Here's why:

* Leverage: A lever works by using a fulcrum to multiply force. The further away the fulcrum is from the load (the rock), the more force you need to apply to the other end of the lever to lift it.

* Mechanical Advantage: When the fulcrum is closer to the rock, you get a greater mechanical advantage. This means you can lift a heavier rock with the same amount of effort.

Think of a seesaw. When you want to lift someone on the other side, you have to be further away from the fulcrum. This is because the lever arm (the distance between the fulcrum and the force) is greater on your side, giving you the advantage.