Thanksgiving morning is typically filled with the chaotic hustle of meal preparations and getting everything organized. However, for Beth Thomas, a regular host for her family in the Boston area, much of the cooking is already done by this time. Instead of rushing in the kitchen, she ties her shoelaces and prepares to join her two sons for a 5K Turkey Trot run.
“It’s just a fun thing for us to do, knowing that later in the day, everyone is going to be lounging on the couch after eating way too much. It’s a highlight for us to start the day outdoors,” Beth shared. “Why not kick off the day doing something we really enjoy before indulging in a wonderful feast?”
Turkey Trots have developed into a cherished tradition for many families across the nation during the Thanksgiving season. There are countless races ranging from a mile to a full marathon. Run Signup, a popular platform for runners to register and raise funds for races, identifies Thanksgiving as “the biggest running day in the United States.” It notes a steady increase in participation; in 2023, the platform recorded an all-time high with almost one million participants nationwide.
While some individuals join for fitness, others participate to bond with family and friends, and many use the event as a platform to raise money for charitable causes. The Turkey Trots attract both beginners and experienced runners alike. Additionally, these races often have quirky names such as Gobble Wobbles, Drumstick Dashes, and Huffing for Stuffings. Although most events occur on Thanksgiving Day, some races are scheduled for the weekends before or after the holiday.
Beth and her sons have been partaking in these Thanksgiving races for several years, often joined by other family members or cheered on by relatives from the sidelines. The sense of community is a significant draw. Events centered around Thanksgiving fitness aren’t a new concept. Just ask the 14,000 participants who plan to take part in the Turkey Trot in Buffalo, New York, which marks its YMCA’s 129th annual race this year.
Mike Baggerman, the communications director at YMCA Buffalo Niagara, explained that the Buffalo event, which is older than the Boston Marathon, has become a staple of the local community. While some participants come with a competitive edge aiming for record times in the 8K race, most attendees are simply “regular folks looking for a fun Thanksgiving activity.”
This includes children and individuals using wheelchairs, making the event accessible for many, Baggerman emphasized. “It’s truly one of those memorable races,” he noted. “It’s a fun run.”
Another important aspect of these events is health and fitness. Many newcomers train in the weeks leading to Thanksgiving to prepare for a Turkey Trot. For those who are not regular runners, engaging in any form of activity, whether it’s simply walking or jogging, can be refreshing.
According to dietitian and fitness instructor Casey Young from Michigan, incorporating exercise into a season filled with tasks and stressors can be challenging. She believes that participating in these Thanksgiving races can not only help individuals meet their fitness goals but also improve their mood and mitigate stress levels. “The holiday season can be overwhelming, especially with travel and routine disruptions,” Young mentioned. “Finding opportunities to stay active is essential.”
Young added that exercising may also lead to more mindful eating choices later on. However, she cautions against the mindset that views exercise as a prelude to indulging in a lavish Thanksgiving meal or as a means to burn off calories afterward, as this could lead to an unhealthy relationship with food. Instead, she encourages focusing on the activity and its health advantages.
Furthermore, many who participate in Turkey Trots also embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving and giving back. Numerous events are organized as fundraisers, collaborating with local charities. The registration fees and participant donations frequently support initiatives such as food banks, shelters, and community programs.
Baggerman shared that the Buffalo Niagara YMCA’s Turkey Trot stands as the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, aiding efforts in providing affordable childcare, community health classes, and programs to combat food insecurity. “It’s more than just a fun 5-mile run on Thanksgiving Day; it’s a critical part of fulfilling the YMCA’s mission to support the western New York community,” he stated. “The unwavering commitment of Buffalo residents to participate year after year, selling out the race at 14,000 runners, is a remarkable achievement.”
