As everyone in the GTA and surrounding area just got hit with around 30cm of snow, I am not going to go through the 16 cardinal rules of snow removal (this is Canada – it’s not our first winter), but I will go through some things that you need to be mindful of during and after your (what seems to be never-ending) snow removal expedition.
- Take your time!
- Stretch.
- Only fill your shovel with the amount of snow that you can actually lift, not what you think you can lift – you’ll pay for it later.
- Do small amounts at a time.
- Take breaks.
- Keep Hydrated. I know that all you want to do is clear your driveway, get it over and done with, but it is very important to keep hydrated. This is a workout, and keeping hydrated is as important during a workout session in the gym, as it is while shovelling snow.
- Try to watch your posture. Bend at the knees and engage your core, eliminating sole dependence on your lower back to do all of the work.
- After care – Stretch again. Then take a nice hot bath. If you are able to use Epsom salts (no health restrictions or concerns) this might help with some of those overworked muscles. And as always, keep hydrated.
- At the end of it all, book a message! 🙂