AUSTRALIA. About to take off for a long-haul flight? Then it’s time to stretch out. No we’re not talking a reclining business class seat but a pre-flight flexology centre just opened by Sydney Airport in partnership with Stretch Studio.
The Terminal 1 (International) facility, an Australian airport first, is designed to enhance mobility and wellbeing through assisted stretching. It allows passengers a personalised session with a flexologist before boarding.
Flexologists employ a range of techniques to prevent stiffness and soreness from extended flight times. Making use of gentle pressure on limbs and holding stretches, flexologists work to lengthen muscle fibres, increasing blood circulation, decreasing the risk of cramps and deep vein thrombosis, and aiding pre-flight anxiety by releasing endorphins into the body.
General Manager Retail Sydney Airport Glyn Williams [who is about to take a long-haul flight himself to Helsinki, where he is a keynote speaker at the Airport FAB Conference -Ed] said the new Stretch Studio was the perfect concept for passengers travelling long distances. Many international flights are in the air for over ten hours, he noted.
“We’re very pleased to welcome Stretch Studio to T1, which offers a unique and convenient way for customers to feel physically and mentally more relaxed before they board,” Williams said.
Stretch Studio Director Yaron Remen welcomed the brand’s first airport venture. “I’m thrilled to bring Stretch Studio into Sydney Airport’s T1 International terminal,” he said. “Everyone who travels long distances on an aircraft knows that whether you’re in first class or economy, stretching before a flight is very beneficial.
“You can only get so far stretching yourself and it can be challenging to stretch alone. Our certified flexologists know when and how much to push, leading to a deeper stretch that will increase flexibility.”
The new health offering will complement Sydney Airport’s health and wellbeing portfolio which includes a Lorna Jane Active Living Room at T2 Domestic that features a dedicated yoga room.
