Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving is going to look very different for most people this year, but if there is one thing that will likely stay the same, it will be eating plenty of food!

I know I’m not alone when it comes to loosening up the belt buckle and even on occasion undoing a button after a hefty Thanksgiving meal. I also know that the big meals and sweets and treats don’t stop on Thanksgiving as we are just beginning the holiday season. 

I know that my typical Thanksgiving Day consists of eating, sitting, watching football, and eating a little bit more. But, since this year is going to be different, you might as well work to make the routine a little different also. And by different, I mean by trying to add in a little more movement throughout Thanksgiving Day, as well as into your everyday routine. I know it tends to be cold in North Dakota during Thanksgiving, but that doesn’t have to stop you from getting up and being active. 

A great way to start your day on Thanksgiving is to do a 5K Turkey Trot. It gets your day started off with a nice walk or run outside. This also allows you to safely distance and still enjoy some company. If you don’t feel like starting your day out that way, there is nothing stopping you from doing a Turkey Trot after your dinner. 

If a Turkey Trot isn’t your thing, here are some other ways to incorporate movement into your Thanksgiving Day. 

• Get up from the couch/chair, walk around the house, go up and down the stairs a couple of times
• Do the dishes and clean up the food (keeps you on your feet)
• Play hide and seek or other games with the kids
• 10 minutes of bodyweight exercises
  • Squats, lunges, push-ups, planks
• Yoga 
• Play a board game and incorporate a physical challenge if you lose, draw a certain card, or roll a certain number

Just remember, it doesn’t have to be a lot. But incorporating small amounts of movement throughout the day will make you feel much better and help your body metabolize all that delicious food. 

Have fun with it and have a great Thanksgiving!