A comparison of different modes of load carriage : an evaluation

The objectives of this study were: (a) to find the maximum ac- ceptable weight which can be carried for 8 hours using a psycho- physical method for front, side (one hand and two hands) and back carrying, and (b) to develop models which could predict the ac- ceptable maximum weight in carrying using isometric strength and anthropometric data. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted to find the maximum acceptable weight in front side and back carrying. Six college students participated in the experiment. It was found that subjects were willing to carry the heaviest load using two-hand side carrying (average maximum acceptable weight: 7.76 kg). Back carrying was the close second with 6.62 kg. Also, there was a significant difference (p< 0.01) in maximum acceptable weight for carrying between one-hand (4.40kg) and two-hand side carrying.