How to Safely Shovel Snow!

Is it really all in the wrist? For some, shoveling snow is a necessity, but learn how to do it safely. Maybe you shouldn't be doing it at all! Snow shoveling is responsible for about 100 deaths a year. During the snowstorm last week, 18 people died in the Chicago area alone during snow shoveling accidents.

You're off the hook and hiring a teenager to clear the driveway if:

• You have a history of heart disease.
• You have high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
• You are a smoker.
• People with a sedentary lifestyle, shoveling heavy, wet snow is not a safe workout!
• Anyone who has already had a heart attack should not shovel snow.

If you are in decent shape and decide to shovel the drive, here are some tips:

• Stretch a little and warm up.
• Shovel only dry, light snow.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Push the snow instead of lifting it if you can. If you can't, then make small scoops.
• Don't shovel to the point of exhaustion, take breaks.
• Avoid alcohol and nicotine because they cause your blood vessels to constrict and increase your heart rate.
• Drink plenty of water! It's just as important to stay hydrated during winter exercise as it is summer.

I must say, we've been lucky so far this winter, but keep these tips in your back pocket.

February is National Heart Health Month, take care of yours!

Celeste