LAWNWORK 101

by Brianna Ryan

With the beginning of fall you may consider participating in a multitude of outside tasks involving your lawn. These simple activities do require a bit of precaution before beginning work. A change in activity, including amount of outdoor exercise, and involvement with your body can be a serious issue. If you prepare yourself properly and follow these simple steps you can be in tune with your body and how to react if a problem occurs. Don’t get caught in the leaves, be prepared with a smart start to outdoor exposure.

A Slow Start!
The first day you begin your lawn work just do a small portion of your overall goal. Create small goals to complete. Work your way up weekly with more involvement towards the completion of your lawn. You don’t want to overwhelm yourself with too much work. Pace yourself and take frequent breaks, eventually you will be able to work for longer periods of time.
Work With a Friend!
Be sure that you work with a partner. Plus, working with someone else makes the work more fun! Being mentally prepared is the first step to a beautiful finish!
Physical Awareness!
Being physically prepared for the job is another major preparation. By having a slow start to your routine is important. By incorporating a “warm-up” before you start working decreases risk of an accident or injury. A great warm-up for any age is stretching your muscles according to how much activity will be performed that day. Taking time to stretch your body will contribute to your flexibility and readiness for attacking your lawn.
H20 – Water!
Hydration of the body is very important when active. Drink as much water as you can before, during, and after your outdoor work. Water is one of the easiest ways to ensure your safety and well being.
Eating Right!
Having a balanced diet is a must for any active person. Carbohydrates always provide a quick burst of energy. Other foods including meat, poultry, fruits and vegetables give you the nourishment needed to energize the body.
Know your Surroundings!
To avoid any possible injury, scan the area of your yard that you’ll be working. Take note of any small ditches, holes or drop offs, also, if you have a septic system or electric lines, know their location.
Proper Clothing!
With the oncoming of colder months a change of apparel is important. Proper clothing should be worn at all times to provide your body with basic protection. Some suggestions for clothing are jackets, which protect your upper torso and keep you warm! Boots, possibly steal toe, to protect your feet from heavy tools, and other equipment. Long pants; provide protection from stinging insects and or poisonous vegetation.
Awareness of Symptoms!
Pain and strain, which include stress, is not a healthy sign from your body. Know your limits when carrying heavy loads. Don’t overdue the amount of weight your body can transport. If you feel soreness in your muscles, you are most likely adjusting to the increase in activity. But, sharp pain is not something to ignore. If you experience any pain take a break from the yard work. However, if problems persist inform a doctor. You should also ask what kind of work you may be involved in if you have heart condition or any other serious conditions before making a routine.
Equipment!
Be knowledgeable about what kind of tools and equipment you should be using. According to body type and kind of work, consider what tools will be the best fitted for your needs. Rakes, leaf blowers and lawn mowers are all popular choices for autumn work. Choose carefully.

The bottom line: When beginning any kind of outdoor yard work

be prepared,
be careful,
and be smart!

Brianna Ryan is a senior at Hereford High School. She is currently completing her senior internship with Hereford Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine to fulfill her graduation requirements. Brianna is interested in pursuing a career in healthcare following graduation.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our physical therapists or athletic trainers.