Monday, January 5, 2009

Don't get snowed under while shovelling your driveway

(NC)—The foot of snow outside your door brings many thoughts to mind: the glistening outdoor scene, great skiing conditions, and strained back muscles from shovelling it all off your driveway!

But, shovelling doesn't have to be back-breaking work – just be smart, use the right equipment and try to have fun! The following tips will help you clear the drive pain-free and leave you time to enjoy the winter wonderland.

• Warm up before starting. Stretch your arms and shoulders or walk in place for a couple of minutes to get your blood pumping.

• Bend at the knees. You've heard it before because it works. Your legs have larger and stronger muscles than your back. Use them to lift the weight instead.

• At the first sign of pain, take an over-the-counter pan reliever such as Tylenol. Treating the pain before it worsens can help tackling the driveway become at least a little bit easier.

• Don't lift too much – clear out two inches of snow at a time. Smaller amounts of snow will be easier to lift.

• Choose the right size shovel for your height – not too long or short.

• Keep your hands spaced apart. The distance between your hands will help create greater balance.

• Shovel early and often. Light snow that has just fallen is easier to shovel than heavily packed snow.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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