Thanksgiving is a day filled with food, family, and relaxation. But between cooking, catching up with loved ones, and enjoying a hearty feast, it’s easy to forget about staying active. The good news? A little movement before and after the meal can make a huge difference in how you feel. Here’s how you can make staying active part of your Thanksgiving tradition.
1. Start the Day with a Morning Workout
Kick off Thanksgiving with some movement to boost your metabolism and help balance out the indulgence later in the day. Even a short workout can leave you feeling energized and ready for the festivities.
- Go for a Walk or Run: Many communities host Thanksgiving Turkey Trots, which are often 5K fun runs or walks. Participating in one of these is a great way to get some fresh air, connect with your community, and start the day on a healthy note.
- Do a Pilates Session: A 20-30 minute Pilates routine can engage your core, improve your posture (especially helpful when sitting for a long meal), and enhance flexibility. This low-impact workout is perfect for getting you warmed up without wearing you out.
- Incorporate Family Fun: Get your family involved by playing a game of flag football, soccer, or even just tossing a ball around. It’s a fun way to bond while moving your body.
2. Stretch and Move While Cooking
Preparing a Thanksgiving meal often means long hours in the kitchen. Use this time to stay loose and avoid feeling stiff by incorporating mini stretches and exercises into your cooking routine.
- Calf Raises: While waiting for the turkey to cook, stand at the counter and perform calf raises. Lift your heels off the ground and hold for a few seconds, then lower. This helps improve circulation and keeps your legs feeling fresh.
- Countertop Push-ups: Use the kitchen counter for an elevated push-up, which is easier on the wrists and lower back. Do a few sets in between cooking tasks.
- Neck and Shoulder Stretches: If you’re chopping or stirring for long periods, take a break to gently stretch your neck and shoulders, preventing stiffness.
3. Take a Post-Feast Walk
After the Thanksgiving meal, instead of immediately sinking into the couch, take a gentle walk to aid digestion and boost your energy. Walking is a simple but effective way to help your body process the big meal you’ve just enjoyed.
- Invite the Family: Make it a tradition to take a stroll around the neighborhood after dinner. It’s a great way to continue the conversation while getting some light exercise.
- Go for a Nature Walk: If possible, visit a nearby park or trail for a more immersive post-dinner experience. Walking in nature can reduce stress and help you feel more relaxed after a busy day.
4. Stay Active with Fun Games
Instead of heading straight for the television or lounging after dinner, stay active with some light-hearted games that everyone can enjoy.
- Organize an Outdoor Game: Depending on the weather, a friendly game of touch football, frisbee, or even a scavenger hunt can keep both kids and adults moving.
- Indoor Games: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, indoor activities like charades, dancing, or even a family-friendly fitness competition (think squats, jumping jacks, or planks) can help burn off some energy.
5. Evening Stretch or Yoga
After a long day of cooking, eating, and socializing, take a few moments to unwind with some gentle evening stretches or yoga.
- Focus on Relaxation: Use this time to stretch your hips, legs, and lower back—areas that tend to tighten up after sitting for a while. A gentle flow or restorative yoga session can help you relax and prepare for a restful night of sleep.
- Deep Breathing: Don’t forget to include some deep breathing exercises, which help relieve stress and keep you grounded, especially if you’ve had a busy or overwhelming day.
Why Staying Active Matters on Thanksgiving
While it’s tempting to take a day off from exercise during a holiday like Thanksgiving, staying active has many benefits:
- Boosts Metabolism: A workout before the feast can help rev up your metabolism, making it easier for your body to burn calories throughout the day.
- Improves Digestion: Moving your body after eating helps your digestive system work more efficiently, preventing that heavy, sluggish feeling.
- Reduces Stress: The holidays can sometimes be stressful, but exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and promote a positive mood.
- Encourages Balance: Staying active helps balance out the indulgence, so you can enjoy your Thanksgiving favorites without feeling guilty.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with loved ones and enjoy delicious food, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your fitness goals. By incorporating a little movement before and after the feast, you can feel energized, healthy, and ready to take on the day. Whether it’s a family walk, a quick Pilates session, or a fun game of football, make staying active part of your Thanksgiving tradition.
