(no subject)

[novapsyche]

Wow. Once I found out the easy way to shoveling snow, it wasn't so bad!

It seemed silly to just shovel right outside the house. So I did the whole sidewalk.

But seriously. Work smarter, not harder really makes sense.

Comments

[custardfairy.livejournal.com]

What is the secret?

[novapsyche.livejournal.com]

Heh. I'm kind of reluctant to say, because part of me is like, "How do I capitalize on this idea?"

But what you want to do is use the shovel and your body to make a lever.

So, first you push the snow in front of you with the shovel, like you would a lawnmower. Then, when the snow has grouped, bring your body in close and hunch; your stance will be like that of a pikeman. But instead of hauling the snow over your shoulder (which would be insane), you take one hand and put it as close to the base of the shovel as is comfortable; then, with your opposite arm tucked close to your torso but over the handle of the shovel, take the snow and swivel it over to the side. You don't need to lift the shovel very high, but you're using your forearm against your thigh to create a fulcrum.

Take two steps back and repeat as necessary. I guarantee you will look odd, but your heart will thank you for it. I seldom needed to take breaks, and when I finished, my blood pressure was almost like normal and I wasn't panting or anything.