The moment I realized my backpack weight distribution was killing my back

Used to just throw my laptop and stuff in my bag however they fit. Never thought about placement. But last month I did a 3 mile walk to a client site in Austin. By the time I got there my right shoulder was killing me. A guy at the front desk pointed out my bag was pulling me to one side. He showed me his setup heavy items flat against his spine, light stuff at the top. Tried it next day and it was night and day difference. My back didn't ache at all after the same walk. Now I have to ask did I just miss something obvious or did anyone else carry their load wrong for years before getting called out on it?

2 comments

2 Comments

rosew3726d ago

Three miles doesn't sound like it warrants that much back pain unless you already have issues. I've carried a heavy duffel bag crossbody on the NYC subway for years and never had more than a tired shoulder at the end of the day. People get too dramatic about bag weight distribution when the real fix is just carrying less stuff.

lee.lucas26d ago

Yeah but NYC subway riding is different man. You're standing and shifting constantly, your body is in motion the whole time so it's not the same static load. Three miles of walking on pavement with a backpack that's even 15-20 pounds, that adds up over time especially if you're not used to it. I've seen dudes at work carrying equipment bags who think they're fine for years until one day their back just gives out. The real issue is most people don't even know what their load limit is until they cross it. And carrying less stuff sounds good but for some of us that's not an option when you need your laptop and lunch and whatever else for the day.