Cardiologists say shoveling large amounts of snow for just a few minutes can significantly boost your heart rate and blood pressure – with increases equivalent to those achieved while running to exhaustion on a treadmill. This may help explain the rise in heart attacks seen annually during the winter. Individuals at risk of heart disease, particularly smokers and those with high ”bad” cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, must be very cautious.

“Even people who are completely healthy and in excellent physical condition are injured while shoveling snow,” according to Mandy Fulkerson, admissions and marketing director of Heartland of Oregon. “Back and muscle strain are major concerns. Shoveling snow, especially wet snow, is strenuous work and should be approached slowly and deliberately.”

Tips to help get a handle on safe shoveling:
• If you have a history on heart trouble, don’t shovel without a doctor’s permission
• Take the time to do some back stretches before you begin.
• Push the snow as you shovel. It’s easier on your back than lifting the snow out of the way.

• Don’t pick up too much snow at once—scoop up half shovelfuls or less.
• Rest frequently, every two or three minutes.
• Lift with your legs bent, not your back. Keep your back straight. By bending into the movement, you’ll keep your spine upright and less stressed, your shoulders, torso and thighs can do the work for you.

For a free brochure of additional safety tips, call Heartland of Oregon at 419-698-4521.

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