Abstract: The present invention provides devices to assist a subject in lifting and associated methods. In one aspect for example, a lift assist device can include a harness operable to be secured about or to a torso of a user, and at least one cord having a first end operably coupled to the harness and a second end operably coupleable to a forelimb of the user. Additionally, at least one of the harness and the at least one cord are substantially elastic, and where the first and second ends of the at least one cord are positioned to assist the user in lifting an object. In one aspect, the at least one cord is substantially elastic and the harness is substantially inelastic.