No
matter what date Easter falls on every year it seems
to mark the start of the gardening season. The garden
centres are packed, your neighbour has already mowed
his lawn, and it's no longer dark when you get home
from work so you can see the length of the grass and
all those weeds.
Going from winter hibernation to Scotland's answer
to Alan Titchmarch in one weekend is never easy. If
you want to finish the job and enjoy the products
of your labour make sure your body is just as willing
as your spirit before setting out with fork, spade
and secateurs.
Here are a few tips that may keep me from getting
a call for an emergency appointment.
-
Warm up - As with all exercise try some gentle stretching
first, then work up gradually with lighter jobs
that don't require too much bending.
-
Variation - Don't spend too long on one job, vary
the work to cut down on the strain.
-
Equipment - If you are tall try long handled spades
and forks, sharp blades are less effort than blunt
ones, and two wheeled wheelbarrows are easier to
handle.
-
Dress - Avoid tight jeans that restrict bending
of hips and knees. In colder weather wrap up to
keep muscles warm and flexible. Gloves will help
your grip and reduce damage to the hands.
-
Don't stoop - If you have to bend keep your back
straight and bend the knees.
-
Kneeling - If you have to kneel use a kneeling mat
to reduce strain on the knees. Alternate the knees
as well.
-
Digging - Keep the back straight and dig for short
periods only.
-
No jerking - Use smooth controlled movements and
don't jar the back.
-
Take your time - It will still be there tomorrow,
there's no rush.
-
Stop - If it hurts stop what you are doing. PAIN
SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED.
-
Hot bath - End the day with a hot bath or shower
to relax the muscles.
Just in case - Have my number near the telephone.
