Breathe in through your nose to warm the air and then exhale as you lift the snow. This helps set a rhythm for breathing that helps avoid overexerting your heart and lungs. It keeps you from holding your breath which can increase pressure in the chest.

Lift from the legs. Using your body’s biggest muscles will help lift the snow without putting so much strain on your back.

Wait to shovel until 45 minutes after you’ve had a big meal. Allowing your body to digest your meal will help to keep from redirecting much needed blood flow from the heart and muscles needed to shovel snow.

Take regular breaks to give your body time to rest. Allow your heartrate to return to normal. Have a glass of water to stay hydrated. And go inside to warm up, if your extremities feel cold.

If you have a serious chronic condition or are not in shape to tackle a heavy snow, don’t. There are plenty of young, healthy people who would enjoy making a some money shoveling snow.

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