In Lose that weight we delved into the need for limiting
your bag contents so as to spare your back and shoulders from any
injuries associated with lugging around heavy loads. But, its not only the
content of the bag that determines the impact it has on your back as bag ergonomics (shape, size etc) impact heavily as well. Finding the right bag that works for you need not be
expensive nor tedious. Below are a few tips for finding the perfect bag
that won't break your back—or the bank.
1. Choose a bag made out of lighter fabric:
Nylon, canvas and straw are much lighter than
leather is and strong. The market has a wide selection of funky
bags made in these fabrics. If you must do leather, look out for a softer
leather as tough leather tends to make your arms stick out rather than lie flat
against your body. However, its important to remember that the weight of your
bag consists not only of the material used but also the content. Maintain your
total bag weight to a maximum of 10% of your body weight.
2. Handle your business:
Remember that physics lesson in high
school about lowering the center of gravity? Don’t?
Well basically the rule was that an item would be more stable if it has a wider
base and exert less pressure
(Force/Area). Yadi yadi ya fast forward many years post high school and the
truth still stands.
Avoid bags with handles that are too thin, as not only do
they dig into your shoulders (ouch) but they also do not remain steady on your
shoulder.
In addition, avoid long strapped shoulder
bags as they tend to keep bumping your hip with the strap constantly
threatening to slip off your shoulder causing you to hunch your shoulders so as
to keep it in place. Look for bags with short handles which are neither too flimsy nor narrow.
3. Small IS good:
I have heard ladies comment “But I
can barely fit anything in it” when referring to their small bags. Now ladies, we all
know, the bigger the bag that we have the greater the temptation there is to
fill it up with all kinds of knick knacks contributing to its extra weight.
You
should also be keen to look out for how the bag meshes with your body. The
acceptable rule is that:
- Shoulder bags should automatically rest between your side and arm. This is advisable as it lowers your center of gravity. Busty women should as much as possible avoid carrying anything on their shoulders as it can contribute to further misalignment.
- If its an over your forearm bag it should be right at your waist.
4. Beyond Reach:
Each time you have to dig deep into your bag to find your mirror or lip gloss you are effectively distorting and
twisting your torso. So when buying a bag look for one which will enable you to
find the contents easily but still provide enough security for your stuff.
Look out for bags with long zippers or magnetic closures as well as outside
pockets for your frequently needed items. Alternatively, invest in a bag organiser and achieve the same effect.
5. Back to BaSEcs:
A good bag has a firm base, a definite shape and inner
pockets to keep your belongings stable. Items that tend to shift around in your
bag tend to throw your balance of. Remember, the objective is to lower your center of gravity as much as possible.
6. Gauge the bag purpose:
If you are transporting something heavy, settle for a
back pack with thick straps (preferably padded) so as to distribute the weight
evenly. If you must carry a shoulder laptop bag, ensure to carry another bag on
your other shoulder so as to balance the weight (but maintain the 10% rule). Make sure that you keep the back pack low and your chest open.
Wearing a waist bag when doing outdoor events is also a good option as the
lower lumbar vertebrae tends to bear more weight that the neck and upper back.
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