Not only can shoveling be onerous, it can be dangerous, too.
According to a new study in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, shoveling snow can raise heart rates to dangerous levels after just two minutes.
Wall Street Journal writer Wendy Bounds appeared on "Good Morning America" today to discuss the newest tools - including electric shovels and snow-melting mats - that help make snow cleanup easier and safer.
Snow Tools: The Shovel
Today's shovels have gotten a makeover. Rather than just a piece of steel on a stick, they have curved handles and deep scoops for shoveling or pushing snow while putting less strain on your heart and back.
Bare Ground spray product, $39.95 (one gallon of product and sprayer).
Experts' Tips for Shoveling Snow
It's important to know what type of snow you'll be cleaning. Light and fluffy snow requires a different technique compared with heavy, wet snow.
1. If it's light and fluffy, you can push it. Start in driveway center and push snow the longest distance to edge of driveway while you're fresh. The path will resemble a gentle arch.
2. Walk back to start (allow your body to recover) and push the longest distance to other side.
3. Go back to start, turn around and work in opposite direction.
