Static lifting strength in different lifting postures among Malaysian adults

Abstract

This laboratory-based study aims to evaluate maximum static lifting strengths for one-handed (left hand or right hand) and two-handed exertions in four lifting types (back lifting, upper-body lifting, arm lifting, and shoulder lifting) across three horizontal distances (toes were anterior to, aligned with, and posterior to the exerted handle). This study recruited 48 men and 48 women, right-handed undergraduates aged 18 to 25 years. The results showed that the static lifting strength ratio of one-handed lifting to two-handed lifting ranged from 61% to 71%. No significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed between right-handed (dominant) and left-handed lifting strengths. This study showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) in men's and women's lifting strengths in all lifting conditions. This study also showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in respondents with normal body mass index (BMI; <25) and abnormal BMI (BMI ≥ 25) in all lifting types. The lifting strengths in four lifting types across three horizontal distances were significantly different. The results showed that upper-body lifting with near horizontal distance (toes anterior to the exerted handle) has the highest reading of lifting strength. The results encouraged two-handed lifting due to higher lifting strength and less strain. The results also indicated the need to account for differences between the genders and BMI categories when disseminating lifting tasks. This study recommends that practitioners not overlook the effects of the lifting types and horizontal distances when evaluating one's lifting strength for screening purposes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.