What is the proper method for lifting heavy objects?

Lifting with your legs is the proper method for handling heavy objects because it utilizes the strong muscles in your legs and reduces the risk of back injury. When you bend at the knees, keeping your back straight and using the strength of your legs to lift, you maintain better posture and leverage. This technique helps to distribute the weight more evenly and minimizes strain on the back, which is particularly vulnerable during lifting motions.

Using your back or bending at the waist can lead to improper posture that places excessive stress on the spinal column and surrounding muscles, increasing the likelihood of injury. Relying solely on your arms also neglects the stronger leg muscles and could result in overexertion of the upper body, which is not designed for heavy lifting. Therefore, lifting with your legs is the safest and most efficient method to handle heavy loads.