Burn Off Extra Thanksgiving Calories

November 2009

During the holiday season, moderation is key. But, every once in awhile, you might be tempted to splurge. Check out these festive ways to help you get moving and motivated through the Turkey Day festivities.

1. Splurge: Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Solution: Clean Up Your Calories
Taking an extra helping of this Thanksgiving staple? Burn off some extra calories cleaning up after guests. Doing the dishes, vacuuming up the crumbs, and emptying the dishwasher are a little more appealing when you think about them as exercise. Feeling extra motivated? Scrub off those pots and pans, and shine up all of the stemware. An added bonus: You'll have a clean kitchen and an organized mind.

2. Splurge: Cranberry Dressing
Solution: Walk Away from the Buffet
A scoop or two of that tasty cranberry dressing can add on the calories. Help balance it out by going for a walk after dinner. Venture out for a nice long walk to help burn off those tasty side dishes. Not to mention, the fresh air may help you sleep (in case the turkey leftovers weren't already doing the job).

3. Splurge: Stuffing
Solution: Stuff In the Fun
Load up on that stuffing, and you'll be stuffing yourself into your pants in no time. But, don't worry. You can burn off extra calories with some family fun. Try a table tennis tournament, a scavenger hunt around the neighborhood, or a game of "H-O-R-S-E" in the driveway. An added bonus: You burn off extra calories every time you laugh. Now, that's something to smile about.

4. Splurge: Pecan Pie
Solution: Put a New Spin on Dessert
This classic dessert is deliciously sinful (and that's before you add a scoop of ice cream). So, you're going to have to work a little harder to burn it all off. Luckily for you, the day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, and if there were ever a day to burn calories shopping, that's it. If you're pushing a stroller, carrying heavy bags, or power walking through the crowds, you'll do even better. So get out there, and exercise your inner shopaholic.

try an at-home workout with things you already own >

As always, be sure to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.

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