Thanksgiving is a busy time for social gatherings and big meals around the table with friends and family. This typically means the holiday revolves around (delicious!) food and not much activity. There are some fun ways to make your Thanksgiving a little more active, and here are a few of my favorite family-friendly activities that will keep you all off the sofa.

Get your game on

Thanksgiving TV is a big thing for families, congregating around the TV to watch the football game or the Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you must watch that big game on TV, get a game going of your own in the yard first. Gather the family and shoot some hoops, toss the football, or throw the frisbee. Anything you choose will be fun and get the blood pumping - so it’s a win-win!

Take part in a turkey trot

Take a look on your community page for your city, and you’re bound to see a turkey trot. These are free running and walking events held during the Thanksgiving weekend. Gather the whole family for a day full of active fun. If you live in a more remote setting, you can host your own turkey trot. Why not involve your neighbors and your community by organizing one yourself?

Family walk time

Before dessert gets served, get everyone up to go for a walk. A lot of people put up Christmas lights during Thanksgiving weekend, and as the sun goes down, you might just be in for a beautiful treat as you walk around with your family. You could also have everyone find their favorite colorful, fallen leaf to take home and make a craft with. Let that be your new tradition. Then head back and enjoy your slice of pie!

Once you get back from any of these activities, you'll feel great about your active day with loved ones.