Lifting properly not only protects your body, but allows you to lift more weight safely. Lifting correctly is something that has to be learnt rather than coming naturally. It involves a great deal of body awareness which comes through repition and guidance. The basics of good lifting technqiue involve:
- Good Posture (pelvic neutral, knees slightly bent, chest out etc)
- Lifting with your knees and hips – never your back and sometimes your arms.
- Keeping the object close to your body
- Using your body weight where possible
- Avoiding twisting – back, knees, hips etc
- Setting up the environment prior to the lift
- Wearing good footwear
- Having good balance
- Maintaining good fitness and strength
- Using other people or assistive devices where possible.