The Best Techniques to Shovel Snow

Selecting a Snow Shovel

• A snow shovel design that minimizes the amount of bending and the amount of weight you'll have to lift is one of the best choices. Aluminum and plastic designs often weigh less than metal shovels. A shovel handle with a slight curve in it makes it more ergonomic for hand placement and helps keep the shovel blade on the ground during use.

Warm-up Exercises

• If you've been watching TV from the comfort of your couch for the last three hours, you might want to stretch out those muscles before heading out into the snow. Warm up your arms and legs by walking in place for a few minutes to get the blood flowing. Stretch your leg, arm, back and shoulder muscles to limber them up for the task ahead, which will help minimize the chance of a pulled or torn muscle.

The Best Lifting Techniques

• Keep your head facing in the direction you shovel the snow. Only scoop up as much snow as you feel you can lift. Stop at this point, and square your shoulders up with the sides of the shovel blade. Set your feet apart as wide as your shoulders, and get close enough to the scoop to minimize stooping. Bend your knees while keeping your back straight. Grip the shovel handle with your hands, and tuck your chin into your chest while you lift the scoop. Avoid twisting your back while lifting. When your legs are straight, walk to where you want to deposit the snow and stop. Dump the shovel by turning it upside-down with your hands. If you have to toss the snow, step into the toss to minimize using your back muscles.

Staying on Your Feet and Avoiding Too Much Strain

• Keep your feet staggered while walking over snow-covered surfaces to avoid a falling injury. Use the shovel to help support yourself in case of extremely slippery surfaces. If the area you're shoveling is too slippery, don't risk it. Return to the house every so often for a 15-minute break. Use this time to stretch and rehydrate before going back outside. You'll be more productive, and the job won't seem so overwhelming. Remember that the way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.