How often should I move on a long flight?

Maintaining Comfort and Circulation on Long Flights: How Often to Move

Embarking on a long flight can be physically demanding, especially when it comes to maintaining comfort and circulation. Prolonged sitting can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and even circulation issues. To mitigate these effects, it is crucial to incorporate regular movement into your in-flight routine.

Recommended Frequency of Movement

The ideal frequency for standing up and moving around on a long flight is approximately every one to two hours. This interval allows you to break up the prolonged sitting period, promote circulation, and reduce muscle stiffness.

Benefits of Moving

• Improved Circulation: Movement helps to stimulate blood flow throughout the body, preventing it from pooling in the legs and causing discomfort.
• Reduced Muscle Stiffness: Standing and stretching helps to prevent muscles from contracting and tightening, reducing stiffness in the legs, back, and neck.
• Increased Comfort: Incorporating movement into your flight routine helps to alleviate the discomfort associated with prolonged sitting, such as lower back pain, leg numbness, and neck strain.
• Reduced Risk of DVT: Prolonged sitting can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious blood clot that can form in the legs. Regular movement helps to keep blood flowing and reduces the risk of blood clots.
• Improved Mood and Alertness: Standing up and moving around can help to improve mood, reduce fatigue, and increase alertness.

Tips for Moving on a Long Flight

• Get up and walk: Take a walk around the cabin every one to two hours. Use the opportunity to stretch your legs, visit the restroom, and stand in line at the galley for food or drinks.
• Stretch and move in your seat: While you’re seated, perform simple stretches to keep your muscles active. Rotate your ankles, flex your feet, and stretch your legs by extending them forward.
• Use the aisle space: If you have a window or aisle seat, use the space next to your seat to stretch and move around.
• Take advantage of the overhead bins: After stowing your luggage, use the overhead bins as a support for stretching and doing light exercises.

Conclusion

Maintaining comfort and circulation on long flights requires regular movement. Aim to stand and move around every one to two hours. This simple routine will help to prevent muscle stiffness, improve blood flow, reduce discomfort, and enhance your overall in-flight experience.