Safety and Ergonomics:  The Ergonica Weed Twister is a safe and ergonomically friendly hand tool when used as intended, especially when the correct length is selected according to the plant placement and the user's height as described below.  When compared with the standard hoe of any handle length, the Weed Twister is less stressful for muscles, bones and joints of the shoulders, back, hips and knees, as described below.  The long handles from 36 to 60 inches in length help to protect your back and limbs from the excessive stress normally associated with weeding by hand or using short-handled weeders and knives.  The coils are pointed and sharpened and potentially dangerous if used carelessly.  Children may be intrigued by the design of this tool and may volunteer to help.  If the children are old enough, be sure to guide them as they learn about gardening and how to help out with the chores of the household. Also, see the section above on Skin or Gloves.  

For the most effective use and ergonomic value, the length of the tool should be matched with the height of the user.  As a rule of thumb, the Weed Twister T-handle of the 36-48 inch models should be about the same level as the chest of the user when used for weed twisting.   For precise tilling or working away from your path, the length may be 6 to 12 inches longer to give you a comfortable reach.  Use a yard stick or tape measurer to measure the distance from your chest to the bottom of your feet.  The Dual Grip 54-inch model can be effectively applied for weeding and tilling when the T-handle is as high as the neck of the user.  This is because the Dual Grip model allows the user to use the arm and shoulder to support the twisting motion of the lower hand.  Shallow water-pond weeding requires longer reach which can best be supported by 48 - 60 inch lengths.  The 60 inch model is also recommended for wheelchair access as described below. 

In comparison, most hoes require a longer handle than the Weed Twister (and more weight) due to the angle of the blade and the need to swing or pound the hoe into the soil.  This results in added stress due to the handle weight and the need to bend your back to swing the hoe.  Even a long 60 inch hoe usually requires you to bend your back to swing the hoe blade vertically into the soil.  Compared to the hoe, the Weed Twister uses more arm and wrist muscles and less shoulder, back and leg muscles.  The Weed Twister is likewise less abusive of the bones and joints of your shoulder, back, knees and legs than is the common hoe of any length.

For Wheelchair Gardeners, a longer length is helpful to reach areas away from your path.  With raised beds, however, the 36-inch model may be the optimum length, assuming your wheelchair path is close to the raised bed.  Paraplegics with strong hands and arms may be able to handle the extra weight and manipulation of the Turbo Weed Twister.  You can also reach up to pick fruit with a 48-inch Weed Twister or the newest 60 inch Weed Twister, designed especially for wheelchair access.  The 60-inch model weighs only 2 pounds, making it easier to use for people with limited arm strength.

If the tool length is too short for you, you will still be able to work effectively, but will need to stoop more and place more strain than necessary on your back muscles and bones.  If the handle is higher than your neck, you can still work effectively by approaching your target plants from an angle.  When working with deep roots, a longer handle allows you to twist deeply into the soil without stooping.  Ergonica also offers an optional 8-inch T-Handle Kit for working with deep roots in tough soil to allow you to more comfortably twist with both hands.  If you have several willing workers in your home or farm, we suggest you buy several different models based on the height of the workers and the types of applications needed.  It's a good idea to warm up your arms and legs by stretching and walking for fifteen minutes prior to doing any kind of vigorous yard work. 

Weighing in at less than 2 pounds, even the 48-inch Weed Twister is almost a pound lighter than most other tools of the same class.  This allows you to work with pinpoint accuracy while experiencing less stress than with heavier tools.  Although the 54-inch model weighs 3 pounds, the dual handles balance the weight between both hands and give you a sense of controlled power.  Even at 3 pounds, this tool is comparable or lighter than other tools, such as the multi-prong tools or long-handled hoes.  Careful ergonomic engineering results in more punch per pound for this amazing tool.   Like a ninja weapon, you will appreciate the deft power of this tool, especially when facing a bumper crop of uninvited weeds and misplaced plants in your yard!