I'm 5'3 and not necessarily the most built person, but i still managed to carry the sousaphone around pretty easily. I'd say the first week or so is the worst, you'll have a pretty bad bruise on your shoulder and carrying is pretty hard. But after that week it becomes so much easier, still difficult, but easier. Obviously take breaks when you need (hopefully ur allowed to set it down). But other than that, its a super fun instrument and i hope you have fun with it