Pain-free GARDENING

Do you suffer a few aches and pains while tending your plot? Try our tips and tricks for comfortable gardening

- CHRIS MORLEY

Gardening should be fun and relaxing, though aching joints, sore muscles and mobility issues can turn it into a frustrating and painful chore. But don't hang up your trowel just yet. Adapting how you work and trying different tools can make all the difference, allowing you to garden happily for years to come.

Back-saving basics

Bad digging techniques can double the load on your joints. Simple adjustments, like bending at the knee and using regular, repetitive movements, can literally save your back. For detailed advice, visit rhs.org.uk/ science/articles/digging techniques Be kind to your body by warming up before you start (a 10-minute walk will do it) and cool down with a few stretches. Other back friendly hacks include: *Setting a timer so you don't overdo it - 20 minutes 60 55 per job is plenty. Then do something  gentle, like making yourself a well-earned cuppa.