When Are You Too Old to Shovel Snow? Experts Weigh In

Snowy winter days can be so picturesque, but let’s be real—the task of shoveling snow can quickly turn into a risky workout, especially as we get older. What seems like a simple chore can actually put a lot of strain on your heart, muscles, and joints.

So, how do you know when it’s time to stop shoveling yourself, and what should you be aware of as you age?

Why Shoveling Snow Can Be Risky

Shoveling snow isn’t just about moving a bunch of snow around—it’s a full-body workout that involves a lot of bending, lifting, and twisting. While this is tough on anyone’s body, it’s even riskier for older adults. The American Heart Association (AHA) warns that every winter, snow shoveling is linked to a rise in heart-related emergencies. If you’re not used to intense physical activity or have underlying health issues, the risks are even greater.

For those over 55, snow shoveling can be especially tough on your heart. The cold weather causes your blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for your heart to pump blood, and combining that with physical effort can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. The AHA recommends that older adults with heart conditions or high blood pressure should really be cautious when shoveling snow.

In fact, a study from The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that people 45 and older are at a much higher risk of having a heart attack while shoveling snow. Just 20 minutes of shoveling can significantly raise the chances of a heart attack, especially if you have high cholesterol or other risk factors.

Tips for Shoveling Snow Safely

If you’re determined to tackle that snow, there are a few things you can do to make it safer on your body. First off, take a few minutes to warm up before you start. Get your blood flowing with some light cardio—like walking around or marching in place—and stretch out your back, legs, and arms. It’ll help reduce your chances of injury. And remember: always lift with your legs, not your back.

As for the actual snow removal, having the right tools and using good technique can make all the difference. Pick a lightweight shovel with an ergonomic handle to minimize strain on your body. If possible, go for a smaller shovel so you’re not lifting too much snow at once.

And instead of lifting heavy snow, try pushing it—this puts less pressure on your body. When you do need to lift, take it slow and scoop up smaller amounts at a time to avoid overexerting yourself.

The post When Are You Too Old to Shovel Snow? Experts Weigh In appeared first on Family Handyman.

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