Since you can't see my pack set-up, you can quibble all you want.

My big old pack has a wide waist belt and sternum strap and I do exactly as you say. I also bring a lot of stuff that many solo paddlers don't. That extra shoulder padding for ME made a big difference this year. Will get another set one for each pack.

I also have the same waistbelt/sternum strap on food pack which is heavier than many solo paddlers because I like to eat well and am willing to carry extra weight at least for now to eat the way I like.

After years in exercise classes and not at home, weak glutes are not and have NEVER been the problem.
My shoulders get sore before my legs give out with the loads I carry.

IF I double portage which I always TRY to do, I go across first with food pack and daypack slung on the front but I don't like a pack in front where I don't have a clear view of where I'm stepping with a heavy load.

My front pack is clipped to a carabiner on left shoulder strap and the front pack rests on left thigh and held in close to the body by my left arm.

Double paddle in right to act as balance stick over really rough terrain or a steep downhill.

It works for me and my way of tripping, don't know about anyone else. To each their own.