There is nothing quite like watching a snowstorm from the comfort of a soft couch, one hand holding a large mug of hot chocolate while the other hand rests on a purring cat. It is almost magical. Now if only the accumulation would magically disappear. Dream on. But as you bundle up, grab your shovel and make your way through the elements, beware.

“Shoveling can be good exercise, but can also be dangerous for some people – especially those who do more than they should,” said Derek Loupin, physical therapist. “It is important to know your limitations, particularly if you’re a senior and you’re not used to strenuous activity. After only a few minutes of shoveling, a sedentary person’s heart rate can rise to levels higher than those normally recommended during aerobic exercise.”

Proper snow shoveling techniques can reduce your risk for back injury or a heart attack.

“You should face the snow you’re about to shovel. Always keep your back straight, your knees bent, and throw the snow forward. Don’t throw snow over your shoulder because twisting while throwing snow behind you can cause back strain,” said Loupin. “In fact, experts recommend that you push the shovel to move the snow and avoid lifting whenever possible.”

Loupin has some other tips to help you survive the shoveling season:

. If you have a history of heart trouble, always get your doctor’s permission before picking up a shovel and heading out.

. Take it very slow and easy and pace yourself. Shoveling is like lifting weights and can cause a rise in your blood pressure and heart rate.

. Shovel only fresh, powdery snow as it is much easier than the wet, packed-down variety. While we have no control over what kind of snow needs to be shoveled, if it is not light and fluffy, hire someone to remove it. Don’t risk your health.

. If you get tired, stop. Don’t be a hero. And if you feel pain or tightness in your chest, definitely stop and contact your physician.

. Pick a shovel that is just right for you. By getting one with a smaller blade, you will lift less snow and consequently put less strain on your body.

. Remember to drink plenty of water before, during and after shoveling. Breathing cold air dehydrates the body.

. Tackle heavy snow in two stages. Begin by skimming off the snow from the top, and then remove the bottom layer. Avoid overloading the shovel.

. Don’t smoke or eat a large meal before shoveling. (However, a few chocolates can provide needed energy, right Derek?)

Now this may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how often it goes unheeded. Dress warmly and wear layers which trap air between them, providing heat. And wear a hat and scarf. Forty percent of body heat is lost through the head.

As my mother has always said, “Position is everything in life,” and it is true, at least with shoveling.

To help prevent injury and keep you off Loupin’s therapy table, stand with your feet about hip-width apart and keep the shovel close to your body. Remember, bend from the knees, not the back, and tighten your stomach muscles as you lift the snow. Don’t twist, tempting though it may be. If you need to move the snow to one side reposition your feet to face the direction the snow will be going.

There you have it. The next time your friendly weatherman forecasts a storm, you’ll be ready. But be careful out there. It takes only a minute to get injured, but often months to recover.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865 or log on www.eaaa.org.