slightly OT: preventing user stupidity

[Bob Rasmussen]

On Wed, 9 Feb 2005, Brian K. White wrote:

> > Then there was also the case of standing up against a wall (facing it),
> > taking a step back, placing a chair in front of you, lean forward so that
> > your head is touching the wall, and picking up the chair.  Then, try to
> > stand up straight without moving your feet.  (Most women can do this.
> > Most men cannot.)
>
> I don't get it.
> I just tried it and it wasn't even a close thing or requiring any special
> balance or flexability or unconventional use of breasts which I don't have. I
> was effortless. It was a dining room table sort of chair with a straight back
> and arms. Heavier ang larger than a folding chair, smaller and lighter than an
> office rolly desk chair.
>
> I'm guessing there is a more specific set of stipulations than described here
> that would make it harder?

You should be standing, facing the wall, with your legs straight and your
torso at 90 degrees, with the top of your head against the wall. The chair
should be in front of you, between you and the wall. Lift the chair. No
problem. Now, while holding the chair off the floor, stand up.

The chair should make it impossible for you to bend your knees. Then it
becomes a center of gravity issue.

Regards,
....Bob Rasmussen,   President,   Rasmussen Software, Inc.

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