Whether you’re going by plane, train, or automobile, traveling takes its toll on your body. You could be going for a whirlwind cabin weekend or a 2 week extravaganza bouncing around Europe. Either way there are a lot of factors impacting your body. That doesn’t mean it should stop us from traveling. It just means we have to be smarter when we do it. Today we are breaking down the 3 biggest factors that combat travel aches and pains. They will not only keep you going during those long travel days but continue to throughout your trip.
Hydration
I know that you don’t want to use that airplane bathroom or pull over every hour to go potty, but hydration is one of the biggest reasons people feel achy during and after travel. Water is the base foundation of our entire body. It’s in our cells, blood, muscles, digestive system, and anything else you can think of. Especially on airplanes, the environment is incredibly dry. Staying hydrated helps decrease inflammation, and allows the blood to flow easier to our muscles. Better blood flow means less cramping and better movement.
Dehydration also makes you feel sluggish and tired. Making sure you’re drinking more than enough water on your travel day will help you feel alert and allow your muscles to move better. To make sure you’re getting enough water, try setting an alarm on your phone to remind you to take frequent sips. Another way is to have a water bottle with ml markers. You can see how much you’re consuming and set a goal for the trip. So drink up! You might find it annoying, but those frequent bathroom stops go directly into our next tip.
Move
Frequently getting up and moving around during your travel day helps decrease travel aches and pains. Sitting stiffness is a thing! We have talked about it before when it comes to working a desk job. Sitting all day is not good for your body. It leaves your hip flexors and quads crunched up and short while your glutes are extended for far too long. Between the car, bus, airport, and plane, those seats are not good for us. Getting up to move around also promotes blood flow. Fresh blood to your muscles will help relieve that tight achy feeling. So go for walks around the airport. Try planning spots to stop at overlooks during your cross country car trip. Make your movement intentional and often.
Don’t let the idea of moving stop as soon as you get to your destination. After you arrive all you want to do is crash, I have been there! Instead, I highly recommend taking 20 minutes to stretch your legs and move around. I know it’s tempting to get in and relax because you can stretch out, but make part of that relaxation promoting blood flow to your muscles. Those things have been snoozing your entire trip. Take the opportunity to go out and spot a fun coffee shop to go to during your trip or see something you normally wouldn’t have. Moving and exercising your muscles will do more for you than you think.
Have A Routine
Everything is easier when you have a habit or a routine. Having a specific travel mobility routine will help you feel more like yourself and keep you going when the going gets tough! What am I talking about? A set of exercises that work for your body that will keep you feeling like you’re ready for your next big adventure. I know what you’re thinking. How am I going to do that when I don’t have any of my stuff? Easy! We have lots of great tips so you can keep yourself feeling 100% without any of your gear.
Here are 3 of our favorite exercises that don’t require any gear and will target your entire body!
Watch this video for everything you need to know about preventing travel aches and pains:
If you’re looking for an every day mobility routine to keep yourself feeling better than ever, check out our program MDFit Mobility. It offers daily mobility work! Start your free trail today.
