How to Give the Best Piggyback Rides

A step-by-step guide on carrying someone on your back

Reviewed by Monica Morris

Last Updated: April 14, 2025

You’re hanging out with a friend when they suddenly twist an ankle. With your house a block away, how can you get them there safely? A piggyback ride, of course! Carrying someone on your back may seem difficult, but you’ve got more strength than you may think. With our help, you can pick up just about anyone, whether it’s for fun or in an emergency situation.

1

Stand straight with arms on either side of your body.

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2

Open arms slightly.

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3

Bend knees slightly.

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4

Let the rider approach from behind.

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5

Drop your knees to give the rider a place to sit.

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Do not take weight off rider yet!

6

Bend knees and reach back.

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As you reach down instruct the rider to gently take their weight with arms and bend their knees towards their hands.

7

Put your arms under the rider's legs.

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Keep your back straight. Interlock your fingers.

8

Stand up.

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Slowly raise the rider by straightening your knees. Be careful as this is the point when you are most likely to overbalance.
- For a longer-lasting and more comfortable piggyback, adjust your arms to bring your elbows as close to your hips as possible, ideally this will transfer the weight from your arms into your hips.

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Question

How can I tell if the person is strong enough to give me a piggyback ride?

Community Answer

Generally if the person is taller than you or is very strong, they will be able to give you a piggyback ride. Talk to the person if you are unsure of their strength.

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Question

I am 15 and weigh 60 kg (133 lbs). Can most adults give me a piggyback ride?

Community Answer

Theoretically, yes. The average man can lift about 70 kg, and although the average woman can lift about 35 kg, those who exercise regularly could probably lift you.

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Question

At what age can I give an adult a piggyback ride?

Community Answer

You can do it at any age as long as you're strong enough.

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Tips

For advanced riders the weaker hand can be removed to allow for gentle encouragement of the pig (a slap on the backside can sometimes gain a boost of up to 2 mph).

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Helpful 12 Not Helpful 3
The further back your elbows the easier it is to keep balance and maintain the piggyback.

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For smaller riders (children) get them to sit on a table or bench to avoid lots of movement when lifting.

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Warnings

Avoid ice and other low friction surfaces, these can lead to falls and broken teeth.

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Helpful 38 Not Helpful 7
Try not to drop person without warning. They could choke you or injure themselves.

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Don't try to give a piggyback to someone heavier than you; you will most likely be injured.

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