This might sound silly but shoveling can be dangerous! Especially if you’re not used to it. It’s a big work out for some people! Think of these tips when you dig out today!
Warm Up Before You Dig In
Shoveling is real physical work, so it’s important to treat it like a workout. Spend 3–5 minutes warming up with light stretching or marching in place. This helps loosen your muscles and reduces your risk of injury—especially to your back and shoulders.
Push the Snow—Don’t Lift It
Whenever possible, push snow to the side instead of lifting it.
Lift Safely When You Have To
Of course, lifting is sometimes unavoidable. When you do:
- Bend your knees, not your back
- Keep the shovel close to your body
- Use your legs to lift
- Turn your whole body—don’t twist
Take Small Scoops
Storm snow in Nova Scotia can be heavy. Wet snow adds up fast, and an overloaded shovel can strain your back.
Pace Yourself
Don’t try to be a winter hero.
Choose the Right Shovel
A lightweight shovel with a curved handle can help maintain good posture. For large flat areas like driveways, a snow pusher is a game changer.
Clear in Layers During Big Storms
If the snow is coming down hard, don’t wait for it all to pile up. Doing a few smaller clears throughout the storm is much easier than tackling it all at once!
Listen to Your Body
Pain, strain, or shortness of breath is your cue to stop immediately. Shoveling should be steady work—not something that hurts you.
