Getting a work out in as well as getting yard work done, talk about killing two birds with one stone. Raking leaves provides a full upper body workout, working the arms, shoulders and torso. Picking up and bagging leaves is a lot like doing squats at the gym!
Fun Fact: A 135-pound person could burn about 240 calories raking leaves for an hour, according to Dr. Barbara Ainsworth, an exercise epidemiologist at San Diego State University.
Remember a few tips before raking:
–Wear layers: Although it may be cool when you first begin the activity, your body will soon warm up. Avoid overheating!
–Warm up: Do some mild stretching. Raking is considered to be moderate physical activity.
-Stand and move correctly: Do not twist your spine. Move your whole body together to keep spine aligned.
–Switch sides: Avoid overuse injury. This will help balance out the stress and strain to the lower back that happens from pulling off to the side instead of directly in front of you.
Although it may not feel like it now, fall is just around the corner so remember to get outside, enjoy the cool weather and get a nice workout in while making your yard look fresh and clean!
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