It's a white one today, Detroit, but rather than dreading the drive, try to look forward to the season's best workout, well a contender for the title at the very least, shoveling the snow.
If you've done it before, and chances are if you live in Michigan, you have, then you know it can stir-up the internal thermometer and put winter muscles to the test. Shoveling snow is a full-blow cardio and muscular workout, so before you get out there be sure to warm u with a good stretch.
A few tips to help find enjoyment in this wintery workout: 1. Decide where the snow is going. 2. Brush off the cars and move them out of the driveway before you begin. 3. Dress in warm layers. And, if it helps, make a playlist on your MP3.
Remember to never twist and throw the snow — this could cause back injury. keep a good posture with a straight back and utilize the muscles in your shoulders and legs.
If you shovel for an hour at a moderate you'll probably burn between 400 and 1000 calories, depending on your BMI. But if you want, you can step it up and take care of it at a cardio pace and burn even more. Remembering to keep a good posture is even more important at accelerated shoveling speeds. The extra calories burned aren't worth a week on the couch with a thrown back.
The opportunity is a great one, especially if it's a chore you already tend to anyway. Maybe you'll discover you like it, and if you do chances are you have a few elderly neighbors who would be all-too grateful to help you get your work-out on.
You might just find out
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