How to Shovel Snow the Right Way (and Not Hurt Your Back)

Why shovelling is more dangerous than it looks

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada estimates more Canadians are hospitalized from snow shovelling injuries than from any other winter activity. Cold air constricts blood vessels, sudden exertion stresses the heart, and heavy wet snow creates a perfect storm, especially for men over 45. Back injuries are even more common: the average Canadian makes 200+ bending-and-lifting motions per session.

Choose the right shovel

An ergonomic shovel with a bent handle reduces how far you bend at the waist by approximately 16 degrees, which over hundreds of lifts dramatically reduces disc compression. Choose a smaller blade: a full-size blade loaded with wet Alberta snow can weigh over 7 kg per scoop.

Proper technique

1. Push, don't lift whenever possible. Pushing snow to the side uses a fraction of the energy of throwing it.
2. Bend at the knees, not the waist. Keep your back straight and let your legs do the lifting.
3. Keep the load close to your body. Scoop small loads and keep them tight to your torso.
4. Don't twist while loaded. Turn your whole body by moving your feet, never rotate your spine with a full shovel.
5. Take breaks every 10–15 minutes. Fatigue is when most injuries happen.

The Brooks Chinook problem: ice layers

Chinook winds create a specific challenge: snow melts, refreezes, then gets covered by new snow, creating ice layers that are nearly impossible to shovel. Apply calcium chloride before the refreeze (it works at lower temperatures than sodium chloride and is less damaging to concrete). Once ice has formed, use an ice chipper with short strokes rather than prying up large sheets.

Salt vs. sand: which is better?

Salt melts ice; sand provides traction. Salt is corrosive to concrete over time and harmful to lawn edges. For Brooks driveways and walkways, a combination approach works best: calcium chloride to melt, sand on residual wet ice for traction.