Working Out on the Road
How to Exercise and Stay Fit while Traveling by Air for Business
Apr 3, 2009
Business trips can be hard on not only an expense report, but on a body as well. Being crammed into a full-to-capacity airplane in an uncomfortable seat can leave business travelers feeling tired and achy. But by exercising either in flight or at the airport, muscles can be stretched and relaxed, making the flight a more enjoyable experience.
Park Away from the Entrance
For travelers arriving by car to the airport, park a comfortable distance from the entrance. This way, a little extra exercise can be worked into the day by walking to the terminal. Don't park too far away, however, if traveling with heavy luggage or returning after dark.
Walk the Concourse, Stretch at the Gate
If presented with the choice of taking a tram or a rail car to reach the gate, walk. In addition, choose to walk the concourse rather than riding the moving walkway.
While at the gate, do some stretches to help limber up. A few lunges, squats or hamstring stretches will help to warm up the legs, while extending the arms out and over the head will stretch the upper body, including arms, shoulders and back.
Work in a Workout While Waiting for a Flight
Many airports feature a fitness center that passengers can use for a small fee. See if the airport has one, and use it. Also, many airport hotels have a fitness room that can be used by not only hotel guests, but passengers as well. Inquire at the hotel front desk to see if a pass can be purchased.
Walk the Aisles of the Plane
Once on board the plane and the "fasten seat belts" sign has been turned off, get up and walk the aisle a few times. Make sure to return to the assigned seat if any turbulence occurs.
Stretch in the Seat
Many in flight magazines include instructions on how to do stretches while seated aboard the plane. Turn to the back of the magazine to see them. In addition, there are a few stretches that can be comfortably done while seated on the plane. For neck stretches, tilt the head to each side, holding it for 10 seconds at a time. For legs, raise each leg separately, so that the knee is at chest level, and hold the stretch. Or, lift each foot up off the floor and alternately flex and point the toes. To stretch arms, lift both arms up over the head or in front.
Business travel doesn't have to result in tired and sore bodies. By working out while traveling, travelers can help to relax their muscles and arrive at their destination energized, not exhausted.
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