Brits urged to take tennis ball with them if they’re flying

Yep, that’s right, you’ve been advised to take a tennis ball with you.

No, not so you can serve an ace up the aisle to catch an attendant’s attention, it’s actually to avoid stiffness or aches while in the air.

It can also be used to enhance circulation, intended to be used by gently applying pressure and rolling it up and down the thighs, legs, or even shoulders, according to health experts.

Registered osteopath and qualified sleep therapist Tracy Hannigan has recommended using a tennis ball in tandem with another teeny piece of paraphernalia.

She told The Metro: “A great tip is to find a hand towel, put the ball in the middle of it and roll it like a sausage. When you then apply pressure using the ball, it’s easier to position and will prevent it from skidding out of position, which can be painful.

“A tennis ball is small and light and can help you to apply soothing pressure to points you might otherwise not be able to reach.

“You can even stretch your lower back in your plane seat, by crossing your legs and leaning forward, as if you’re trying to reach down to the crossed-over foot with your elbow,” she added.

Here are the primary NHS tips for managing stiffness:

1. Movement and Exercise (Most Important)

Keep Active: Regular movement is the most effective way to reduce stiffness.

Gentle Movement: Avoid staying in one position for too long. Move for short periods every hour, even if it is just a short walk.

Low-Impact Activity: Engage in swimming, cycling, yoga, or tai chi to improve mobility without overloading joints.

Stretching: Perform daily stretches for affected muscles, moving joints through their full, comfortable range. Hold stretches for 20 to 30 seconds, repeating 2 to 3 times a day.

“Little and Often”: It is better to move gently throughout the day rather than doing one long, intense session.

2. Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat Therapy: Use hot water bottles, heat-rub creams, or have warm baths to relax stiff muscles and joints.

Cold Therapy: Apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a towel for up to 20 minutes to reduce pain and swelling, especially if the stiffness is due to a recent sprain or strain.

Temperature Control: Keep warm to prevent stiffness in cold weather.