This article has been adapted from insights provided by Alison Richmond of Provention, creator of First Move Training, which is delivered in Northland by AIM.
When it comes to manual handling, most training focuses on technique
How to lift … How to carry … How to avoid injury
But despite this, manual handling injuries remain one of the highest workplace risks.
What’s missing?
It’s Not Just About Technique
Knowing the “right way” to lift doesn’t always translate into safer movement.
In real work environments, people are:
- Moving quickly
- Responding to changing tasks
- Working in awkward or unpredictable positions
There’s not always time to stop and think about technique.
This is where physical intelligence comes in.
What is Physical Intelligence?
Physical intelligence is the ability to:
- Be aware of how your body is moving
- Adjust movement based on the task
- Use your body efficiently and safely without overthinking
It’s not about memorising rules – it’s about developing movement awareness and adaptability.
Why It Matters
In many workplaces, injuries don’t happen because people haven’t been trained.
They happen because:
- Movement is rushed
- Postures are awkward
- Loads are unpredictable
- Fatigue sets in
Without physical intelligence, even well-trained workers can:
- Default to inefficient movement
- Place unnecessary strain on their body
- Increase their risk of injury over time
From Technique to Movement
Traditional manual handling advice often focuses on single movements – like lifting a box.
But real work is more complex than that.
People twist, reach, carry, push, pull, and repeat tasks throughout the day.
Physical intelligence helps people:
- Move smoothly between tasks
- Stay balanced and controlled
- Reduce unnecessary tension and strain
Building Physical Intelligence
Like any skill, physical intelligence can be developed. It starts with:
- Awareness – noticing how you move
- Practice – repeating better movement patterns
- Consistency – building these into everyday tasks
Over time, this leads to:
- Greater confidence
- Less fatigue
- Reduced injury risk
How AIM Can Help Your Workplace
At AIM, our approach with First Move Manual Handling goes beyond technique. We focus on helping people move safely with physical intelligence by learning how to :
- Understand their own movement patterns
- Build practical, safe movement habits
- Apply these skills in real work situations
When people move better, they work better – and feel better too.
Final Thought
First Move Manual Handling training isn’t just about lifting correctly. It’s about moving intelligently.
The goal isn’t just to avoid injury today –
it’s to support safe, sustainable movement for the long term.
Is your team physically intelligent?
