This article was
written by ErgoRisk
Posted in: Back, Posture, Lifting
Printable Version: Awkward Posture.pdf
- Why is it that we can lift 100 pounds in one position but only 10 pounds in another?
- The key is that when our body is poorly positioned, muscles controlling our joints are not at their strongest length.
- Short or long muscles are weaker and have to work much harder than when using our muscles in good posture.
- Working harder (more force) means that your muscles are closer to their maximum and more likely to get strained.
- Try holding your hands over your head like the guy in the picture for two minutes. Your upper back muscles (in a shortened position) will quickly remind you to always look for ways to bring work into our comfort zone (between knees and chest).
- If your job requires that you work in awkward postures, look for ways to raise or lower your work in order to make it easier.
- If you can’t, find ways to take short, frequent breaks.
