Imagine this: your back has been killing you and the action of bending over is painful and difficult. For some of you reading this, there isn’t any imagination needed as it’s just normal life. But what happens when you can’t avoid picking things up? There is a fun solution, and it may be easier than you think.
The secret to reducing the daily repetitions of bending over is simply by using the feet to try and kick up an item instead of picking it up. This isn’t a solution for every item as some things may be too heavy, too slippery, or too valuable to try to kick. But for everyday items that are small and lightweight such as clothing, towels, blankets, etc., kicking them up may be the best new thing!
The three benefits to practising a “kick-lift”:
- It saves your back from bending and lifting when it’s hurt
- You can kick something up quickly and grab it in the air or practise a slower scoop-and-lift technique if you’re feeling well balanced on one leg
- It can help with improving your balance
- Since it is a one-legged motion, you can practise working your core and balance in unstable positions
- It can be a game!
- I kick up every piece of clothing that ends up on the floor. It can be even more fun if you can kick up and flick a sock or shirt directly into the laundry hamper!
Remember that all one legged motions can cause people to feel off balance. This kick up technique isn’t meant to cause anyone to “kick up daisies” as the expression goes. If you are practising the kick up game, try it out with something to hold on to. That could be a nearby wall or piece of furniture within reach to keep yourself stable.
Happy kicking up,
Dr. Cole Maranger