I have a small driveway and prefer not to use a snowblower to remove snow. Any tips on how best to proceed?
— Beth Roberts, Lincolnshire
Shoveling snow is hard work and an easy way to get injured, even if you are in good shape. Rigorous outside physical labor like shoveling snow puts stresses on your body that are different from your routine exercise. Start by choosing a shovel that is comfortable for you. Avoid using a snow shovel that is too large for you, as that will require excessive effort to push or throw snow to the side. A large, wide shovel will work well for light, fluffy snow or dustings. Use a smaller shovel for heavy, wet snow and to remove the heavy snow piled up at the end of the driveway by snowplows. At home, I alternate between a couple of shovels, depending on the type and depth of snow to remove. A poly snow pusher will work well to quickly clear large areas of light snow, while an aluminum scoop shovel is a good choice for deep snow. Use a heavy, flat metal spade if you need to chip ice.
As with many gardening tasks, it is best to avoid lifting with your back. Bend at the knees and lift the snow while focusing on using your legs to do the work. Push the snow whenever you can and be careful not to take too large a shovelful of snow. It is also important to set a comfortable shoveling pace for your abilities and take breaks as needed. It is easy to overexert yourself, which can lead to an injury. Start slowly in order to allow your muscles to warm up properly, as you would when working out in the gym.
Tim Johnson is senior director of horticulture for the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe.
