Whether you’re picking up bulky packages or moving furniture, it’s important to know the proper way to lift something heavy. Improper lifting can lead to injuries, which may end up causing chronic pain. Follow these tips for moving heavy objects safely.

How to Lift Heavy Items Properly

1. Use Good Form

To prevent straining your back when you lift, place your feet shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly in front of the other, and bend at the hips and knees until you are in a squatting position. Keeping your spine straight, shoulders back, and chest out, lift slowly by straightening your knees and hips. As you move the object, keep it as close to your body as possible, and never lift it above shoulder height.

2. Strengthen Your Core 

If you find yourself moving furniture or other bulky objects on a regular basis, work on developing your core muscles to help you perform these tasks safely. Abdominal exercises, such as crunches, can build strength in your midsection, so you’ll be able to engage your abs to do some of the lifting work. To develop your lower back muscles and obliques, try low-impact exercises, such as planks and side planks.

3. Know Your Limits

If you’ve had an injury in the past or already suffer from chronic back pain, stick to lifting smaller, lighter items and hire a moving company to take care of everything else. Professional movers are experts in moving furniture, appliances, and heavy boxes, and they have hand trucks and other equipment to make the job easier. By hiring a moving service to handle the bulky items while you carry lighter boxes, your move will go faster, and you won’t put yourself at risk for injury.

Big John Movers is a trusted company that has been serving Cincinnati, OH, for 50 years. Whether you need residential movers to help you relocate to a new home, or you’re looking for an office moving company with experience in moving furniture for businesses, their team has the skills and equipment to make your move go smoothly. Call (513) 244-5646 for a free quote, or visit their website to learn more about their services.