Although we would all prefer to have direct flights whenever we travel, sometimes we cannot get around having a connection on route to our final destination. Most of us sit around drinking calorie ridden cocktails and noshing on trans-fatty, over-priced snacks, but what if I told you there are some healthy ways to kill the time before the next departure? Check out these healthy amenities at some of the most forward thinking airports across the globe.

1. YOGA

One of the worst side effects of travelling besides jet leg is begin stiff and sore from cramped economy quarters. Now yogi’s and those wanting to get centred and relieve stress can enjoy yoga sessions at one of four airports in the US. The San Francisco International Airport was the first of it’s kind offering travellers complimentary water refilling stations and 24 hour access followed by Dallas – Fort Worth, Chicago and Burlington, Vermont airports.

2.  NAP PODS

Nobody wants to feel deprived when arriving at their final destination and sometimes sleeping on a plane can be both difficult and awkward – and let’s face it, sleeping in a bed totally beats sleeping on a reclined chair mid-flight. If you happen to be travelling through Amsterdamn Schiphol or London’s Heathrow or Gatwick airports, you are in for a treat. Yotel’s chic nap pods come fully equipped with monsoon showers, luxe thread count sheets and free wifi. In Dubai’s International Airport, 10 Snooze Cubes contain full sized beds and are fully sound proof.

3. GOLF

Many travel all over to play at some of the world’s best golf courses, but now you can practice your short game and work on your swing at airport golf courses. The SkyCity Nine Eagle’s Golf Course located at Hong Kong’s International Airport is located on a beautiful little island and offers equipment rentals, luggage storage, a pro shop, flood lighting for night playing and a Thai restaurant.  Seoul’s Incheon Airport has Golf City located in the International Business Centre which boasts an 18 hole putting course, 330 yard driving range, fitness centre, sauna and swing analysis room.

4) SPAS

Remember when airport spa treatments only consisted of a 10 minute neck massage or express manicure alongside a departure gate? Well now you can find spa amenities that rival any high-end spa, many with private treatment rooms where travellers can enjoy hydrating oxygen facials and hot stone massages. The most lavish spa I’ve encountered in an airport is the Absolute Spa at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. With 5 private rooms offering over 130 treatments such as Hawaiian coconut lomi lomi massages and detox baths. Other notable mentions; Elemis Spa at London’s Heathrow Airport, OraOxygen Spa in Calgary,  The Ultimate Transit Haven Spa in Singapore Changi Airport, Xpress Spa at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, OM Spa at the Hong Kong International Airport, and the Timeless Spa in Dubai’s International Airport.

5.  GYM/FITNESS CENTRE

For those wanting a more calorie burning way to spend their layover, several airports have opened gyms for in-transit passengers. Only a few operate independently within a terminal, while most of the others are inside hotel’s connected to the airport. Passengers who are willing to pay a small fee can have access to pools, weight rooms, cardio machines, showers and sometimes a steam room and sauna. Going the extra mile…Munich’s Kempinski Airport Hotel & Fitness offers personal training sessions while Toronto Pearson International Airport’s Goodlife location offers luggage storage, change room, showers, in addition to Reebok shoe and clothing rentals.