It Has Arrived

Winter has officially arrived. Minnesota winters can bring snow and brutal cold and usually both. Today we spent the day digging out from our biggest snow dumping in two years. Last year we were spoiled with mild temperatures and very little snow. In the northern suburbs where I live we were fortunate to be hit with close to 15 inches. Because of this I spent part of the morning shoveling and then this evening shoveling again. I am one of those Minnesotans who does not own a snow blower. I have to clear the snow the old fashioned way, exercise and sweat.

This is all part of a weekend of leisureship. I know what you are saying; shoveling snow doesn’t sound much like leisure. It really isn’t but if you look at it as exercise it is leisure. Many of you might spend money on a gym membership or home equipment when all you have to do is buy a shovel and live in Minnesota.

It is good exercise, shoveling snow, but you have to be careful when shoveling snow to make sure you don’t hurt yourself. Just like any physical activity care should be taken to make sure they exercise does good to your body and not harm.

If you are planning to shovel here are some things to do to prepare yourself before shoveling.

·         Dress in warm layers

·         Avoid caffeine before shoveling

·         Stretch your muscles

·         Begin Slowly

·         Pace yourself and listen to your body

Follow these items and you could have yourself a decent cardio workout. Be sure you also don’t lift too much heavy snow at one time and take short breaks if you need to do so.