11/24/2023
Safe Leaf Raking!
Fall has arrived in Sarnia which means lots of leaves to rake and pumpkin spiced everything!! Raking leaves is a wonderful way of getting some cardiovascular exercise! Plus it’s a great way of enjoying the great outdoors! Dave and I will often fill fifty bags of leaves on our property each fall so we wanted to outline some tips and techniques to get your yard tidied up while also staying injury free.
* Select The Right Rake For The Job. The wrong size will strain your neck, back and shoulders. Keep your rake close to your body and keep your feet moving so you can avoid reaching for the leaves and bending at the waist.
* Switch your hand position on the rake continually to minimize wrist strainand blisters.
* Remember to bend your knees and lift with your legs when you’re filling your leaf bags. Try to keep your back straight to avoid any twisting movements.
* Make sure your weight is evenly distributed and avoid locking out your knees. Keep your legs moving as much as possible to avoid back strain.
* Take regular breaks and hydrate! Set a timer if necessary.
* Don’t overfill the bags! This will avoid back strain as well as tearing the bags. Leaves might seem light but bags can become heavy and awkward quickly, especially if it’s been raining.Try to rake with the wind not against it. Save yourself the hassle of raking twice! Make small leaf piles that you can fill immediately. As much fun as it is to make a big leaf pile to jump in, it’s much harder on your back to fill that mound.
*** Most important tip! Listen to your body!! If your back or body starts to feel the stress and strain then take a break! ***
TOP TIPS FOR SAFE LEAF RAKING THIS FALL
1. Make sure it’s safe for you to rake leaves. Check
with your doctor if necessary. Dress appropriately
for the weather. Layer your clothing because raking
will make you sweat! Wear gardening gloves to
maintain grip strength.
2. Warm up and stretch your muscles. Include your
neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs. Walk around
your yard to warm your body and pick up any sticks
that could tear your leaf bags.
3. Use an appropriate size rake for your body. If it’s too
short it can put unnecessary strain on your neck and
shoulders. You should be able to move your arms
comfortably while maintaining an upright posture.
4. Keep your feet shoulder width apart to distribute your
weight evenly between your feet. It will help maintain
your balance
5. Remember good lifting habits! Keep your feet shoulder
width apart, bend your knees and lift with your legs to
minimize stress on your body. Avoid any movements
that repeatedly twist your torso.
