Gardening is widely regarded as a moderate to strenuous form of exercise. All that bending, lifting, digging and hauling burns calories and builds muscle.
But it can also strain backs and leave even the fittest among us aching the next day. And when we’re less fit, or have arthritis, a limited range of motion or other mobility issues, the once-pleasurable pastime can seem impossible.
But there’s no need to throw in the trowel.
Before heading out for a weeding or planting session, I wrap heating pads around my neck and lower back, which are my personal Achilles heels.
Five minutes is usually all it takes to loosen my muscles. Sometimes, I apply disposable, stick-on pads like those made by ThermaCare to whatever happens to hurt at the moment and wear them while I work. A few minutes of pre-gardening gentle stretching helps, too.
A little forethought can go a long
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