You only get one body in life, so protecting it makes sense, right? Well, in our busy day-to-day lives, we often forgo the extra measures that avoiding injury requires. But if there’s one day where there’s extra importance in being careful, it’s moving day. We’ve compiled a quick guide to making sure that you’re up to speed on the fundamentals of moving day safety.
Stretch, Stretch, Stretch!
Why do so many of us associate stretching with only the gym? On moving day, your furniture is acting as your weights and your house is the gym. Let’s make sure your body is ready for the moving day workout! Stretching before you start is a key component of moving day safety.
When we say a “good stretch,” we mean doing it right! Stretching should never hurt, so if you feel pain, be sure to stop. Hold each stretch for 30 seconds, and be sure not to bounce, as this can damage your muscles. In order to keep the muscles brimming with blood and oxygen, remember to breathe throughout your stretches.
Need ideas for moving day stretches? Above is a handy infographic to get you started! Complete each one of these stretches, and your entire body will be ready for the task that awaits.
Nutrition’s Role in Moving Day Safety
You know what they say, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Surely you’ve heard that before but trust us, it will make your move easier and go a long way in allowing you to have a safe moving day. It is important to make sure you get enough protein, carbs, and fats. These are known as your “macros.” A higher-protein breakfast makes you feel fuller throughout the day, all while burning more fat.
Carbohydrates are essential to maintaining energy. But not all carbs are the same! You want to choose whole grains (sprouted, whole grain, wheat, etc). These types of carbs digest slowly and will maintain the energy you need.
Fats are the last key to maintaining a balanced breakfast. But HEALTHY fats are what we are looking for here. It’s a major fuel source for your body and is the main way you store energy.
Here are some breakfast options that meet your macro needs:
- Oatmeal and fruit – aim for berries, they have the highest antioxidant levels. Add a teaspoon of almond butter
- Eggs topped with avocado and a side of fruit
- Eggs with avocado and a slice of whole wheat toast with a nut. Try sunflower seed butter – it is delicious!
- Protein pancakes, topped with fresh fruit
- Greek yogurt with PB2 and granola. For those who are vegetarian, greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein
- Protein shake – throw in veggies! They blend in and you can hardly taste them. Try a handful of spinach in your next smoothie
- Avocado wheat toast topped with an egg
- Whole wheat toast, topped with peanut butter, slices of bananas, and chia seeds
- Scrambled eggs with a side of cottage cheese and fruit
If you need some more guidance on proper moving day nutrition, click here.
Proper Lifting Technique
A common cause of back injuries is improper lifting technique. When lifting items, even light ones, it is important to do so without placing unnecessary strain on your back. Here are a few tips to avoid a lifelong battle with back problems:
- Maintain a wide base of support – keep your feet shoulder-width apart
- Squat – bend at your knees, NOT your hips. This places the pressure on your legs, not your back
- Maintain good posture – do not hunch your back, as seen in the picture. Keep it straight!
- Keep it close – holding the item close to your body prevents undue stress on your joints and back
- Use your feet – when changing direction, do so with your feet first, not your upper body!
- Breathe – keep the blood and oxygen flowing with a consistent breathing pattern
Regardless of how good your form is, some items are just too heavy to lift. To assist with those items on moving day, consider a U-Haul utility dolly.
When All Else Fails, Go With Moving Help® Marketplace
Regardless of how prepared (or unprepared) you are for moving day, take solace in the fact that Moving Help® Marketplace is always an option. Home of over one million unedited customer reviews, Moving Help® Marketplace connects you with local, professional Moving Help® Providers.
These Moving Help® Providers are capable of helping out in all phases of a move, including packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. What’s more, they will even take care of any cleaning that needs to be done around the house!
Back problems? They’re the least of your worries now. Moving Help® Providers do all the heavy lifting for you, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Talk about moving day safety!
Are you moving soon? Remember to snap some photos and post them on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook using the hashtag #uhaulfamous or upload them here!
