As the holiday season approaches, many people look forward to Thanksgiving meals, festive gatherings, and, for the active among us, the classic Thanksgiving Turkey Trot! Turkey Trots are not just a great way to start Thanksgiving Day with a burst of energy—they’re also an excellent way to enjoy time with family and set a positive tone for the season. Here’s why now is the perfect time to sign up for a Turkey Trot and how to train so you’re ready to enjoy every step of the race.
1. Sign Up Early—And Recruit a Family Member!
Turkey Trot races are hugely popular and usually fill up fast, so now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Signing up for a race a few weeks in advance also gives you plenty of time to start training. Turkey Trots are often family-friendly events, so why not recruit a family member or friend to join you? It’s a wonderful way to bond, support each other, and create new holiday memories. We have a list of some great local Turkey Trot races that you can check out and sign up for below!
West Linn Turkey Trot Trail Race
2. Kickstart Your Holiday Fitness Goals with Nutrition in Mind
Training for a Turkey Trot is a perfect excuse to be mindful of nutrition as the holiday season kicks in. Focusing on balanced meals that include lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables will fuel your runs and help you feel your best on race day. Starting this habit now can make it easier to stay on track as the more indulgent holiday meals approach. Consider prepping a few “pre-race” snacks like oatmeal with berries, a smoothie, or a handful of nuts—great, balanced choices that can become part of your Turkey Trot routine!
3. Gift Giving: Get Ready to “Shoe Shop” for the Holidays
Turkey Trots are a great excuse to review your running gear! This might be the perfect time to run your last few miles on your current pair of shoes and look for a new pair as a holiday gift (or a reward to yourself!). And if you’re building out your wish list, remember the essentials: fresh socks, gloves for those chilly morning runs, and maybe a good running hat. Having the right gear can make training and race day more comfortable and fun!
4. Bring Your Training Indoors With a Personal Trainer
The days are getting shorter and colder, which can make training outside a bit challenging. If you prefer warmer and more consistent training conditions, consider working with one of our Portlnad personal trainers at Lloyd Athletic Club for the next few months. Whether you’re brand new to running or just want to stay consistent indoors, our Portland Personal trainers can help create a plan that keeps you on track while giving you the flexibility to work around your schedule and weather conditions. Plus, indoor training builds a solid base of strength, balance, and endurance—key for runners of all levels.
5. Enjoy the Journey to the Finish Line!
As you train, remember that a Turkey Trot isn’t about setting records; it’s about having fun, getting active, and celebrating community. Make your training journey enjoyable by setting small goals along the way, like improving your stamina or enjoying the crisp fall air. You’ll be able to look forward to the joy of crossing the finish line on race day, knowing you’ve put in the effort and made this part of the holiday season your own.
By preparing for a Turkey Trot, you’re not only setting yourself up for an energetic start to Thanksgiving Day but also embracing a tradition that brings people together in the spirit of health and togetherness. Let’s lace up, set our goals, and make this Turkey Trot season a memorable start to the holidays!