As winter storms sweep across large parts of the United States, many homeowners find themselves reaching for a shovel to clear driveways and sidewalks. While snow removal may seem like a routine seasonal chore, heart specialists are warning that it can pose serious and sometimes deadly risks, particularly for older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Cardiologists say the combination of cold temperatures, sudden physical exertion, and heavy lifting can place extreme stress on the cardiovascular system. In fact, some experts compare snow shoveling to an unsupervised cardiac stress test one that may push the heart to its limits without any medical oversight.
Why Snow Shoveling Is So Hard on the Heart
A 2025 review from the Mayo Clinic found that just 10 minutes of intense snow shoveling can drive the heart to nearly 97 percent of its maximum capacity. For people who are not regularly active, that level of exertion can be dangerous, especially when paired with winter weather conditions.
Cold air causes blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and reduces blood flow to the heart. At the same time, lifting heavy snow often while bending forward and holding one’s breath increases strain on the heart muscle. The result is a sudden surge in cardiovascular demand that can trigger serious events such as heart attacks or dangerous heart rhythm disturbances.
While there is no official age at which someone is deemed “too old” to shovel snow, many cardiologists advise increased caution beginning in midlife.
Age Matters But So Does Fitness
According to Dr. Navjot Kaur Sobti, an interventional cardiologist at Northwell’s Northern Westchester Hospital in New York, the risks rise significantly after the mid-40s, particularly among people who are not physically active year-round.
“There’s no strict cutoff age,” she explains. “But once people reach their mid-40s and beyond, especially if they don’t exercise regularly, we tend to be more cautious.”
The concern becomes even greater for adults over 65, particularly those with known risk factors for heart disease. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking history, or a sedentary lifestyle.
Dr. John Osborne, a Texas-based cardiologist and volunteer with the American Heart Association, agrees. He emphasizes that men over 65 face especially high risk, though women are not immune.
“Unless you’re in excellent cardiovascular shape and conditioned for strenuous activity, it may be wise to ask someone else to handle snow removal,” Osborne says.
Who Should Avoid Shoveling Altogether?
For certain individuals, experts say shoveling snow should be avoided entirely. These include people who have previously experienced a heart attack or stroke, those who have undergone bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty, and individuals with known coronary artery disease.
“In those cases, snow shoveling simply isn’t safe,” Osborne notes. “The risks far outweigh any potential benefit.”
He adds that many cardiac emergencies occur in people who are typically sedentary those who spend most of their day sitting at a desk or in front of a computer.
“They might only shovel snow once or twice a year,” he explains. “That sudden, intense exertion after months of inactivity is often what leads to tragedy.”
The Hidden Danger of Cold Exposure
Beyond physical exertion, cold weather itself places added strain on the heart. Studies show that cold exposure contributes to nearly twice as many cardiovascular deaths as extreme heat. Low temperatures increase blood pressure, thicken the blood slightly, and raise the heart’s workload all of which increase the likelihood of a cardiac event.
Recent research published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that adults over 65 are especially vulnerable to temperature-related cardiovascular deaths. Wind, snow, and freezing conditions only compound the danger.
“It’s that sudden spike in blood pressure combined with heavy physical effort that makes snow shoveling so risky,” Sobti explains. “People often underestimate how intense the activity really is.”
Snow Shoveling vs. a Cardiac Stress Test
Cardiologists often compare the strain of shoveling snow to a cardiac stress test the controlled medical procedure used to assess heart function under exertion.
The difference? Stress tests are carefully monitored, gradually increased, and immediately stopped if warning signs appear. Snow shoveling offers none of those safeguards.
“It’s like putting yourself through a maximal stress test without supervision,” Sobti says. “For at-risk individuals, that can be extremely dangerous.”
Heart rates can soar rapidly, sometimes exceeding 170 beats per minute during heavy shoveling. By comparison, using a snow blower typically raises the heart rate to around 120 beats per minute still strenuous, but less extreme.
Warning Signs Not to Ignore
Experts stress the importance of recognizing early symptoms of heart trouble while shoveling snow. Warning signs may include:
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Chest pain or pressure
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Shortness of breath
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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A racing or irregular heartbeat
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Pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw
“These symptoms should never be brushed off,” Sobti warns. “If they occur, stop immediately and seek medical attention.”
Safer Snow Removal Tips
For those who are healthy enough to shovel and choose to do so, cardiologists recommend taking several precautions to reduce risk:
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Pace yourself: Take frequent breaks and avoid rushing.
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Use pushing motions: Sweep or push snow instead of lifting heavy loads.
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Shovel small amounts: Clear snow early and often, rather than waiting for heavy accumulation.
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Dress appropriately: Wear warm layers, gloves, a hat, and cover your nose and mouth to warm incoming air.
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Watch the weather: Be extra cautious during windy or extremely cold conditions.
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Stay hydrated: Dehydration can increase strain on the heart.
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Warm up first: Gentle stretching can help prepare muscles and reduce sudden strain.
When possible, experts recommend delegating snow removal to a younger or more physically fit person — or hiring professional help.
A Seasonal Reminder for Heart Health
Snow shoveling may appear harmless, but for many adults especially older individuals it can become a serious cardiovascular threat. Cardiologists urge people to honestly assess their fitness level, health history, and risk factors before tackling winter chores.
“The goal is to stay safe,” Osborne says. “There’s no shame in asking for help if it protects your heart.”
As winter continues, experts encourage people to treat snow removal with the same caution they would any strenuous physical activity particularly when cold weather adds another layer of risk.