Elf and Safety for Snowball Fights!!

It’s that time of year again when snowball fighting is on the cards. Most people take a fairly casual approach to snowball fights, but this guide aims to separate the winners from the losers by giving you that vital edge in combat.

Equipment.

There are only 2 really crucial pieces of equipment. The first is snow, any type can be used but probably best avoid the yellow stuff. The second and equally as important, is at least one functioning pain free arm. If there is no snow, then you’re stuck. However if it’s the arm that’s a problem, pop along to one of our free drop in clinics to get it looked at.
Not as crucial are some leather gloves, you can snowball fight without gloves but you risk frostbite, and woolly gloves can impair your release, so if you really want to be victorious get the leather gloves on.

Warm Up.

Rarely does a day go past in the Christmas season without someone asking me; “How should I warm up for a snowball fight?” Now as with any activity, the first thing is to get your body temperature raised by 5-10 minutes of aerobic exercise. Having a brisk walk to the shop for a hot chocolate or to buy some leather gloves should suffice. The hot chocolate will also provide much needed energy. Follow this with some simple range of movement exercises. Turn your head side to side, bend side to side at your waist, to aid in evasive manoeuvres. Then take your practise snowballs and gradually increase your velocity and ferocity of throwing until you’re ready for action. Making snow angels is also considered a very effective snowball fight warm up as it combines aerobic exercise with range of motion exercises.

Technique

Unfortunately we don’t have space here to go in depth on the biomechanical issues surrounding effective snowball combat. However, one of the best ways of learning a new technique is by watching video footage of an expert in the given field. In the case of snowball fights I would direct you towards 2003 smash hit movie “Elf” starring Will Ferrell. Admire the accuracy and poise of Buddy the Elf as he single handedly takes out his opponents. With practise you too can be this good.

The Aftermath.

If, despite this highly technical advice, you find that you still suffer from some post snowball fight aches, then have a look at our website or pop in to see who can help you best. You may need to see one of our physiotherapists, our osteopath, or possibly a nice relaxing hot stones massage to get you back on track.
It’s that time of year again when snowball fighting is on the cards. Most people take a fairly casual approach to snowball fights, but this guide aims to separate the winners from the losers by giving you that vital edge in combat.

The Perfect Christmas Gift

Just check out our range of health products, for your ideal Christmas present.
We’re taking orders now for Christmas... so come and try them out at the clinic or order your Massage Gift Certificate now!
Your last order date for the products below is 13th of December.
With kind regards,
The Physiotherapy Centre

• MiniMassager
• Infrared Massage Unit
• Shiatsu Massage Pillow
• Orthopaedic Shaper Deluxe Mattress
• Pure Memory Foam 'Original' Mattress
• Memory Foam Pillow
• Foam Rollers
• Gift Certificate for the perfect massage

MiniMassager £11
.... your perfect stocking filler
• Vibration massager with 3 illuminated massage heads
• Portable on the go massager, for the home or office

Infrared Massage Unit £55
.... Just like having your own massage therapist at home!
This is a powerful tapping massager, ideal for deep tissue or relaxation.
Features:
• Adjustable power setting
• East to remove handle
• Infrared setting for a subtle heating effect

Shiatsu Massage Pillow £60
.... ideal for stiff and aching necks & backs
Features 4 rotating Shiatsu massage heads rotating in pairs, to soothe your sore bits

Orthopaedic Shaper Deluxe Mattress
.... the comfort of memory foam with the support of pocketed springs
(from £610, price varies with mattress size)

Pure Memory Foam 'Original' Mattress
.... for quality, luxury and comfort
(from £450, price varies with mattress size)

Memory Foam Pillows £44
.... to cradle your neck in supportive comfort

Foam Rollers £14
.... a perfect exercise companion

Or buy your Gift Voucher(from £30) and treat someone to a luxurious Massage
.... Just call 0131 556 1116/ 0141 332 6000- you can pay over the phone and receive your Voucher in the post