Are you too old to shovel snow? Experts warn of hidden heart risks

Snow removal is a common winter task, but health experts warn that shoveling can place unusual stress on the heart, especially for older adults and people with cardiovascular risk factors. A 2025 Mayo Clinic review found that just 10 minutes of heavy snow shoveling can push the heart to about 97% of its maximum rate, a level typically seen during intense physical exertion. In addition, exposure to cold air can constrict blood vessels, raise blood pressure and reduce coronary blood flow, creating a potentially dangerous combination for susceptible individuals.

There is no official age cutoff for when snow shoveling becomes unsafe, but doctors say caution is prudent as people age and as risk factors accumulate. Dr. Navjot Kaur Sobti, M.D., an interventional cardiologist at Northwell’s Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, New York, told Fox News Digital that generally, those over the age of 45 should exercise more caution, particularly if they are less active or not regularly exercising. She stressed that the risk rises notably for those 65 and older who have conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity or a sedentary lifestyle.

“If you are above 65 and have risk factors for heart disease, we recommend being very cautious about shoveling snow,” Sobti said. Dr. John Osborne, M.D., a Texas cardiologist and volunteer for the American Heart Association, endorsed a similar warning for people older than 45, especially men over 65, noting that unexpected exertion is a common trigger for cardiac events. He added that, unless a person is in good cardiovascular shape, it may be wise to ask for help removing snow.

The heart stress from shoveling resembles, and can exceed, the stress of a clinical cardiac stress test, Sobti explained. Cold temperatures can trigger vasoconstriction and spike blood pressure, which—together with the physical exertion of lifting snow—can tax the heart, particularly in those with preexisting conditions. “It’s almost like an at-risk person is putting themselves through an unsupervised maximal exertion stress test without a cardiologist actively monitoring them,” she said.

The cold itself compounds risk beyond the exertion. Recent research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that cold exposure accounts for nearly twice as many cardiovascular deaths as heat exposure, with higher temperature-related death rates observed in people over age 65. Sobti cautioned that the combination of sudden blood pressure rises and the physical demands of shoveling can be especially hazardous for older adults and those with hypertension or prior heart disease.

To reduce risk, Sobti recommended having someone else handle snow removal when possible. If shoveling is unavoidable, she advised pacing oneself, using a pushing or sweeping motion rather than heavy lifting, and dressing for cold conditions. Covering the mouth and nose, wearing a hat and gloves, and paying attention to wind and moisture can help protect against cold-induced stress. Some people turn to automated snow blowers, but even these can raise heart rates; the American Heart Association notes that a snow blower can elevate heart rate to about 120 beats per minute, compared with roughly 170 beats per minute for traditional shoveling.

Any warning signs during shoveling—chest pain, shortness of breath, a racing heart or palpitations—should not be ignored. If symptoms occur, stop immediately and seek evaluation, even if they subside after a few minutes, Sobti said. “It’s better really to be safe than sorry.”

[Image: Older man shoveling snow]

Health news and safety guidance continue to emphasize prudence for anyone with cardiovascular risk factors during harsh winter weather. While snow shoveling is a common seasonal chore, the potential heart risks highlight the importance of gradual fitness improvement, checking with a healthcare provider about individual risk, and seeking assistance for heavy or prolonged snow removal when possible.

For those who experience any concerning symptoms during winter activities, medical professionals advise erring on the side of caution and contacting emergency services if necessary. Keeping a careful eye on heart health during the snow season can help reduce the chance of a serious event and ensure safer, more manageable wintertime routines.