SNOW SHOVEL SURVIVAL
It looks like we are in for some snow. Usually brings along strains of the body in various locations. General body ache post shoveling. Specific back, neck and shoulder pain and injury that may take weeks to recover.
Biomechanically, we are at a disadvantage when it comes to shoveling. The crooked shovels do not really help any more than using a regular shovel. Bottom line is that at a typical shovel’s length one full shovel may weigh anywhere from 5 pounds to 30 pounds! That would require up to 250 pounds of self- generated force to lift and throw.
Standing more upright will allow you to use your legs, much more advantageous. Standing closer and having your hand closer to the blade, affectively reducing the length of the shovel can cut that 250 pounds in half. A very good technique is to push the snow as if you were a plow. Never needing to lift and throw. That is the best technique to avoid major pains. There are several “plows” available, I must admit I use mine!
(See “Manplow” online, great tool.)
Take breaks, do not rush, drink water, use these tips. GOOD LUCK.