Join the Thanksgiving Tradition: Why Turkey Trots Are the Ultimate Holiday Kickoff
Thanksgiving Day is busy for many, but for Beth Thomas, preparations are mostly complete. She enjoys a 5K Turkey Trot run with her two sons. “It’s a fun tradition for us,” she said. “We love starting the day active before enjoying a big meal.”
Turkey Trots have become a popular Thanksgiving tradition. There are thousands of races, varying from 1 mile to a full marathon. According to Run Signup, Thanksgiving is the biggest running day in the U.S. In 2023, nearly 1 million people registered for Turkey Trots.
Participants join for different reasons: fitness, family, community, or charity. There are also creative names for these events, such as Gobble Wobbles and Drumstick Dashes, with most occurring on or near Thanksgiving Day.
Community is a big part of these races. The Turkey Trot in Buffalo, New York, has been running for 129 years, making it a local tradition. Mike Baggerman from the YMCA Buffalo Niagara states it brings together people, whether they are competitive runners or families just having fun.
How can families balance holiday indulgence with maintaining an active lifestyle through events like Turkey Trots?
Interview with Community Health Specialist Casey Young on the Impact of Turkey Trots During Thanksgiving
Q: Casey, can you tell us why Turkey Trots have become such a popular Thanksgiving tradition in the U.S.?
Casey Young: Absolutely. Turkey Trots have really tapped into the American spirit of community and family. They allow people to come together, whether to run competitively or just participate for fun. The fact that they take place on Thanksgiving—when many people are preparing for family gatherings—adds a unique twist. It’s a way to kick off the day with activity, helping to balance out the indulgence of a big holiday meal.
Q: What do you think are some of the psychological benefits of participating in these races?
Casey Young: Engaging in physical activity like running or walking can significantly uplift one’s mood, especially during the stressful holiday season. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. For many, the routine of training for a race can also create a sense of purpose and provide a healthy outlet for holiday stress.
Q: Do you think people’s motivations for participating in Turkey Trots vary, and if so, how?
Casey Young: Definitely. While some are focused on fitness and training, others might be there for family bonding or charity support. Many participants embrace the social aspect, as races often bring together friends, family, and community members. The varying names and formats—from Gobble Wobbles to Drumstick Dashes—also show just how diverse these events have become, catering to a wide range of interests and goals.
Q: How does exercise fit into the overall holiday experience from a nutritionist’s viewpoint?
Casey Young: It’s important to focus on the positives of being active rather than solely on food consumption. Exercise can help stabilize emotions and reduce stress levels, making it easier to enjoy holiday meals without the added anxiety. Encouraging people to view their Turkey Trot as part of a balanced holiday experience—incorporating both activity and indulgence—can promote a healthier mindset.
Q: Lastly, can you touch upon the fundraising aspect of Turkey Trots?
Casey Young: Many Turkey Trots serve a dual purpose: they promote health and fitness while also raising funds for local causes. The Buffalo YMCA’s Turkey Trot is a great example—its fundraising efforts support vital community programs, including childcare and food security initiatives. The success these events see shows a commitment to giving back, making them not only a fun tradition but also a meaningful one.
Many runners train for these events. Even casual participants find that walking or jogging can uplift their mood amid the holiday stress. Dietician Casey Young emphasizes the benefits of exercise during a busy time, noting it can help stabilize emotions and reduce stress. She encourages participants to focus on the positive aspects of physical activity rather than just the food they might consume afterward.
Many Turkey Trots serve as fundraisers. Registration fees often support local causes like food banks and community programs. The Buffalo YMCA’s Turkey Trot is its largest fundraiser, assisting in childcare, health programs, and food security efforts. Baggerman notes the event’s success highlights the community’s dedication to giving back.