December 08, 2008

Save Your Back! Winter Snow Shoveling Tips

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Snowfall can be beautiful, but when it's piled up in your driveway and on your sidewalks it can turn into quite a burden. The American Physical Therapy Association offers tips to prevent injury while shoveling snow, and we also take a look at some non-conventional snow removal tools.

First, we must accept that snow removal is an intensely physical activity. Prepare your body for the exercise it's about to endure: stretch your back, arms, and shoulders before bundling up.

Also, know your physical limits and don't push them to try to get the job done faster. Only load your tools with as much snow as you can handle, and take breaks.

Protect your back by lifting with your knees and avoiding twisting to dump a load of snow. Turn your entire body and point your feet in the direction you're dropping the snow. Also, keep heavy shovelfuls as close to your body as possible to avoid muscle strain. You may need to "choke up" on the handle of your shovel and hold it closer to the blade.

Choose the tools that work best for you. If you've had it with traditional plastic and metal shovels, many local and online retailers offer a variety of inventive snow removal devices from which to choose. The wovel is a wheeled snow shovel that claims to throw snow without lifting or twisting. Alternatively, people who prefer the removal fuel to come from an engine rather than their muscles may invest in a snow blower.

With the proper tools and tips, you'll be able to appreciate the beauty of each snowfall this winter... and be in good shape to enjoy the warmer weather when it finally arrives!

Posted By: Marc Krebs