Answer. Some years ago the Occupational Health and Safety, National Code of Practice recommended a maximum lifting weight for females of 15 kilograms. Since then the specific weight recommendation has been changed to reflect individual differences, and to be non-gender specific. Nevertheless it is fair to generalize and state that most people (male and female) have difficulty carrying any more than 15 kilograms, for more than a short distance without discomfort. Of course the ease with which a table can be carried depends not only on its weight, but also on the width of the table (refer discussion concerning width in previous answer), and the way in which it is carried, e.g. with a shoulder strap, or shoulder carry bag, or by its handle.

From the above it follows that weight is an extremely important but often overlooked factor in choosing a table. If the table is not going to be moved around much then of course weight is of much less significance. However, all things being equal, every practitioner appreciates the benefits of a lighter portable table. For most people of average build and stature, a table weighing more than 15 kilograms is going to be a problem that will more than likely take away a lot of the enjoyment of using the table. There are many tables on the market that weigh from 16-20 kilograms, including some of the better-known brands. This weight is a significant percentage of many practitioners’ own body weight and is almost impossible to carry any distance without discomfort, even for a young and fit person. It is an unbearable strain for the not so fit, and the not so young. Think very carefully before purchasing one of these heavier tables unless you are absolutely sure you can manage the weight. Buying a table that is too heavy is the biggest mistake most people make. It is no good having the "best" portable table in the world if it is too heavy for you to move it.

At the other end of the weight scale there are some super-lightweight tables on the market, that weigh approximately 10 kilograms. These tables can be handled easily by almost anyone, including the less physically endowed practitioner. This type of table has generally made some tradeoffs between lightness, strength and stability, which may not suit all practitioners. However, for the practitioner who would not otherwise be physically capable of carrying a portable massage table, the choice is obvious.

If you have purchased a table that is too heavy for you to manage, there are a couple of tips that may assist you. The first is to purchase a shoulder carry bag or a large luggage shoulder strap that goes right around the perimeter of the table, so with the strap on your shoulder the table is carried under the arm. This will move the weight of the table closer to the centre of the body spreading the weight, and it will appear to feel lighter. The second tip is, if you don’t have a carry bag or shoulder strap, and have to carry the table up stairs, then by using a two-handed grip, with one hand in the face hole, and the other on the carrying handle - you can hold the table close to your chest and help spread the weight across both sides of your body. This method is recommended when going up stairs even if the table is not to too heavy for you. (You are also less likely to damage the table by contact with the stairs).

Looking after your back when carrying your portable table, use a carry bag or the two handed grip