# Never bend your back to pick something up.
It’s just not worth the damage that improper lifting technique can cause.

# Hold the object close to your body.
You are a much more stable lifter if you’re not reaching for an object.

# Don’t twist or bend.
Face in the direction you are walking. If you need to turn, stop, turn in small steps, and then continue walking.

# Keep your eyes up.
Looking slightly upwards will help you maintain a better position of the spine.

Those are just a few basic tips, but to really bring it home, check out this step by step diagram I found through the mayoclic.com website.