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