Aviation expos are fascinating. For all the industries you could think of that try to innovate, seeing what the technology of airplanes tries to do is crazy. From figuring out how best to maximize space with double-decker seats, to making middle seats face the other way with plastic barriers as prevention of Covid-19. There were even saddle-seats like a roller coaster to increase space. Bizarre. And apparently, for first-class flyers, there’s a concept to allow them to exercise while they fly.
A concept for a seat utilizes isometric strength training, for those who don’t want to skip leg day on a long flight. Isometrics involve exercise with little movement. The hope to emulate exercises like crunches and planks. Germany company Recaro are the ones responsible for this concept.
“The concept is working with muscle tension and pressure sensors to transfer the activity of the body within the seat to complete exercises done by the passenger,” a press release reads. “The goal is to enable the passenger to improve their physical fitness by use of gamified user experience to increase the motivation and improve strength and flexibility, increases postural control and stability, raise well-being and performance and to promote active health behavior.”
The concept itself doesn’t seem wholly bizarre. After all, long flights often have passengers stuck in their seats for many hours. Deep vein thrombosis is a danger when faced with high altitude and hours sitting. Unfortunately, there’s the exclusivity of first-class to consider. While those flying economy will rely on stretches and circulation exercises as before. Of course, this is only a concept, and the gauging of interest will determine whether its utilized.
