How to Tone Your Arms on an Airplane

When a busy travel schedule keeps you from exercising or leaves you feeling restless and stiff, it's time to get creative. Try these simple exercises the next time you're on an airplane, and arrive at your destination with renewed energy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carry-on Bags
• Books
• Sunday Newspapers
• Magazines
• Magazines
• Duffel Bags
• Magazines

1. Hold your carry-on bag or bags close to your body as you're boarding the plane. With your arms bent at a 90-degree angle, your body upright and your bags close to your body, you'll give your biceps a challenging workout.

2. Place the palms of your hands together with your elbows pointing out to the sides. Push your palms together as hard as you can and hold the position.

3. Grab a heavy book, a stack of magazines or a Sunday newspaper, and with your arms extended directly in front of you (elbows slightly bent), hold the position as long as you can.

4. Placing one hand on either armrest, gently straighten your arms as though you're going to stand up. Try not to use your legs to assist you. Return to your seated position and repeat. This modified dip can be done with your seat belt fastened loosely around your waist for added resistance.

5. Raise your shoulders up by your ears. Hold. Then relax and repeat.

6. Straighten your arms slowly above your head toward the ceiling while holding a carry-on bag or book close to your body, moving as if you're going to turn on your reading light. Return to the starting position and repeat.

Tips & Warnings

• A last-minute dash to the gate can make for an excellent warm-up.
• Enroll the passengers next to you to do the exercises with you.
• Be respectful of the passengers sitting around you.
• Always follow the safety guidelines set forth by the airline.
• The majority of the exercises can be done while wearing your seat belt.

on 11/22/2005 Always stretch your arms before doing exercises because it can be difficult to do the across-the-chest stretch when sitting next to someone. Be sure to put your hand over your opposite shoulder so as not to hit your neighbour. Also, try this one: Place your open hands together, palms inward. Place your feet shoulder width apart on the floor, and point your hands toward the floor between your knees. This is a good way to stretch your shoulders near your neck.