11 Fitness: Thanksgiving workout tips from Teddy Savage

11 Fitness: Thanksgiving Workout Tips from Teddy Savage It's that time of year again, when the aroma of delicious food fills the air and families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving. While this holiday is all about indulging in your favorite dishes, it's also important to think about staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. That's why we've enlisted the help of Teddy Savage, the National Lead Trainer with Planet Fitness, to provide us with some helpful Thanksgiving workout tips. 1. Start Your Day with a Workout Before you even think about digging into that Thanksgiving feast, make sure to get your sweat on. Savage suggests starting your day with a workout to rev up your metabolism and get your body ready for the day ahead. Whether it's a quick jog, a yoga session, or some weight lifting, getting your heart rate up will set the tone for a healthy day. 2. Get the Family Involved Thanksgiving is all about spending time with loved ones, so why not incorporate fitness into your family traditions? Savage recommends involving everyone in a fun outdoor activity. Whether it's a game of touch football, a hike in the woods, or a friendly competition, getting the whole family moving is a great way to bond and burn off some extra calories. 3. Take a Post-Meal Stroll After indulging in a big meal, it's natural to feel a bit sluggish. Instead of heading straight to the couch for a nap, Savage suggests taking a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Not only will this help aid digestion, but it will also give you a chance to enjoy some fresh air and stretch your legs. Plus, it's a great opportunity to catch up with family members and continue the conversation. 4. Incorporate HIIT into Your Routine If you're short on time and can't commit to a full workout, Savage recommends incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your routine. These quick bursts of intense exercise followed by short recovery periods can be done in as little as 20 minutes and can be just as effective as longer, steady-state cardio sessions. Try doing a series of bodyweight exercises like burpees, mountain climbers, and squat jumps to get your heart rate up and burn off those Thanksgiving calories. 5. Practice Mindful Eating While it's tempting to pile your plate high with all of your favorite Thanksgiving foods, Savage suggests practicing mindful eating. Take the time to savor each bite, chew slowly, and pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. By being present and mindful during your meal, you'll be more likely to enjoy your food and stop eating when you're satisfied, rather than overeating and feeling regretful later. 6. Be Mindful of Portion Sizes In addition to practicing mindful eating, Savage advises being mindful of portion sizes. Instead of going back for seconds or piling your plate high, try to stick to smaller portions. This will allow you to indulge in your favorite dishes without overdoing it. If you're still hungry after your initial serving, opt for extra helpings of vegetables or salad to fill up on nutrient-dense foods. 7. Stay Hydrated Amidst all the hustle and bustle of Thanksgiving, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. However, Savage emphasizes the importance of drinking enough water throughout the day. Not only will this help keep you feeling full and satisfied, but it will also aid in digestion and help prevent overeating. Keep a water bottle handy and aim to drink at least 8 cups of water throughout the day. 8. Don't Beat Yourself Up Lastly, Savage advises not beating yourself up if you indulge in a little too much pumpkin pie or stuffing. It's important to remember that Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy and savor the moment. Instead of dwelling on any indulgences, focus on the memories made with family and friends. Remember that one day of indulgence won't derail your entire fitness journey, so stay positive and get back on track with your regular routine the following day. In conclusion, while Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy good food and good company, it's also important to prioritize your health and fitness. By incorporating these Thanksgiving workout tips from Teddy Savage into your holiday festivities, you can indulge without feeling guilty and maintain a balanced lifestyle. So lace up your sneakers, gather your loved ones, and get ready to make this Thanksgiving a healthy and memorable one.