Have you ever crossed multiple time zones in just a single trip? You’ve most likely experienced jet lag, which is the disturbing feeling that you could possibly throw up, pass out, or collapse at any instant. To your body, it might seem like the middle of the night, but to your mind, it is the middle of the day. Your body is finding it hard to adjust, and it is what causes symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Fatigue and Exhaustion
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Constipation or Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Problems with Memory or Coordination
When you are dealing with jet lag, the last thing that you want to do is to exercise. Then again, a good workout might actually help adjust your body clock while alleviating the jet lag symptoms. Research has shown that outdoor workout may help resynchronize the body, which you will find 3 essential times when exercise will help you the most:
Exercising Prior to Your Flight
While you are still full of energy and fresh, do a high-intensity workout prior to your flight to burn much more calories and overcome any kind of travel stress. For those who have a really early flight, you might not have enough time for any full workout, but a couple of brisk laps round the airport terminal before boarding works just fine.
Stay Active During Your Flight
It is difficult to maneuver in a small space, but any kind of movement will help keep your blood flowing and allow you to feel rather less tight and cramped. Stand up and walk around if you’re able to or, if that is not an alternative, try out some isometric exercises.
Easy In-Flight Exercise:
- 20 glute squeezes
- 20 inner leg squeezes
- 20 triceps dips
- 20 leg extensions – both legs simultaneously
- 20 ab twists
- 10 shoulder rolls forward and back
- Twisted shoulder stretch – hold it for just 30 seconds
- Neck stretch – hold it for 30 seconds
- Seated stylish stretch – hold it for 30 seconds on both sides.
Exercising As You Arrive
You might find that the worst symptoms of jet lag occur 2-3 days as you arrive. To avoid this, try to exercise the moment you arrive, no matter if it is just a short walk or a couple of exercises in your hotel accommodation.
Watch the video for some added tips to avoid jet lag.
Easy Tips and Exercises to Reduce Jet Lag
There isn’t much study on the most effective exercise to relieve jet lag, just pay attention to your body and do what you think best. High-intensity cardio might be impossible if you are exhausted, as well as your body seems like it weighs twice as it usually does. If that is the situation, consider doing a light bodyweight exercise, a stroll or some stretching and don’t forget you will be back to your old self in a couple of days.
Together with exercises, you need to consider simple measures to avoid jet lag. A few days prior to your flight, get a good night’s sleep.
- Drink lots of water a few days before and during the trip
- Stay away from caffeine or alcohol before and during the departure
- Make use of ear plugs on the flight in order to avoid any disturbances while taking your nap
- Have some light snacks for you to eat during your flight
Get more tips and advice at Dangerously Fit bootcamps. If you want to book a personal trainer or you would like to book a free consultation, visit our official website at www.dangerouslyfit.com.au.