Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and indulging in delicious food. If you are anything like me, you look forward to and love traditional Thanksgiving food at a family Thanksgiving table. As much as I love the food, I also hate how I feel if I sit on the couch all day and then eat my largest meal of the year! One way I enjoy the day but still feel good is by participating in a Family Turkey Trot. In this blog post, we will explore what a Turkey Trot is, how it can get your Thanksgiving off to a great start, and how to organize one for your family. So, lace up your running shoes for a Family Turkey Trot!

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What is a Turkey Trot?

A Turkey Trot is a festive running event . Most of the time the race is either a 1 mile fun run or a 5K distance. The event takes place on or around Thanksgiving Day. It is typically a non-competitive run or walk designed for people of all ages and fitness levels. If you are not a runner or a beginning runner- you’ll be in the right place!

Turkey Trots are usually walker-friendly and there will be a wide variety of speeds and abilities. Many Turkey Trots also allow strollers, dogs, or young children on bikes. If you are a more advanced runner, this might not be the place to try to PR as there will likely be kids, dogs, and newbie racers in the mix. You can still enjoy a great training run and feel good that you were able to get some miles in even on a Holiday.

How to prepare for a Family Turkey Trot:

Unless you plan your own, you will typically need to register through a race site to officially be part of the race and get a race (bib) number. You can locate a race in your area or where you will be onThanksgiving on Running Race Finder. Depending on the length of the race and your fitness level, prepare as much as your schedule will allow. This is a great 5K training plan for beginners.

Other than training, make sure you and your family members have the right gear for the Turkey Trot! Comfortable running shoes and clothing are essential! Depending on where you are located and the time of day, a Turkey Trot can be COLD! If you don’t typically run or exercise in cold weather, here are some of my favorite workout clothes and accessories for cold weather training and running.

The Benefits of a Family Turkey Trot

1. Bonding Time

Participating in a Turkey Trot as a family allows everyone to spend quality time together. We try to set a good example for our kids by maintaining a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise. We like to run or go to the gym and our kids participate in sports. I love a Turkey Trot because it’s one of the only events we can all participate in together as a family. We participated in Turkey Trots when the kids were little and in strollers. We walked them as babies in carriers. Now that they are getting older they like to run or walk along side us! I’m actually not sure how much longer I will be able to keep up with my 9 year old son!

The holidays can be a wonderful, but stressful time of year. Everyone can benefit from some active time together outside! It is also a great way for the kids to get some energy out if they will be inside or have to sit still later in the day.

2. Festive Atmosphere

Turkey Trots are known for their festive and lively atmosphere. Participants often dress up in Thanksgiving-themed costumes or wear turkey hats or turkey tutus. The event typically includes music, cheering spectators, and even post-race celebrations like hot chocolate or face painting. All these festivities make for a memorable and enjoyable experience for all ages.

3. Giving Back to the Community

Many Turkey Trots are organized as charity events. Proceeds often go to local nonprofit organizations or food banks to support at risk community members during a time of year that is difficult for many. By participating in a Turkey Trot, your family can contribute to a worthy cause while enjoying a day of physical activity. It’s a meaningful way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of others.

Organizing a Family Turkey Trot

Even if there is not an official Turkey Trot that works for your schedule or location, it’s still fun to set one up for your family to get everyone moving and outside for bit on Thanksgiving morning. You can make it a leisurely walk or hike. You could also map out a route around your neighborhood or at a nearby park for your Turkey Trot. A finish line drawn in sidewalk chalk works just as well as a ribbon or timing pad! Make it extra fun with these DIY printable race bibs for the whole family!

Ready, Set, Gobble ?

A Family Turkey Trot is an excellent way to combine fitness, togetherness, and supporting your community during the Thanksgiving season. By participating in this fun and healthy tradition, you’ll create lasting memories and physical fitness while giving back to those in need. So, gather your loved ones, hit the pavement, and make this Thanksgiving memorable with a Family Turkey Trot!

If you are Holiday Planning Mode don’t forget to check out the post on creating a Calm (or at least a Calm-er) Christmas for your family.