Whether you are a professional mover, a construction worker, an athlete, or someone who just needs to move items around their home, understanding the principles of kinetic lifting can help you lift heavy items with confidence…
In this blog, we will explore the secrets of kinetic lifting, taking a look at the safety tips and techniques you need to know to make sure you don’t injure yourself while lifting heavy items. We’ll discuss the importance of proper form and the best ways to lift. With the knowledge of our removals company in Bournemouth, you’ll be able to lift heavy items with ease and confidence. So, let’s get started!
Understanding Kinetic Lifting
Kinetic lifting is a technique of manual handling which reduces the risk of injury while lifting heavy objects. This method of lifting objects is used to avoid the common injuries associated with lifting, such as muscle strains, tendinitis, back and elbow injuries, spinal damage and injured knees.
Kinetic lifting techniques are designed to promote a good posture, enabling proper lifting and manoeuvring of the object with minimal risk of injury. These techniques require the user to take into account the weight of the object, their own physical strength and the correct positioning of the body to ensure that the object can be lifted safely. The user should also use their legs to lift the object, rather than their back, to reduce the risk of spinal damage. In addition, kinetic lifting requires the user to use their arms as a lever to provide extra stability and balance when lifting and manoeuvring the object.
By using kinetic lifting, the risk of injury is greatly reduced, allowing users to safely handle heavy objects without the need for machinery or tools.
How to Approach Moving Heavy Items With Kinetic Technique
When lifting a heavy item, it’s important to assess it first to determine whether it is a weight that can be safely managed. You can do this by kneeling in front of the item and sliding it gently from side to side. This will give you a good indication of how heavy it is. Another option is to lift a corner of the item to assess its full weight. If the item is too heavy to lift safely, enlist the help of another person.
Additionally, if the item is fragile, you will want to be extra careful when lifting it and may want to look into more protective packing materials. For example, bubble wrap or styrofoam sheets are great for wrapping delicate items. By taking the time to assess the item, you can ensure it is lifted carefully and safely.
Step-By-Step Kinetic Lifting
Once you’ve assessed the object and determined it’s safe to lift, follow these kinetic lifting steps to ensure you don’t injure yourself:
- Assess the object: Before you attempt to lift anything, ensure that it is safe to lift. Check the weight and size of the object, and determine if you can handle it alone or if you need assistance.
- Position yourself: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your spine straight. Ensure that you have a stable footing to prevent slipping or falling.
- Bend your knees and push your hips back: Squat down by bending your knees and pushing your hips back. Keep your back straight and avoid bending over to lift the object.
- Maintain a firm grip: Grasp the object firmly with both hands, keeping your wrists straight.
- Lift with your legs: Use your leg muscles to lift the object, pushing up with your legs instead of pulling up with your back. Keep your back straight and avoid twisting or jerking your body.
- Keep the object close to your body: Once you have lifted the object, keep it close to your body to maintain balance and reduce strain on your back.
- Lift slowly and steadily: Lift the object slowly and steadily, using controlled movements.
- Place the object in the desired location: Carry the object to the desired location while maintaining a straight back and a firm grip.
- Lower the object slowly and steadily: To lower the object, squat down by bending your knees and pushing your hips back. Keep your back straight and avoid twisting or jerking your body.
- Straighten your legs and stand up: Once you have placed the object down, straighten your legs and stand up slowly and steadily. Take a break if you need to before attempting to move another heavy object.
By following these steps, you can use kinetic lifting to move heavy items safely and effectively, reducing the risk of injury. Remember to always assess the object before lifting, and seek assistance if necessary.
Making the Most of Kinetic Lifting During Your Home or Office Move
When it comes to moving, the kinetic lifting technique can be extremely helpful when trying to manoeuvre heavy items. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your move is carried out safely and efficiently. Remember to assess the object before attempting to lift it, and to keep it close to your body while manoeuvring. If you have any doubts, recruit a friend or family member to help you move heavy items. When it comes to moving, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
At Thomas Pardy Removals, our moving services in Bournemouth are extensive, so if you’re looking for help with your home or office move, contact us today. Our team of experienced movers will be more than happy to help you out.