(by Karen Springen in Newsweek)
“A football injury makes a better story, but raking leaves could be the sport that sidelines you this fall. To avoid injuries, follow these tips from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Dress in layers that you can shed as you work up a sweat, with gloves to prevent blisters... If your back has been injured before, wear a simple brace (available for about $20; ask the pharmacist for fitting details). Stretch your shoulders before you hit the yard, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and start slow. Rake strokes that are short and steady are the best, so that you don’t overextend yourself and pull a muscle. Don’t overstuff trash bags, either. Move the bags around in a wheelbarrow —and if you get tired, recruit the kids to lend a hand. But make sure you bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back, while you load the bags in. Because ‘repetitive activity creates soreness,’ says Marjorie Albohm, a certified athletic trainer, cap off your raking with a warm bath or shower. It’ll help reduce sore muscles...”
Then schedule your next massage!
