Be Thankful for Your Health this Thanksgiving

img_2114_thanksgivingFor many people, Thanksgiving is thought of as a time to enjoy your family as well as the turkey and all of your favorite side dishes – and don’t forget the pumpkin pie! It can be very easy to get carried away with holiday treats. When you add in out-of-town guests, and it can feel like it is impossible to maintain your normal healthy habits.

Just because food is a large part of the Thanksgiving Day tradition doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to an unhealthy holiday. (But you don’t have to deprive yourself either!) Here are some ways to find balance this Thanksgiving, and throughout the rest of the holidays:

 

  • Stick to your routine the best you can. If you usually run or walk a few miles most days, try to stick to it during the week of Thanksgiving. Get up early so you don’t feel like you’re missing out on family time.
  • Make fitness a family affair. Suggest something active to your friends and family members. Go for a walk after your Thanksgiving feast. Head out for a hike together over the weekend. Hit the mall for Black Friday shopping and make sure you get a lot of steps in. You can even take a break from watching football during halftime to play a game of touch football.
  • Think before you bite. It’s okay to enjoy the food and drinks the holiday season offers, but be mindful of portions. Instead of loading up your plate, take a little of everything. If you are still hungry, you can always go back for more. Try to limit how many alcoholic beverages you have as well.
  • Sign up for a holiday race. Atlanta Track Club’s Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon & 5K has a distance for everyone! In addition to the half marathon and 5K, there is the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia One Mile and 50m dash, so family members of all ages can earn their turkey. Registration is available at org.

With a little preparation and dedication, you can set yourself up for a healthy and happy Thanksgiving.

By Amy Begley, Atlanta Track Club Coach
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