Believe it or not, raking and shoveling snow can be classified as a vigorous physical activity, even if you exercise regularly. Pushing, pulling and lifting leaves and snow can significantly increase your heart rate which is why heart attacks are one of the potential risks of shoveling snow. Shoveling also places a great deal of stress on the body’s muscles and joints as muscle strains in the low back and hamstrings are common. Colder weather does not help the cause out either. Our bodies are like cars - they run better and more efficiently in warmer weather and poorer (less efficient) in cold weather. Taking these issues into consideration before picking up a rake or snow shovel may help reduce your risk of injury as the colder weather season approaches.

First and foremost, raking leaves and shoveling snow is not a race. It needs to be done at a pace that allows your body to keep up with the demands that are placed on it. Fatigue leads to poor body postures which places you at higher risk of injury or accident. If you have a large area to rake or shovel, break it up into smaller pieces and take breaks often. During those breaks, replenish your body’s lost fluids. Even though you may not feel you are thirsty or hot, you are burning excessive amounts of energy. When it is colder, the air is generally dry, so your body loses fluids whether you realize it or not. Wearing multiple layers of clothing can also be an advantage when working outdoors. Just because it is cold outside, does not mean that you cannot sweat. Sweating in cold weather conditions can lead to hypothermia (a decrease in your body’s temperature). So shed layers according to your body temperature and comfort level.

There are many designs of rakes and snow shovels on the market today. Ensuring that you have the right tool for the job is important. Shovel blades are typically made from materials like metals (aluminum) or plastics. Metal shovels are better for their durability in icy conditions where plastic shovels are great for scooping. The size of the blade matters as well. Smaller blades will require less effort to move snow when compared to larger blades, but will also move less snow per scoop. Buy one that you know that you are capable of using without excessively straining your body. You do not have to buy the biggest shovel on the rack - you may be just as efficient with a smaller one.

While there are not as many rake options on the market as snow shovels, there are options that may make the decision more complicated. Rake handles are generally straight and made from a hardwood, such as ash. There are other options like aluminum or fiberglass as well. Most importantly, ensure that the handle is comfortable by choosing one with a foam covering. This not only makes the job more comfortable, but makes the handle easier to grip and can reduce the chances of getting a blister. It may also be a good idea to wear gloves when raking as well to help grip the handle and protect your hands. Rake heads come in different shapes, sizes, and allow for user adjustments. Certain rake head angles can be adjusted to promote more upright back postures. Other rakes have a clog free design that can save you time and energy by keeping your rake free if leaves that normally get stuck between the tines.