What is the recommended stance for your feet when lifting an object?

The recommended stance for your feet when lifting an object is to position them about shoulder width apart. This stance provides a stable base of support, which is essential for maintaining balance and stability while lifting. By having your feet shoulder-width apart, you create a solid foundation that helps distribute the weight of the load more evenly across your body. This reduces the risk of losing your balance and minimizes strain on your lower back, which is particularly important when handling heavy or awkwardly shaped objects.

A wider stance can sometimes lead to overextension of your leg muscles or uneven weight distribution, which might compromise your ability to lift safely and effectively. On the other hand, having your feet close together does not provide enough stability and makes it more difficult to lift without tipping or losing balance. While bending at the knees is an important part of lifting techniques, it is specifically a positioning of the legs and does not address foot placement alone. Therefore, the recommended stance of having feet about shoulder width apart is essential for safe lifting practices.