The Right Way to Shovel

I've been hearing everyone talking about some major snowfall we're about to get and Weather.com is confirming it. I just wanted to do some reasearch and post this so everyone knows.
If you can't find a neighborhood kid to shovel for you, here's some tips. Don't break your back shoveling snow! It's not worth it!


Here's the rundown of how you should be shoveling your snow:

Do some stretching before you head outside, just to limber up like you would before any other workout.

When buying a shovel, invest in one that has a smaller blade -- the less snow you pick up, the less strain on your body. You may also want to try a lightweight, ergonomic shovel -- preferably one with a bent handle.

The True Temper shovel has a narrow 18-inch blade and an ergonomically bent handle that helps scoop up snow. Available @ Lowes

Also a shovel with a plastic blade will be lighter than a steel blade, but the choice is yours.

If you can, avoid lifting the snow while shoveling. Instead, push the snow to the side.If you must lift the snow, stand with your feet hip distance apart and keep the shovel close to your body.

Always bend from the knees, not the back or torso.

Tighten your abdominal muscles as you lift the snow to help provide extra back support.

Pause every 10 minutes or so to catch your breath and make sure you're not overexerting yourself.

Avoid drinking coffee before going outside in the snow, as it can place more stress on your heart by increasing your heart rate and causing blood vessels to narrow.

Dress in layers and remove layers as you work up a sweat to avoid overhearing.

Drink plenty of water before, during and after you shovel your driveway.
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Here's a few other cool snow shovels which include wheels, but no motor, so they reduce pollution and physical strain! You know I'm only posting these versus snow blowers because I work for a "Green" company. I don't diss for using a snow blower however ;)

The Wovel is touted as the world's safest snow shovel; it even won an award from Time magazine.

Speed Shovel on wheels lets you walk upright, pushing snow away like a plow. The shovel has an adjustable handle that locks in 5 different positions. There is a soft foam grip for comfort and warmth.

Dakota SnoBlade Snow Blade Removal Shovel w/ Wheels, Made For The Dakota's So It Can Handle Everything it claims.

Then there's this lightweight ergonomic shovel found on QVC for just $65.