This week, as snow covers various regions in the United States, heart health specialists are cautioning that shoveling snow can be quite strenuous for the heart, especially for older adults.
According to a Mayo Clinic study from 2025, just 10 minutes of shoveling heavy snow can push your heart rate to around 97% of its maximum. Additionally, the cold air can spike blood pressure and diminish coronary blood flow.
While there’s no formal age considered “too old” to shovel, some cardiologists suggest that individuals over 45 should be extra careful to reduce the risk of heart incidents.
“We don’t have a strict age guideline, but it’s often those in their mid-40s or older. We’re particularly cautious with those who aren’t very active,” stated Dr. Navjot Kaur Sobti, an interventional cardiac specialist at Northwell’s Northern Westchester Hospital. She emphasized the importance of regular exercise.
“Those over 65, especially with heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle, should approach snow shoveling with considerable caution,” she advised.
Dr. John Osborn, a cardiologist in Texas and a volunteer with the American Heart Association, echoed these sentiments for individuals over 45, particularly men over 65.
“Unless you’re in good cardiovascular shape and physically fit, it might be wise to enlist some help,” he noted.
The risks associated with snow removal are particularly critical for those with existing cardiovascular conditions or a history of heart issues. “Those who have experienced heart attacks or strokes, or have had procedures like bypass surgeries or angioplasties, should absolutely avoid shoveling snow,” Dr. Osborn cautioned.
He further explained that heart attacks are more likely in individuals who lead a mostly sedentary lifestyle. “If someone typically sits at a computer all year and then suddenly attempts to shovel heavy snow, that spike in activity can tragically lead to serious health issues,” he added.
Hidden Strain
Sobti highlighted that the effort involved in shoveling snow can place extraordinary stress on the heart, potentially matching or even surpassing what one would feel during a cardiac stress test.
The cold can constrict blood vessels, causing blood pressure to soar, and combined with the physical exertion of shoveling, it can put immense pressure on the heart.
“It’s akin to an at-risk individual engaging in a maximum exertion test without any medical supervision,” Sobti mentioned.
Besides the physical demands of shoveling, the harsh temperatures can also exacerbate the situation. New findings indicate that cold exposure may be responsible for almost twice as many cardiovascular fatalities as heat exposure. Additionally, older adults have shown higher rates of mortality related to temperature extremes as indicated in a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
“The risks are quite significant,” Sobti warned. “It’s primarily due to the intense physical effort of clearing snow along with the sudden increase in blood pressure.”
Safer Snow Shoveling Tips
Cardiologists advise having someone assist with snow removal. If you find yourself shoveling, Sobti suggests employing pushing or sweeping motions rather than lifting heavy loads.
To shield yourself from the cold, she recommends covering your mouth and nose, wearing gloves and a hat, and being particularly cautious on windy days.
Using an automatic snow blower can still elevate your heart rate, reaching about 120 beats per minute compared to 170 beats per minute from shoveling, according to the American Heart Association.
Sobti also highlighted the importance of recognizing potential symptoms of heart disease while shoveling.
If you experience any warning signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, it’s crucial to seek help immediately—even if the symptoms lessen after a few minutes. “You could still be having a heart attack and should call 911,” she emphasized.
“It’s definitely smarter to be cautious than to take chances.”
