Worldwide Fitness: Stay Healthy While Traveling

Make the most of your next flight with our tips on staying healthy and feeling your best at 35,000 feet:

• Hydrate your body: Air is way dryer in the higher altitudes where airplanes fly, and the recirculation systems used in airplane cabins dry the air out even more. The lack of humidity sucks moisture from your body which can compromise the body's natural defense system and cause fatigue. Make sure to stock up on bottled water before your flight and avoid foods that are heavy in sodium. Fresh fruit is a great choice inflight due to the high water content. Presliced veggies are another good option to keep hydrated. Minimize coffee, sodas, and alcohol. Try packing a bag of your favorite tea and ask the flight attendant for some hot water to make yourself feel at home. 
  
• Keep your ears happy: The change in cabin pressure inflight can cause a condition known as "airplane ear." When the Eustachian tubes that drain the ears fail to regulate the pressure on the eardrums, they are prevented from vibrating as they should, causing pain. Being even slightly congested can aggravate the problem. You can find relief by activating the muscles in your jaw to open up the Eustachian tubes. Make sure you have your favorite gum on hand to chew during takeoff and landing, when pressure changes are most severe. Yawning and swallowing can also help to relieve the pressure and discomfort. 
  
• Fit in a workout before your flight:  One of the easiest things you can do to make a long flight so much better is to get a good workout in. Getting some physical activity done and taking a nice cold shower after makes it way easier to relax and look forward to sitting for a long period of time. The Abs and Fitness Design Deck is the perfect portable full-body workout pre and post flight. 

Happy Travels!