According to The Cleveland Clinic, each year about 11,000 people end up in the E R from shoveling snow. Most are orthopedic injuries (sprains, strains and broken bones), but some are from cardiac events. You can minimize the chances of ending up in the E R, buy taking a few precautions. Even if you are in shape, keep in mind the cold air would make breathing difficult and effect blood flow. Using a smaller shovel would make each shovelful lighter (and less likely to strain muscles). Taking more breaks would also reduce cold weather injuries (frostbite and the like). Lastly, try to be sure of your footing and wear proper footwear to reduce slip and fall
injuries.
The most important aspect of being fit enough to shovel, however, is to be fit enough to enjoy life. You don’t have to be the fittest that you can be, but you should be “fit enough.” Fit enough to walk, to dance, to enjoy life and yes, to shovel. Get some type of exercise a few times a week, stretch afterward (while your muscles are warmed up) to stay flexible. And while you’re out there. Have a snowball fight with your kids or grand kids, build a snowman, or a snow fort, and find a way to laugh and socialize.
Don't spend winter in the E.R...
