If you’ve ever traveled for long distances on an airplane, you know what a strain the stress of travel and cramped spaces can put on your body. Stretching and doing some simple exercises to increase your body’s comfort while traveling are surprisingly easy to do. They can re-energize you and even help relieve a variety of travel ailments including neck pain, back pain and fatigue. Here are 3 ergonomic safety tips for airplane travel.
3 Airplane Ergonomic Safety Tips
1. Do Stretches
Lunges
In the airport or down the airplane aisle, do a few easy lunges to keep your leg muscles active. This is a great activity mid-flight.
Thigh Stretch
This simple stretch will re-energize your legs and is good to do near the end of a flight. Simply stand up and grab one of your ankles, stretching your quadriceps. Hold for 5-10 seconds then switch legs.
2. Easy Ergonomics Exercises
Neck Rolls
Doing gentle necks rolls on the airplane can help relieve pressure and stress in your neck and upper back. When sitting on an airplane for hours, your neck can get kinked if it’s bent over while you’re reading or sleeping awkwardly. Sit up straight in your seat with your feet flat on the floor. Make sure your shoulders are straight and back, and gently roll your neck around in small circles, slowly rotating one direction. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
Shoulder Shrug
Doing an easy shoulder exercise can release tension from your whole body. Sit up straight on the airplane then shrug your shoulders up and hold for 5 seconds, release your shoulders and repeat 5 to 15 times.
3. Go for a Walk
Either when you’re waiting for the flight at the airport or if you’ve been on the plane for hours, try to take a walk. When the fasten seatbelt sign goes off and it’s safe to move around the cabin, get up and stretch your legs walking up and down the aisles. Use these ergonomics tips to help ensure your next airplane ride is safe, healthy and comfortable. Doing these stretches and exercises will allow you to be comfortable during your flight and help you avoid injury. For more ergonomic safety tips for airline travel, be sure to visit the We’ve Got Your Back store in Los Gatos, California.
Photo Courtesy of:Kitty Terwolbeck
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