had back problems, so I try to be careful. 5* and a recommend

[ladyt06]

on 5/10/2009 this is an accurate article! good job

[jerryb1]

on 4/20/2009 How to Lift Heavy Objects is right on! You will never look back and regret as long as you use your legs to do most of the heavy work that needs doing. Also, make use of a two wheel hand truck for as much of the transport of heavy objects as possible. That is even better than lifting anything that can be balanced on their two wheels.