As the seasons transition and the leaves begin to fall, it's time to prepare for the task of raking. While raking leaves can be a satisfying chore, it can also put strain on the lower back, leading to discomfort and pain. To help you avoid this unwanted outcome, here are five valuable tips to keep in mind while raking leaves.

1. Warm-up Before You Start

Prior to diving into the task, take a few minutes to warm up your body. Engage in simple stretching exercises that target the back muscles. Touching your toes, twisting from side to side, and performing seated leg extensions can help loosen your back muscles, reducing the risk of lower back pain.

2. Choose the Right Rake

Selecting the appropriate rake can make a significant difference in preventing lower back pain. Opt for a rake that is proportional to your height. If the rake is too long or too short, it will force you to adjust your posture, placing unnecessary strain on your back muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

3. Maintain Proper Posture

Maintaining the right posture during the raking process is crucial. Keep your legs slightly bent, distribute your weight evenly over your hips and knees, and extend with your arms. Use your arms to rake the leaves, avoiding excessive strain on your back. By adopting the correct posture, you can greatly minimize the risk of developing lower back pain.

4. Alternate Hands Regularly

To prevent muscle fatigue and imbalance, make it a habit to switch hands regularly while raking. By alternating the hand that is on top and the hand that is on the bottom, you ensure that both sides of your body share the workload evenly. Every 10 to 15 minutes, switch the position of your hands to prevent one side from becoming overworked, reducing the strain on your lower back.

5. Work With the Wind

Raking leaves can be physically demanding, so don't hesitate to seek assistance whenever possible. To make the task easier, try to rake in the direction of the wind. The wind's assistance will help move the leaves more effortlessly into a pile, reducing the time and effort required. By raking with the wind, you minimize the chances of the wind undoing your hard work and save your muscles, including your back, from unnecessary stress.