Warm up
As with any form of physical exercise, warming up your joints and muscles before heading into the garden to prune, dig or plant is important to prevent injury.
While gardening is a great low-impact workout, joint specialists at Churchill advise taking a few minutes before picking up your trowel or spade to do a few gentle stretches to warm up so you can enjoy being in the garden for longer. You can find a few suggestions from Churchill Orthopaedic surgeon Rick Wilson here
Protect yourself from sunburn
Protection from the harsh rays of the Marlborough sun is vital to avoid any nasty sunburns. Choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants that fit loosely. Wear gloves and use a wide-brimmed hat. And don’t forget your eyes. Wear sunglasses rated to block UV light.
Water is not just for the plants
It’s easy to head outdoors, especially at home and forget to look after our thirst. But exercise, particularly when the weather is warm, increases our bodies’ demand for hydration. So make sure you take regular water breaks or if working a distance from the house, take a water bottle with you.
Equipment
Depending on the tasks you are undertaking, it’s wise to think about protective equipment. Gloves if working with potting mix or harmful plants and substances. Earmuffs and goggles if using power tools. And closed in shoes when digging. Remember to keep containers or jugs used for fertiliser or spray separate and stored out of reach of children.
Look around
You might be digging or cutting high branches. Take care to locate electrical wiring or buried cables before you start, to avoid risk of electrocution.
Churchill Hospital is a proud sponsor of Rapaura Springs Garden Marlborough, 3 – 6 November 2022.
