The proper method for lifting is to keep the back straight, spread the feet comfortably apart, and lift with the ____________ muscles.

The proper method for lifting is to keep the back straight, spread the feet comfortably apart, and lift with the ____________ muscles.

• A. Arm
• B. Leg
• C. Back
• D. Shoulder

Answer: (B)

Lifting with the legs uses the body's strongest muscle groups to generate the lift while protecting the spine. By keeping the back straight and the feet planted apart, you create a stable, squat-like stance. You lower by bending at the knees and hips, and then push upward through the legs, keeping the load close to your center. This transfers the work to the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which are built for heavy lifting and endurance, and it keeps the spine in a neutral, safer position. Lifting with the arms or shoulders alone would place too much strain on the smaller muscles and joints of the upper body, and relying on the back to lift the load increases the risk of injury. So, the correct choice is lifting with the leg muscles.

Lifting with the legs uses the body's strongest muscle groups to generate the lift while protecting the spine. By keeping the back straight and the feet planted apart, you create a stable, squat-like stance. You lower by bending at the knees and hips, and then push upward through the legs, keeping the load close to your center. This transfers the work to the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which are built for heavy lifting and endurance, and it keeps the spine in a neutral, safer position. Lifting with the arms or shoulders alone would place too much strain on the smaller muscles and joints of the upper body, and relying on the back to lift the load increases the risk of injury. So, the correct choice is lifting with the leg muscles.