Ever since I was a little boy, Thanksgiving has been my favorite holiday.  I have no gifts to buy.  I can hang out with favorite family members and catch up on everyone’s lives.  And of course, I love the food.
Probably the most enjoyable part of Thanksgiving is its signature—the meal. Consuming tremendous amounts of delicious food has become the centerpiece of “turkey day.” The food preparation often takes days and, within a short period of time is enjoyed by the ravenous crowd. Now, as someone who promotes healthy choices at my place of business, and, because I am getting older, I have become more conscious about the amount and types of food I eat at Thanksgiving dinner. 
Jud Dean, head trainer and nutritionist at Fusion Fitness Center, has calculated approximately how many calories are in a typical Thanksgiving meal.  Jud conservatively estimates the meal will be 1500 calories. His estimate does not include stuffing, butter, or GOING BACK FOR SECONDS.  The typical intake at Thanksgiving dinner represents the typical recommended American caloric intake per an entire day.
To burn off the Thanksgiving meal calories, you would need to:

• Use a Stepmill at level 6, for 125 minutes. 
• Ride a stationary bike at resistance 5, at least 75rpms, for 211 minutes. 
• Use a treadmill at speed 4 with no incline, for 300 minutes.

 
Obviously, I do not recommend this. Just enjoy the day and try not to go overboard. Just remember that Thanksgiving dinner is a once-a-year guilty pleasure and shouldn’t be used as an excuse to derail your carefully executed health and fitness program.
But wait! Thanksgiving is just the tip of the proverbial caloric iceberg. Once the turkey is picked clean, preparations begin for Christmas and Hanukkah – with cookies and numerous other temptations. Here are some helpful tips to keep you motivated and in shape during the season:

1. Exercise outdoors. The weather is nice and cool, the leaves are changing. Take a walk.  In fact, walk around the Reservoir; it is beautiful up there.
2. Find a workout partner. You can cheer each other on and provide encouragement to stay the course. 
3. Go for a walk before dessert. Your body takes about 20 minutes to realize that it is full.  By the time you finish your walk, you won’t be as hungry.
4. Drink plenty of water. Sometimes when you think you are hungry, you are actually thirsty.  Try to drink at least 64oz of water per day.  It will help curb some of your hunger pangs.
5. Do not skip meals. Eat smaller meals throughout the day to help with portion control and overeating.
6. Shop smart. When going to the mall, park the furthest away and walk. And carry your bags instead of using a shopping cart. When buying groceries, steer clear of the treats and spend time in the produce aisle.

Remember to stay active this holiday season.  You’ll have a jump start on the New Year and feel better as you start 2008.  I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and health-conscious holiday.

Stay Healthy
Nic