Abstract: The lifting capacity of a human subject is assessed through dynamic testing protocols utilizing a cylindrical robot that tracks the path of the lift and provides load position information to a data analysis system. The movable linkage of the cylindrical robot moves in a very low friction manner and is designed to be extremely lightweight, while having remarkable strength and rigidity to withstand bending moments and torsional effects. Thus, the apparatus permits three-dimensional lift testing of actual loads, including actual job loads, with the test subject experiencing the true feel and inertial effects of the load. Static force transducers and related means are provided to permit isometric testing.