Multiple studies based on electromyography (muscle activity), musculoskeletal modeling, force-instrumented devices, human biomechanics, and ergonomics experiments have shown that exosuits like the Apex reduce spine compression force during bending and lifting. For instance, a Vanderbilt University study (Lamers 2018) estimated a 5-10% reduction in spine compression force when wearing an exosuit. A Queen’s University study (Abdoli-Eramaki 2007) provided similar, corroborating evidence and includes an extended discussion of the biomechanical principles. Several newer studies have provided further evidence confirming spinal disc offloading (e.g., Lamers 2021, Yun 2021). The simplest explanation of how it works: the leverage provided by the exosuit acts like an artificial set of back muscles. But if you want the more detailed biomechanical explanation of how the exosuit’s moment arm about the spine provides a larger mechanical advantage and why this reduces both muscle and spine forces–along with a visual analogy to give you a better intuition–then check out the “How does the HeroWear Apex work?” video on the HeroWear YouTube channel.