Happy Active Thanksgiving! 5 ways to stay active on Thanksgiving break

Finally, a break from classes! It’s exactly what you need to power through the end of the semester. There will be time with loved ones, a lot of yummy food, and time to catch up on sleep. The one thing you do not want to do is wind up feeling worn out because you forgot to move all break. Below are five ways to stay active on Thanksgiving break.

Go apple or pumpkin picking

There are so many places in and around Georgia to get out and enjoy this time of year. Apple and pumpkin picking are inexpensive ways to get your family and friends out and moving to enjoy a fun fall day. Once you’re ready to warm up back inside, put your fresh produce to work in a delicious seasonal recipe like slow cooker applesauce, pumpkin apple soup, or simple roasted pumpkin seeds.

Serve your community

The holidays are a special time for many people, but are also a time of increased need for individuals and families in the community who may be food insecure. Volunteering at a local soup kitchen or helping sort food at a food bank will keep you moving while doing something good for others at the same time. Visit the website for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia to view their directory of community providers. If you’re out of town or can’t make volunteering work with your schedule, consider scheduling something for after the holidays or donating to the food bank in the form of nonperishable food or money.

Play a friendly game of flag football

Thanksgiving falls perfectly into the heat of football season, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit on the couch and just watch. Get outside and play a game with family and friends.

Participate in a local turkey trot

For all you runners, joggers, walkers, and fitness lovers there are many races on and around Thanksgiving Day for you to participate in and work up a Thanksgiving appetite. The Give Thanks 8k in Athens is a great option for those staying local. You can find a list full of races around Georgia here. If running or walking isn’t an option this year, you can support a cause by volunteering at the race or cheering for runners.

Help out around the house

This could mean cleaning inside, raking the leaves, or cleaning out the gutters. Cleaning isn’t always the most fun thing to do, but you feel good after it is done whether you are helping your parents, an older relative, or getting your own space in shape so you can finish the semester focused on finals.

Have a great break and a happy, active Thanksgiving!

Written by: Caroline Hubbard, dietetics practicum student at UHC Health Promotion