Do you like the tradition of running a race on Thanksgiving Day? Before putting the turkey in the oven, many people like to put on their running shoes and participate in a 5K or half-marathon race with a large group. If you plan on running on Thanksgiving, make sure you are proactive with your turkey trot preparation.
Yes, Thanksgiving is a day to celebrate and enjoy time with loved ones. But there are also many excuses to spend time outside, like a race, a game of flag football or just taking a walk to help the turkey digest.
Popularity of the Turkey Trot
Although races take place year-round, recreational racers often enjoy these events on holidays such as the 4th of Julye and Thanksgiving Day. An estimated 1 million people participate in the “Turkey Trot” races on Thanksgiving morning, making it one of the most popular days to run a race each year.
Even though Thanksgiving is popular among runners, most of these people are not hardcore. In fact, it might be the only race they compete in all year. If you don’t run often, it’s essential to make time for turkey trot preparation so your body is ready to run on race day.
Tips for successful turkey trotter preparation
Whether you’re getting ready for a Thanksgiving Day race or planning to run another race, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your turkey trot. Follow these tips:
- Choose your distance: The most common length for a turkey trot is 5 kilometers, but there are often options for a 10 kilometer or half marathon if you prefer. If you don’t run often, start small. You can always choose a bigger race if you’ve had more time to train. Be smart in choosing a reasonable distance to avoid injury.
- Invest in good shoes: Good shoes make a difference when you walk longer distances. If it’s a 5k, any type of athletic shoe is fine. But the longer distances require special running shoes designed for these activities. Buy your shoes in advance and make sure you break them in in the weeks before the race.
- Wear layers: There’s usually a chill in the air on Thanksgiving morning, especially if you start the race before the sun rises. But you warm up as soon as you start moving. So be strategic with your clothing by wearing layers to keep you warm before the race, and items that can be easily removed if you get too hot while running.
- Train before the race: If you haven’t run in a long time, don’t expect to be able to show up at the race and run from start to finish. Your body needs time to prepare, so exercise before the race is crucial. Walking, jogging and running several times a week for a few weeks before the race can help train muscles and build the endurance you need.
- Invite friends: The race will be much more fun if you have friends or family to share the experience with. Invite other people to participate. Not only will you have partners to run the race with, but you can also train together as part of the group preparation for the turkey trot.
- Fuel your body: Eat a hearty meal the night before your race so that you have plenty of energy on race day. It may also be helpful to eat a light breakfast a few hours before the race. If necessary, bring snacks to keep you going. Often races provide snacks along the race path and at the finish line.
- Hydration and electrolytes: Not only should you drink enough water before, during and after the race. But also make sure you support your body with good electrolytes. Supplements can be added to your water if necessary. Or opt for sports drinks such as Gatorade.
Race day: start line, pace and completion
The goal is to cross the finish line. But there are a few details that affect how comfortable and fast you are during the race. Many people arrive at the starting line with a lot of energy and motivation, but quickly slow down once the race starts.
Make sure you avoid burnout early in the race. Even if you have a lot of energy when you start, don’t run so fast in the beginning that you have trouble keeping it up at the end. If you plan to run a bit during the race, the usual etiquette is for the slower races to stay at the back of the crowd at the starting line, allowing the faster racers to get ahead of the slower-moving competitors.
What are your goals for the race?
Choose the right friends to run with so you can set your pace. If you’ve been training, you may have a specific mileage average that you’re aiming for. Or, if you plan to run the race and enjoy the experience with your loved ones, you can simply focus on continuous movement – one foot in front of the other.
Think about your goals because the outcome you want will determine your experience. If you just want to have fun, you don’t have to worry about the clock or beating a personal record. If you’re a regular runner and want to push your limits, you may have a specific goal in mind that you want to achieve, such as how much time it will take to complete the race.
Maintain momentum after the race
Preparing to trot in Turkey is a great way to get moving. Having a goal, such as running a race, is often the motivation people need to stay consistent with an exercise plan. Even after the race is over, don’t let yourself lose momentum! Plan another race or find another motivation to continue a consistent training routine.
Whether you’re preparing for a race or continuing your workout routine after a race, make sure you find a gym where you can train. Fitness Nation provides the fun and supportive environment you are looking for.