The common advice we hear today is to lift with your leg muscles. Research now shows that this is no longer wise advice as it can eventually lead to knee problems.
(Refer to Dr. Stuart McGill, The Back Mechanic)
DO IT THIS WAY INSTEAD
To come down:
- Take legs wider
- Pull your shoulder blades down from ears so you feel your back stiffen
- Chest up
- Draw in your abdominals
- Squat, let hips drop down
To come up:
- Keep the shoulders blades down and abdominals in
- Lift the chest
- Unfold at the hips as you lift the chest and straighten your legs.
BENEFITS:
When done correctly in this way there is no pain in the knees and your spine is well supported; lifting is easier. AND you are strengthening your back muscles
- The action of stiffening the front and back provides support for the spinal column.
- When you unfold at the hips as opposed to using your legs, you are using the largest muscles in your body, the gluteal muscles.
- You save wear and tear in the knees.
ANOTHER OPTION:
Another option is use the golfer's technique of lifting one leg to pick up a light object. (See image below)
Inner Journey Yoga Therapy
Spinal Health & Functional Aging
For personal coaching on proper body mechanics and posture contact Joanne for a private yoga therapy session. Book an appointment online.
705-888-9686 Joanne@innerjourney.ca
InnerJourney.ca