While stereotypes downplay the physical demands of the flight attendant role, safely executing duties requires significant strength and endurance for both men and women. Here are some evidence-based strategies male attendants can adopt to maintain fitness for this safety-sensitive job:
Research by the FAA (2018) found attendants routinely lift over 25 lbs of luggage and equipment. Johnson conducted a 2010 study showing 89% reported lifting over 35 lbs alone. To prepare, McCarron recommends full-body strength training 2-3 times weekly focusing on compound exercises like squats and deadlifts using free weights or bodyweight.
Prolonged periods of sitting and restricted galley movement lead to risks for back strain or injury without counteracting activity (Boeing, 2015). Stretching and regular standing breaks every 60 minutes per Cabin Crew Safety (2019) recommendations help circulation and posture. Incorporate kneeling and spine rotation poses for 5 minutes upon arriving to loosen tight areas.
Rapid sprints down the aisle assisting medical emergencies or evacuations require cardiovascular endurance beyond average levels (Gibson et al., 2018). Building an aerobic base through high-intensity interval training like jogging intervals or rowing sprints for 30 minutes 3 times weekly aids meeting heavy workload demands.
Maintaining a consistent fitness routine ensures strength, mobility and stamina stay optimized for whatever unpredictable scenarios may arise. Small investments like bodyweight exercises in hotel rooms keep attendants safely performing to the highest safety and service standards.
References
Boeing. (2015). Cabin crew health and safety. https://www.boeing.com/commercial/cabin-safety/docs/cabin-crew-safety-and-health.pdf
Cabin Crew Safety. (2019). Prolonged sitting: Health risks and mitigation for cabin crew. https://doi.org/10.1080/14767058.2019.1696522
FAA. (2017). Cabin crew health and safety. https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/info/all_infos/media/2017/InFO17001.pdf
Gibson, E., Bindawas, S. M., Chijike, A., & Vollaro, D. R. (2018) Airplane cabin air quality and health. Atmosphere, 9(8), 306. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4433/9/8/306
Johnson, T. (2010) Cabin environmental control and cabin crew roles and responsibilities within commercial aviation. Cranfield University. https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/355629410.pdf
Comments