Safety Question: How can I safely lift 45 lb plates? (safest form)

I was taught to rest one arm on something stable and use the other arm to slide and lift the plate. At the time it worked fine, but I've been out of the gym for a while and lost some upper body strength so rather than a controlled lift I'd swing it up to catch it with the other hand. (I stopped after a couple of times because it felt like I may pull a muscle that way) Since stopping I've just been squatting and picking it up close to my body with both hands now. I know it may look a little silly but I feel like it's a safe option.

Does anyone have any suggestion on how to pick up a 45lb plate safely for someone with relatively low upper body strength?

by Jeshi123 via Bodybuilding.com Forums - Female Bodybuilding