Important Health Tips for Cold-Weather Snow Removal
Don't Do This...Be Better Prepared for the Snow/Ice Removal
As the snow and ice arrive, clearing your driveway and sidewalk does not seem like a big deal, but 34% more heart attacks occur when snow is on the ground than when it is not. (Heart.org) But shoveling snow in cold weather can pose risks, particularly for older adults, smokers, individuals with heart conditions, or those not used to physical activity. The cold, combined with strenuous effort, can greatly raise the chances of a heart attack or injury.
Before you start shoveling, consider: Is it safe for me to do this in these conditions?
If you are not very fit or not used to cold weather, consider hiring help or using a snowblower. Heavy snowfall has been linked to a sharp rise in heart attacks and related deaths, so don’t take unnecessary risks. Prevent falls and other injuries by being honest about your health and physical condition before shoveling.
Prepare Smart and Safety First
- Dress in layers: Wear a hat, gloves, boots, and a scarf, or face covering, to protect your skin and warm the air you breathe. The colder it is, the more important it is to bundle up.
- Warm up: Do some light stretching or a gentle indoor activity to get your muscles ready before heading outside.
- Hydrate: Drink water before and during your work. Take regular breaks and avoid caffeine, which can elevate your heart rate. Avoid alcohol too!
- Shovel in short bursts: For heavy snow, go out every few inches and work in 10–20-minute intervals, pushing rather than lifting snow. Take breaks indoors to warm up.
- Listen to your body: Stop immediately if you feel tired, dizzy, short of breath, or have chest pain.
- Know the warning signs: If you experience chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, or pain radiating to your arm or jaw, call 911 right away.
Remember: Your health is more important than a clear driveway and sidewalk. If you’re at high risk or have any concerns, it’s safer to get help or use power equipment cautiously. For tips on getting physically fit and building your strength, check out beginner workouts and advice at StewSmithFitness.com.
Related article at Military.com
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There is More to StewSmithFitness.com Than You May Know - See Spec Ops Programs Below:
Who is Stew Smith? Coach, Trainer, Author, Podcaster
I'm the former Navy SEAL that special ops candidates go to for books, ebooks and online coaching to prepare themselves to get to and through intense tactical assessment and selection programs and qualify for service in their chosen tactical profession. See More at StewSmithFitness.com
Quick Summary: Here is a list of what we do at StewSmithFitness.com
(NEW - Consulting Call) - Need personal help adjusting workouts? Worried if you are on the right track? Let Stew help.
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Books and eBooks Available (All Levels of Fitness)
The Specific Military / Special Ops Physical Fitness Workouts
Navy SEAL Workout Phase 1
Navy SEAL Workout Phase 2 - 3
Navy SEAL Workout Phase 4 Grinder PT
Navy SWCC Workout
Army PFT Workout (Prep For Rucking, OPAT, ACFT)
Army Special Forces / Ranger Workout
Army Air Assault School Workout
Army Airborne Workout
Advanced Running Program - Special Ops Supplement Plan
USMC RECON / MarSOC Workout
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The Combat Conditioning Workout
Air Force PJ / CCT Workout Battlefield Airman Prep Course
The UBRR Upper Body Round Robin Workout / Spec Ops version
The Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer / Navy SAR Workout
The Service Academy Workout (West Point, Navy, Air Force Academy)
The Navy, Air Force, Marine Corp Boot Camp Workout
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The Law Enforcement Physical Fitness Workouts
The FBI Academy Workout | FBI Workout Vol 2
The DEA Workout
The FLETC Workout - Ace the PEB
The PFT Bible: Pushups, Sit-ups, 1.5 Mile Run
The Fire Fighter Workout - Ace the CPAT
Calisthenics and Cardio
Online Coaching Options
Online PT CLUB - Premium Coaching -
Do you need a program that works for you? We can customize it to your personal goals and help you fit it into your day with the equipment you have available. Let us be your training partner and coach.
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If you want access to years worth of workouts, favorite workouts of the week, free fitness APP, closed Facebook Group, video / picture library of exercises, and more access to LIVE Q/A sessions check out the Stew Smith Fitness Members Section.
The dashboard below has the links to all the information, archives, videos, and links to workouts, podcasts, live Q and A lessons.
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