I love a good workout on Thanksgiving morning. I fully admit, it makes me feel less guilty when the pies come out of the kitchen, or when I reach for seconds of mashed potatoes and gravy. It also helps me stay in my normal workout routine and show my kids exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle. Since I had my first baby over four years ago, we’ve made it a family tradition to get moving each Thanksgiving before the big meal. Here are a few ideas to burn some calories on Turkey Day:
- Find a Turkey Trot. There are actually quite a few Thanksgiving Day races all over the Valley. I’ve done the Turkey Trot in Anthem before, which is a gorgeous route around Anthem Community Park. There are also races in downtown Phoenix, Mesa, Peoria, and Fountain Hills. I’m planning to do the 5K in Fountain Hills this year because Fountain Hills also hosts Arizona’s only Thanksgiving Day parade immediately following the race. Most Turkey Trots are stroller-friendly and suitable for runners or walkers of all skill levels. Bonus: sign your kiddos up for 1K or fun run after the adult race!
- Fit4Mom/ Stroller Strides. Last year, my entire family (including my kids and my hubby) attended the Stroller Strides Thanksgiving morning class, which is held at 8:30 am at Desert Horizon park. The kiddos stay in the stroller while mom and dad get a great workout at various stations around the park. Dads are free on Thanksgiving, and if you aren’t already a member, your first class is free.
- Barre3. Get shaking on Thanksgiving Day at your local Barre3 studio. Several of our SMB contributors are also instructors locally, so Barre3 has always been a crowd favorite. The classes are packed and child care is available.
- RPM Spin. If you really want to get your heart pumping, head to a class at RPM Spin. The studio is conveniently located in Greyhawk and open 365 days a year, including Thanksgiving Day. A class is scheduled on Thanksgiving at 9:15 am, but additional classes may be added if the bikes fill up. Check out SMB’s review of RPM here.
- Go for a hike. We are lucky to live in sunny Arizona, surrounded by mountain preserves with marked hiking trails. I’ve done a few Thanksgiving morning hikes over the years and the mountains are always packed with families. Best part about hiking is it is FREE! Grab your sneakers and find a nearby trail. Click here to check out our favorite kid-friendly hikes in Scottsdale.
Do you have a favorite workout activity going on this Thanksgiving morning? Share it below in the comments!