Since I last blogged about raking leaves, I thought these tips on preventing injuries from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons via National Home Gardening Club would be appropriate. Before we all go out this weekend and hurt ourselves!
Walk through your yard. Pick up fallen branches, tree limbs, or debris that may cause you to trip and fall.

Stretch. Warm up muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise. Stretch your muscles after raking to relieve tension.

Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Watch what you're raking. Look for large rocks, tree stumps, and uneven surfaces. Wear shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles to prevent falls.

Use a rake that's right for your height and strength. Avoid using a rake that is too short or long. Allow space between your hands on the tool grip to increase leverage. Wear gloves to prevent blisters.

Vary movements. Alternate your leg and arm positions often. When picking up leaves, bend at the knees, not the waist. Keep leaf piles small, so you don't strain your back while gathering.

Follow these steps and reduce the injuries often associated with raking. Your body—and yard—will thank you!

Happy Raking -- if there is such a thing!

It's that time of year again. The leaves are everywhere, blowing in the front door and being trailed in by little paws at the back door. Time to rake it in! Here's a few types to consider via the National Home Gardening Club, plus my personal favorite at the end.

There's a variety of rakes out there, each suited to a different type of leaf collection. Use our guide to finding one that's right for you:
No-clog rake

Description: Durable plastic with wave-shaped teeth.

Advantage: Gentle for use in flower beds.Disadvantage: Design doesn't totally eliminate clogging.

Cost: $15 to $30

Leaf scoops or claws

Description: Tined scoop that fits over hands.

Advantage: Great for large piles of leaves.

Disadvantage: Have to be taken off and on to adjust bags, etc.

Cost: $8 to $20

Adjustable rake

Description: All-purpose with a moveable brace (shown above).

Advantage: Use the same rake for the lawn and in tight spots.

Disadvantage: Flimsy for large jobs.

Cost: $10 to $30

Shrub rake

Description: Short with small, lightweight tines.

Advantage: Perfect for tight spots. Disadvantage: Not for large jobs.

Cost: $5 to $20

Ergonomic rake

Description: Handle puts less strain on your back and shoulders.

Advantage: Fewer aches and pains.

Disadvantage: May feel awkward, depending on your body build.

Cost: $20 to $50

OK, while these all seem capable of getting the job done, my personal favorite is the Garden Grabber featured on QVC. Pictured here the Garden Grabber rake removes leaves, garbage, hedge clippings, and other debris from your lawn or flower bed with ease. The durable yet lightweight tool is made from steel and all functions can be operated without bending, stooping, or touching the pile. Rake, grab and bag all at once.

I can assure you, after using this for at least the last five years, it works. We just bought two more at the QVC Outlet Store in Rehoboth Beach while on vacation this past summer. I don't know how I'd manage without it! For more info or to order visit http://www.qvc.com/scripts/detail.dll?item=M1233

With so many types of rakes to choose from, you'll enjoy raking more when you invest in the perfect rake for your yard, budget, and body. Check your home and garden center for ideas.