Complete Lawn Care Safely
By Brandi Goodman
Leaves fall each autumn, leaving a yard filled with debris that needs to be cleaned. When you're completing fall lawn care, you need to be sure to do so safely. What may start out seeming like an easy task can quickly leave you sore and exhausted.
Avoid Twisting
Too many people turn and twist as they attempt to rake different areas of the yard. This can quickly allow back pain to set in. You should avoid twisting, instead focusing on your arm movements and moving to the next spot before continuing the motions.
Break Up Your Tasks
If you have several jobs to accomplish -- or even one large job -- it's best to break them up. Break up your tasks and complete only one portion at a time so you don't overdo it. Trying to get everything done at once is what normally affects people's bodies the most. You don't want to push yourself too hard and overexert yourself as you try to rake the entire yard in one go, for example. Commit to just one section and take a break, finishing another later. You can even split the task over the course of a few days if you're able.
Stretch Before Starting
You always want to stretch out your body before attempting any form of physical activity. Even if you feel that quickly raking your small yard won't cause any harm, you still want to be flexible and able to accomplish the job. An already stiff body can make it difficult to maneuver and complete your task as easily if you had your full abilities.
Choose the Right Tools
Not just any rake will do. You need to find the right tools for your body. This may mean purchasing an extendable rake that is long enough for your arms, or getting a short rake if you have shorter arms. You may also want to find a backpack leaf blower so the weight of it is easier to carry. Some can be heavy to carry around and use, quickly hurting your shoulders or back.
Fall lawn care -- and any yard work you complete any other time of year for that matter -- should be completed carefully. It can be too easy to hurt your back or shoulders as you attempt to get your outdoor job duties finished fast. It's best to complete the work slowly over time so you can finish with triumph rather than pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Round Rock, Tex.