Winter is Almost Here……..Are you Ready to Shovel Snow?
As the temperatures drop a little more each day, we know that winter is right around the corner. By now we have all heard predictions that this winter will be a hard one, with lots of snow. Typically, the first snow fall will occur and most of us dust off our snow shovels and start to clear the driveway without another thought.
The good news is that snow shoveling can be a great workout and will burn off those unwanted extra calories. The bad news is that every year people experience both fatal and non-fatal heart attacks as a result of snow shoveling. In addition, many people will injure either their backs or shoulders.
Some people are at a higher risk and should avoid shoveling (i.e. elderly, anyone with heart disease or other related health concerns and people with existing back problems). If proper precautions are taken though, snow shoveling can get you off the couch for a little exercise while clearing your driveway at the same time. Here are some tips to keep you safe while shoveling:
- Get a lightweight shovel that is in good working condition
- Before you start to shovel, do some light warm-up exercises to get your body ready
- Clear the snow early and often; fresh snow is light and fluffy and much easier to shovel than wet compacted snow
- Don’t overfill your shovel; fill it with a moderate amount of snow that is not too heavy
- Pace yourself; try shoveling for 15 minutes and then taking a short break to rest and relax for 5 minutes
- Use your legs not just your back; bend your knees, keep the back straight and lift with using your legs
- Try pushing the snow instead of lifting it
- Use proper body mechanics when throwing the snow; don’t throw the snow to the side or above the shoulder, rather keep all of your lifting directly in front of your body
- As soon as the snow plow comes, pick up your shovel; the longer you wait the more packed the snow and ice becomes
The most important tip is to listen your body! If you feel tightness or pain in your chest, stop right away and call your doctor. Remember with a little forethought shoveling can be a great way to burn off your Christmas cookies and get out in the beautiful winter wonderland.
