Snow Shoveling Stretches
5 CommentsSnow is beautiful when falling to the ground, but it is hard work to clear it out of the way. To keep from getting too sore, try these three exercises after shoveling all of that snow.
1. Doorway Stretch
This is a great way to stretch the shoulders after being hunched forward while shoveling. First, stand just outside of the doorway. Place your hands on either side of the doorframe and lean in gently. You should feel a stretch in the shoulders and chest.
2. Lower Trunk Rotation
This stretch is meant to get stiffness out of the lower back. Lie flat on your bed or the floor, feet together on the ground, and with both knees bent. Gently rotate your knees to one side until you feel a stretch in your low back.
3. Hamstring Stretch
Have a seat in a standard height chair with one leg straight in front of you. The heel of the straight leg should be on the floor. While keeping your back straight, lean forward to stretch the hamstring. If you feel more stretch in the back, you will want to readjust so that you are bending through the hips and not your lower back
All of these stretches should be held for twenty seconds and performed five times. These are not meant to be aggressive or painful so stop when you start to feel a good stretch.
Soreness After Shoveling
Although it is expected to feel some soreness after shoveling, it is important to pay attention to any unusual aches and pains. If soreness does not subside, make sure to schedule a free assessment with one of our therapists at your nearest Athletico location.
The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.
5 Comments
Barb
Great advice/suggestions! Thank you
Debby
Great advice, thank you. Now all we need is snow!
Beverly
these exercises are great for more than snow. Thanks for the reminder
Sharon Tilton
Thanks for the suggestions!
I promise to follow them.
Thomas Burke
Great articles, keep them coming.. The information is very informative..