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I’m in Boston. Our forecast calls for epic storm. I’ve already cleared 4” of wet, heavy snow from a large area this past weekend (I didn’t use the snowblower).
This weekend will be all hands on deck and I will likely not have the strength, nor time, nor space, to do what I usually do for exercise. So I’m trying to rationalize things and make me feel better by admitting snow removal into the halls of exercise.
I just finished shoveling my driveway for the second time today. I'm sure we don't have anywhere near the amount of snow that Boston is getting. Shoveling snow is exercise, but I don't consider it a replacement for either the cardiovascular or strength training exercise that I do. I can't compare shoveling snow to running six miles at a relatively fast pace. There is no way that it is comparable. I also can't compare shoveling show to lifting weights. The problem with shoveling snow is you're using the same muscles and the same repetitive motion, which is a risk for injury.
I bought the biggest snow shovel I could find and it is tiring and it is also easy to hurt yourself. The motion is awkward and there is also the chance of slipping. I've slipped and fell numerous times while shoveling snow including almost going down today.
Shoveling snow is exercise, but I don't consider it a replacement for either the cardiovascular or strength training exercise that I do. I can't compare shoveling snow to running six miles at a relatively fast pace. There is no way that it is comparable. I also can't compare shoveling show to lifting weights.
There is nothing about shoveling snow that equates to exercise. Just look at the body mechanics involved and you can see how bad it is for the body. You are bending over, using your back as part of a lever and hope this will give you a work out? What it will do is harm your back, Stress your heart in ways it wasn't meant to be stressed and for what, to do something they make machines do?
There is nothing about shoveling snow that equates to exercise. Just look at the body mechanics involved and you can see how bad it is for the body. You are bending over, using your back as part of a lever and hope this will give you a work out? What it will do is harm your back, Stress your heart in ways it wasn't meant to be stressed and for what, to do something they make machines do?
Very expensive machines. Many of us shovel because we don't have the choice - so better make the best of it!
We only splurge on a plow to move the mounds of wet, soppy snow at the end of the driveway and 4 or 5 feet into the street that the plow kicks up when there's more than a foot of snow. My tactic has been to focus on bending with my knees, alternate which arm I use dominantly, and take frequent breaks. I'll often go out several times in a storm to get the snow while it is dryer and less accumulation. It ends up being a decent legs workout - I don't typically feel it too much in my back and arms the next morning, but I definitely feel it in my thighs and tush!
Not exactly the best conditions for exercise needs as it can be especially dangerous to seniors. Plus the danger of increased time to medical aid because of conditions. Stay safe.
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