Get, stretch, fly: CISF initiative at select airports to prevent ‘potential health issues’

Currently, the two- to three-minute exercise sessions are being conducted at Srinagar, Jodhpur, Dehradun, Udaipur, Gwalior, and Bhuntar airports.

A senior CISF officer told The Indian Express, “We initiated voluntary stretching to enhance travellers’ waiting time at boarding gates. It is not only beneficial for passengers’ health but also helps prevent potential health issues caused by prolonged sitting or delays. Often, passengers avoid stretching in public for fear of looking odd, so we’ve made it an organised activity.”

Sources stated, “The Airport Security Headquarters has suggested to airport operators, airlines, and ASGs (Airport Security Groups) to implement brief exercise programmes to enhance the passenger experience. Stretching before boarding helps prevent muscle stiffness, improves blood circulation, reduces the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), and eases tension in key muscle groups such as calves, hamstrings, hips, shoulders, and neck.”

The CISF has trained its staff to guide passengers through six light stretching exercises, including side stretches, horizontal and vertical stretches, and calf muscle stretches.

“We have received an overwhelming response from passengers at airports where this routine has been introduced. During this foggy season, with frequent delays and extended sitting periods, these exercises are proving to be especially useful in improving blood circulation,” the officer added.

Michael, a foreign traveller at one of the participating airports, said in his feedback to the CISF, “I’ve travelled to almost every country in the world and been to India over 20 times, but I’ve never seen anything like this before. Officials were leading stretching exercises with passengers at the airport. It’s a fantastic idea, and I hope it continues.”

Similarly, an Indian traveller at Gwalior airport shared in a feedback video, “I really appreciate this initiative. When you sit for long periods, it affects your body and blood circulation. These stretching exercises are crucial, and I hope they continue.”

There have been instances where medical issues arise on flights due to poor blood circulation. However, the CISF is recommending the exercises only to passengers without significant medical conditions.