Expert: Walter Hintz - 9/28/2007

Question
A person carrying a heavy bag normally finds the impact of the weight differently if he carries it in different ways. For example if he carries it by the handle or by a strap on the shoulder or putting the whole bag on top of his shoulder. Why is this so (as the weight of the bag is the same in all the cases)?

Answer
Hi Izwan
The perception of the weight depends upon different factors such as the distribution of the weight and which muscles are used.  Suppose you pick 10 pounds of something with a strap by one finger first then by two or three fingers, your whole hand, then two hands.  It feels lighter each time.