Watch the weather-
If it is a warm, sunny day, use sun block and stay hydrated.
Pick the right rake-
Select a rake with the right height handle, and use proper posture while raking. You should also wear gloves, so as to prevent blisters from using the rake. The proper raking technique involves standing upright and letting your arms and legs do the work. For injury prevention, ergonomic rakes are available for purchase at most hardware stores
Watch what your body is doing-
To keep your neck and back happy, stand upright and rake leaves to the side of you, alternating dominant hand now and then. Bend at the knees – not the waist – when picking up piles of gathered leaves. And avoid twisting to toss leaves. Instead, step to the side so your whole body switches position, not just your shoulders and back.
Avoid lifting with your back-
To avoid back strain, do not overfill bags of leaves. Do not sling the bag over one shoulder, but rather pull gently along the grass. Fill bags of leaves to a level you’re comfortable with, and can easily carry. Avoid any twisting or turning motions when carrying bags of leaves. When you pick up a leaf bag, make sure to use proper form and technique: bend at the knee; use your legs, not your back. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if something is too heavy for you.
Take small breaks-
The repetitiveness of raking can become painful after a while. Take a rest every 10 to 15 minutes. Sip on water to stay hydrated and stretch to release tension you may have built up.
