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How Thanksgiving Became the Biggest Day of the Year for Running

Umito November 24, 2024

Turkey trots are a common way for new and experienced runners to burn a few calories before sitting down for Thanksgiving dinner. And these events are becoming even more popular.

According to RunSignup, more than 920,000 Americans participated in a turkey trot last Thanksgiving in one of more than 833 races across the United States. The number of people signing up for a turkey trot through Run Signup has nearly tripled in the last seven years.

The actual number of participants is actually higher because some races use different registration platforms.

While some turkey trots hosted a few dozen runners, RunSignup noted that there were 249 races on Thanksgiving last year that had at least 1,000 participants.

And these races are everywhere. All 50 states held at least one Thanksgiving race, with Pennsylvania leading the way with 56 separate events.

The overwhelming majority of these events (84.4%) featured a 5km (3.11 mile) option. A smaller number of Thanksgiving Day races included distances of a mile, 10K and even a half marathon.

These runs aren’t just good for fitness; they can help raise a lot of money. RunSignup said more than $1.99 million has been raised for various charities from the hundreds of Turkey Trot registrations it has managed in 2023.

To find a race near you, Click here.

Expert Tips for Running a Turkey Trot

With so many runners at the start line, these races can be a good introduction to running for inexperienced athletes. If you’re signed up for a race, here are some tips from an exercise physiologist Katie Lawton of the Cleveland Clinic on how to successfully do a turkey trot:

Choose a manageable running distance. Turkey trots can range from a mile to a half-marathon distance. Lawton said a 5K is usually a good distance for beginners.

Practice a little. Even though the Turkey Trot is in a few days, it might not be a bad idea to get out and run a few miles before the race.

Form a group. Lawton recommends inviting friends and family to join in the fun.

Wear comfortable sports shoes. Although Lawton says any athletic shoe will do for a single 5K, if you plan to continue your training, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to get shoes designed for walking and running. Many running stores offer devices that help athletes find the right shoe and fit.

Dress for the weather. Take a layered approach to your outfit, Lawton said. If it’s cold, you’ll usually start warming up after the race starts. You can remove outer layers during your run.

Hydrate. The Cleveland Clinic said drinking water is especially important if you’re sweating or drank alcohol the night before.

The Cleveland Clinic also suggests runners take up the turkey trot. They also note that slower riders should start at the back of the pack, allowing faster riders to progress more easily.

After the run, they say to keep moving and eat a light snack, like a banana or granola bar.