Actually, the best thing to avoid pain from shoveling is not to have shoveling be the only excercise you have had in the last six months.  A regular cardiovascular and strength training regimen is the best ticket to pain free shoveling.  I've done it both ways and the latter is absolutely the better.

This storm has been a wonderful opportunity for people to work together and be kind to eah other.   As long as I've got heat, I'll take a snow storm anytime. It is a delighful surprise when a stranger in Boston not only literally extends a hand to help a cripple like me but also makes eye contact, smiles and is patient. When's the last time you heard a stranger say: "Here, take my hand"?

I love to shovel.  Have always loved to shovel.  When I was a kid, it was like watching money fall from the sky lol!