Reminder: Snow shoveling poses serious health risk

DETROIT – Buck Corless is one of those people who actually enjoys cleaning up after mother nature. 

Corless puts a deadline on himself when it comes to clearing the snow from his walk and driveway. 

"The mailman comes around about 10, 10:30 or 11 o'clock and I like to have a clean sidewalk for them," he said. 

However, Corless and the rest of us might not be thinking about the health risks involved with shoveling. That's because many Metro Detroiters have been doing it since childhood. You may shovel just as much snow as you did as a child, but you wouldn't think of running the same distance when you're 50 compared to when you were 20. Shoveling is the same thing. 

There's a different blood flow involved when shoveling because of the muscles being used that puts strain on your heart. 

The cold weather also challenges your heart. Blood vessels tighten, impairing the flow of blood. The cold air also constricts airways, making breathing more difficult. 

Even the time of day most people shovel can play a role. Cardiac risks are highers during the morning hours before you've had a chance to fully wake up and warm up. 

Moreover, consider taking it slow and shoveling for 10 minutes before taking a break and continuing later. 

Snow shoveling dangers

You should avoid shoveling snow if:

• You don't exercise regularly
• You have heart or lung disease
• You are significantly overweight
• You have general concerns about your health

Snow blowing is easier than shoveling snow. However, it's still a risk because you're working out in cold weather with heavy snow.