Abstract: A manually operable shovel in which the handle portion includes handle side parts spaced laterally apart to define a space between them in which the user's body may be located, the space being open at its end remote from the blade to allow the user to move into the space. Each side part includes a member adapted to underlie the user's arm from the user's hand to approximately the user's elbow. This permits the user to stand between the side parts with arms overlying the side parts and to apply a lifting force to lift the load in front of the user. The handle side parts then rotate with the arms of the user to provide a lever action and the user can apply a lifting force to the load in proximity to his/her body without bending his/her back. This manner of lifting reduces back strain.