When lifting a load, bend from the?

• A. knees and lift with the legs
• B. Back and arms
• C. Waist and shoulders
• D. Hips and knees

Answer: (A)

When lifting a load, bend from the knees and lift with the legs. Using the leg muscles to raise the weight keeps the spine in a neutral position and keeps the load close to your center of gravity, which greatly reduces strain on the back. The legs are larger, stronger muscle groups that can handle the effort, so the risk of back injury is much lower when you squat down to pick up the load and stand up by straightening the knees and hips together.

In contrast, bending from the back or waist places more stress on the spine and the supporting muscles, increasing the chance of a strain or injury. Lifting with the shoulders or upper body also shifts the effort away from the stronger leg muscles and toward the back, which is not ideal for safety.