CRUNCH TIME
Unusual reason you should never do exercise before a long-haul flight, according to expert
She also gave the best advice on how to beat jet lag
AN expert has revealed the surprising reason you shouldn't do exercise before hopping on a long-haul flight.
If you're one of those who love working out before a trip, you might need to think twice.
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Many of us might think that exercising before a flight is a smart move.
But turns out we are wrong as laziness may be the best approach to get through a long flight, says sleep expert Rachel Beard.
According to Ms Beard, sleep wellness manager at A.H. Beard's Sleep Wellness Centre, you shouldn't overexert yourself physically right before a trip.
She told Escape: "A long haul flight is stressful for your body, so while some people find a workout before a flight helps to make them tired, it can actually make your body’s repair system work overtime when it should be settling down for sleep and recovering from travel stress."
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The expert said that light exercise such as yoga or going for a walk is fine, but flyers should steer clear of any high intensity activity before heading to the airport.
The best way to combat jet lag is to begin well in advance of your travel.
Ms Beard advises you to gradually adapt your body clock to the timezone of your destination in the days leading up to your journey, so that your body is ready when you land.
She added: "It’s also important to make sure to time any caffeine and food around your flight to be in keeping with this schedule too.
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"Then, when you arrive at your destination try to get 7-9 hours sleep in a pattern aligned to your destination’s timezone, this is a great way to set yourself up for success."
"Getting 7-9 hours in one sleep session is ideal but aiming for 7-9 within a 24 hour window is also worthwhile.
"Unbroken is best but multiple short sleeps will also help to keep you feeling fresh."
Finally, selecting comfortable clothing and footwear is critical to keeping your body happy on a flight.
Ms Beard recommends relaxing your shoelaces when wearing trainers or supportive sandals with socks.
She said: "This really comes down to personal preference — as long as your feet are protected, warm, and not cut off from circulation then wear whatever shoes work best for you!"
"For me, I don’t actually find Birkenstocks that comfortable so instead my go to is always a sneaker and high comfy socks.
"I like to opt for a sneaker as I’m often walking around the airport a lot before a flight so it makes sense for that (but as soon as I’m on the flights I loosen my laces or slip into a slipper)."
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