Exercises while in the air
Sitting still for a long time can become uncomfortable – even on the newest aircrafts. However, there are some simple exercises you can do to stop your muscles from becoming stiff during long-haul flights and they don’t even make you look silly. Simple exercises, every hour during a flight, help to keep your blood flowing and reduce your risk of developing clots. All these exercises can be performed while seated but when your seat does not allow you to exercise, then try to stand up periodically to walk up and down the aisle and use your legs (as you’re waiting for the restrooms to become available, for example), so you do not need to feel limited by the space. It is also a good idea to practice these exercises in the airport as well. Doing this is a good way to stretch sore and tired muscles.
1. The revolver
Lift both of your feet off the floor and rotate them in circles – five times clockwise and five times anti-clockwise.
2. The cuddle
Hold your left shoulder with your right hand and your right elbow with you left hand. Read that sentence again until it makes sense. Hold for 15 seconds then do the other arm. Repeat twice.
3. The ballerina
Keep your heels on the floor and point your toes up as far as you can. Then keep your toes on the floor and raise your heels. Repeat five times.
4. The shrug
Keep your arms still and roll your shoulders forwards five times. Then backwards, five times.
5. The knees up
This knees up is nothing to do with partying – though our crew will be happy to get you a drink! Lean forwards slightly, clasp both hands around your knee and lift it to your chest. Hold for 15 seconds, then do the other leg. Repeat twice.
6. The ‘Where’s my pen?’
Keep both feet on the floor, hold in your stomach and slowly move your hands down your legs towards your ankles. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds and slowly sit back up.
7. The inquirer
Lower your right ear to your right shoulder – like you’re really considering something – then roll your head around to your other shoulder. Hold each position for five seconds and repeat 10 times.
