Frequently Asked Questions

About the Hero’s Shoveling Technique

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) :

Is this really the best shoveling technique?

After shoveling thousands of times prior to my martial arts training in my late 30’s and shoveling just like most people with a bent back and bent knees, there was always lower back pain afterwards. Sometimes on one side, sometimes on the other, sometimes both. After my training started, developing good body structure in my stances made all the difference. Now in my late 60’s and still using these stances for shoveling snow, it truly is much easier and with no lower backaches. This has convinced me this is the best way to manually shovel snow.

Note:  This is not recommended under icy conditions! 

How long will it take for my body to adjust to the low stances?

It all depends on your current state of health and physical condition. A good rule of thumb is if you can comfortably walk, run, and squat down, your body will adjust in one Winter. Bear in mind, these stances can be used in many other ways. The Horse Stance while doing dishes keeps your spine straight and continues to strengthen your lower body. The Front Stance while vacuuming imparts the same conditioning. Once you become comfortable in the stances, it is important to relax your lower body, keeping your spine straight, so you can easily transition from one stance to another. Like learning any new skill, just begin – be consistent- and the rest is easy.

What if I don’t follow the rhythmic breathing pattern?

Using these stances correctly with no rhythmic in and out breathing will cause you to get out of breath quickly and develop a need to take frequent breaks. This will prolong the task and it will not be as enjoyable if you have a large area to clear, especially if you have a long driveway. When you maintain a consistent breathing pattern of inhaling from the belly (diaphragmatic breathing from the belly, not thoracic breathing from the chest) when you scoop, and exhaling when you throw it off the shovel, you will be amazed how long you can continue without taking a break. 

Should I consult my doctor before attempting this shoveling technique?

It is always advisable to consult your doctor prior to engaging in any physical exercise. Young and old alike with heart conditions would want to avoid this level of physical exertion. However, this technique has the potential to better regulate overall body health on a light or moderate level, as well as, the full heavy level.

What are the physical changes that occur over time following this technique?

You will notice after shoveling the first Winter through several storms that your legs will feel much stronger, your breathing from the belly area will be fuller, your balance will greatly improve, your level of coordination will greatly increase from alternating sides, and your Spirit will be brighter whenever you finish the task. You will actually start enjoying the work, being out in Nature looking forward to the next storm!

Will this work shoveling heavy, wet snow?

Most definitely, but you have to strictly adhere to the technique!  

  • Lower yourself into the Horse Stance with as straight a spine as possible, scoop the heavy snow while inhaling – if you have to lean a little forward to get a full scoop, that’s ok. 

  • Pull the shovelful of heavy, wet snow into your hips close to the body. Make sure you tuck in your butt with a straight spine. 

  • Point your feet at a forty five degree angle to one side or the other, wherever you want to throw the snow, and transition into a Front Stance. 

  • Relax the body as you snap your hip in the direction you are facing, at the same time extending both arms with the shovelful of snow and exhaling. 

  • Bring the shovel back to the hips and return to the Horse Stance.

What are the minimum and maximum ages for utilizing this way of shoveling?

This technique can be learned at almost any age. The very young and the very old can learn it little by little, providing they are in good health. If you find it manageable whatever your age, the key is following the steps properly and being consistent. 

Are there other stances that can be used?

Yes!  They were not included in the book in order to keep the learning process simple, avoid confusion, and focus on the most critical, foundational stances to strengthen the lower body. Other stances that can assist and make the shoveling even more fun can be illustrated on the website if enough followers are interested. They are the Rooted Stance, Back Stance, and Turning Stance. 

Is it really that critical to alternate shoveling with the right and left sides of the body?

Absolutely!!!  Prior to refining this technique, shoveling in back to back storms taught me to regularly alternate sides. It is really just common sense. If you overuse the muscles on one side of the body, there will be an imbalance causing pain. Being right handed all my life, martial arts training developed better balance and coordination on both sides of my body. These are large muscle groups we work with shoveling, not small groups like writing your signature. It is easier to train the larger muscle groups on the opposite side of the body. Just do it… and keep doing it. You will soon begin to get a feel for it and it will begin to flow naturally. Don’t be tense, just relax. 

What is the best type of shovel to use?

Good question!  From experience, long, medium, or short straight shovels, either wood or metal, with a square or round ended scoop blade are very good. My personal favorite is a medium-sized shovel with a D-handle grip on the end and a square ended scoop blade. What is not recommended for this technique are the odd looking snow shovels with two separate grips, those with a bent handle, or those with very wide blades. They may be great for pushing snow, but in this case, not for lifting and throwing it.