Most business travelers don’t have a lot of time to work out, but there are solutions to everything. Besides choosing healthy food, staying active while waiting at the airport is a good start.
- Take the stairs.
Airports are often built on different levels, so taking the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator is a good way to get some exercise and get your steps in for the day. No skills are needed here, but every little bit helps. Walking is a low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that has a range of health benefits and few risks. It is recommended that most adults aim for 10,000 steps per day.
2. Discover the terminal.
In addition to taking the stairs, discover the terminal while you wait to board your flight. You might have done it before, but walking around helps with your steps, and you never know if you might discover something new during your stroll. All in all, before a long-haul flight, it is a good choice to get your body moving and your muscles working to get the blood pumping.
3. Stretch your muscles.
Sitting for a long time in a cramped space can get uncomfortable. You might feel discomfort and pain in your legs, back, shoulders, and neck. Find some time to stretch before boarding, increase movement and get extra oxygen into your body. All of these will lead to reduced swelling of the legs and feet. Small stretches can also be done while sitting on the plane.
4. Carry your luggage.
Carrying your luggage instead of using a trolley is only a small change, but it can make a big difference! Use your handbag as weight as you do some lifting while you walk around the airport. It all might sound crazy, but nobody will notice while you do this “secret” workout.
5. Check out the airport gym.
Not all airports have a gym, but with increasing fitness trends, some airports are following and participating in this new concept. Whether it’s a yoga session or a full gym work-out, if there is a gym, there will surely be something for you to stay active. Find out more about the airport you travel to at airportgyms.com. It’s just the beginning, but soon there will be more options around the world.
6. Get pampered at the airport spa.
Airports across the world have wellness, spa, and massage areas at their terminals. You definitely need to plan to arrive on time, but a good massage will help to relax and improve blood circulation, which is especially good before travelling. Reduced muscle tension reduces painful contractions and spasms as well as nerve compression.
7. Eat healthy.
Besides a low-impact workout or some stretching, it is always important to make healthy food choices. We already know that healthy eating requires willpower over time and a little planning here and there. Remember to stick to low carb and high protein dishes and always check that pre-packed food contains only one serving.
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8. Drink water.
We can’t say it enough: drinking water is important, especially before taking a flight! Firstly, don’t eat out of boredom; have a glass of water instead. Second, staying hydrated with water will allow you to recover more quickly during and after the flight. If you are not a fan of plain water, fill your water bottle with natural flavors such as slices of lemon, orange, or some berries. You can fill the bottle once you’re past security.
This is a guest article by Yannick and Ilse, long-term expat cooks who launched Culinary Ambition to share their passion for food and travel. They are members of our community and contribute a monthly column called “Healthy Treats” on how entrepreneurs can live a healthy lifestyle.
