November 19, 2023

Thanksgiving Workout: Lagree Fitness and Healthy Feasting

By Mirjana Dobric

As the holiday season unfolds, Thanksgiving emerges as a beacon of joy, gratitude, and, of course, mouthwatering feasts. As we eagerly anticipate the festivities, it's only natural to revel in the excitement of shared meals and cherished traditions.

Yet, amidst the joyous chaos, there lies the ever-present consideration of balance – a harmony between indulgence and well-being. Let’s see how Lagree fitness can spice up your Thanksgiving workout and help you stay fit during the festivities. So, let's unravel the secrets of a holiday season that's not just delightful but also healthily invigorating!

Pre-Thanksgiving Lagree Plan

Before indulging in the Thanksgiving feast, it's wise to prepare your body with a thoughtful workout plan. Lagree fitness, a low-impact but high-intensity workout, combines elements of Pilates, cardio, and strength training. Its cornerstone is the Megaformer, a versatile machine that challenges multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

Turkey Burn Workout

The goal with a pre-Thanksgiving workout plan is not punishment but rather creating a metabolic boost, ensuring your body is primed to handle the festive indulgence. Lagree is a great "turkey burn" workout since it’s a high-intensity routine. It engages your lower body with lunges on the Megaformer, activating the quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Moreover, core-strengthening exercises, like pike and oblique twists done on the Megaformer, further contribute to calorie burning and overall conditioning.

Thanksgiving Fitness Routine

You can further expand your routine with additional Lagree exercises, such as plank-to-pike, spider lunges, and bear squats. These compound movements contribute to calorie burning and enhance overall strength and flexibility. The Lagree fitness method emphasizes slow, controlled movements, maximizing time under tension for each muscle group. This holistic approach ensures you're physically prepared for the upcoming festivities.

Mindful Holiday Feasting: Find the Balance

Thanksgiving is synonymous with a grand feast, and mindful eating can make all the difference. Let's delve deeper into strategies for balanced holiday feasting.

Portion Control

We recommend opting for smaller portions to savor the variety of dishes without overindulging. Mindful portion control allows you to enjoy the flavors without the discomfort of feeling overly full. Consider using smaller plates to encourage moderation. By starting with smaller portions, you can always go back for more if needed, ensuring you savor every bite.

Healthy Choices

Make conscious choices by including a balance of proteins, vegetables, and whole grains on your plate. This adds nutritional value and contributes to a satisfying dining experience. Experiment with incorporating seasonal vegetables and lean protein sources. Choose baked or grilled options over fried, and opt for whole-grain sides for added fiber and nutrients. The goal is to create a colorful, diverse plate that nourishes your body.

Savoring the Flavors

Eating slowly and savoring each bite enhances the overall enjoyment of the meal. This approach contributes to the dining experience and gives your body time to recognize fullness, preventing overeating. We also encourage you to engage in conversation between bites, allowing your body to signal when satisfied. Take a moment to appreciate the flavors, textures, and aromas of each dish. By savoring the experience, you not only enjoy the food but also cultivate a sense of gratitude for the culinary delights of the season.

Lagree Workouts After Thanksgiving

The desire to burn off those extra post-feast calories is common, and Lagree workouts provide an effective remedy. While specific exercises aid in recovery, the emphasis lies on the overall effectiveness of Lagree fitness.

Lagree workouts focus on full-body movements. The Megaformer's resistance offers a challenging yet effective way to burn calories and promote muscle recovery. Incorporate Megaformer exercises like the French Twist for obliques, the Super Lunge for lower body engagement, and the Mermaid Stretch for flexibility. Remember, the goal is not punishment but rather engaging in activities that make you feel both mentally and physically rejuvenated.

Staying Healthy During the Holidays

As the holiday season continues beyond Thanksgiving, maintaining a healthy balance is crucial. 

Balancing Indulgence With Workouts

Amid holiday festivities, finding joy in movement is key. Whether it's a brisk winter walk, a relaxing yoga session, or any physical activity that brings happiness, incorporating movement into your routine naturally complements the indulgences of the season. Rather than seeing it as a chore, view it as a way to enhance your overall well-being and add to the joy of the holidays.

Mindful Eating Beyond Thanksgiving

Be conscious of your food choices throughout the holiday season and extend the principles of mindful eating beyond the Thanksgiving feast. Just like at Thanksgiving, maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients. Be sure to stay hydrated, incorporate fruits and vegetables, and choose whole, unprocessed foods when possible. These habits contribute to sustained energy levels and overall well-being.

Variety in Physical Activities

Furthermore, diversify your fitness routine to keep it engaging and sustainable. While Lagree provides an excellent foundation, consider complementing it with a mix of activities such as yoga or cycling. This variety targets different muscle groups, keeps the mind stimulated, and prevents workout monotony.

Prioritize Sleep

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays, getting proper sleep is essential. Quality sleep is crucial for physical recovery, immune function, and mental well-being. Make sure to establish a consistent sleep routine, create a relaxing bedtime environment, and prioritize sufficient rest. A well-rested body is better equipped to handle the demands of both festive celebrations and regular daily activities.

Manage Stress

As we embrace the holiday season, it's important to acknowledge that alongside the festivities, there can be potential stressors that accompany this time of year. Balancing family gatherings, gift shopping, and various commitments may sometimes feel overwhelming. However, it's equally vital to recognize that stress management plays a key role in ensuring a joyful and healthful holiday experience.

Effectively managing stress during the holiday season involves implementing various strategies that promote both mental and physical well-being. These strategies include mindfulness practices, such as daily meditation and deep-breathing exercises, which offer a grounding force amidst the hustle.

Furthermore, incorporating regular physical activity, whether through a brisk walk or engaging in a Lagree workout, releases endorphins, acting as natural stress relievers. By acknowledging potential stressors and providing practical tools, you can approach the holidays with a greater sense of ease, resilience, and joy.

Embrace the Season

Don’t forget that a positive mindset contributes significantly to overall well-being. Beyond the delicious feasts and festive decorations, this season is a celebration of joy and gratitude. It's an invitation to appreciate the warmth of shared moments, the comfort of familiar traditions, and the love that surrounds us. Amidst the busyness, savor the simple pleasures, from the aroma of holiday meals to the laughter that echoes in your homes. Thanksgiving is not just a day but a season to revel in the spirit of gratitude and togetherness, creating a tapestry of memories that linger long after the last slice of pie has been enjoyed.

The Bottom Line

As we wrap up our journey through the landscape of Thanksgiving wellness, let's remember that this season is more than just a checklist of workouts and mindful feasting. It's about creating a harmonious blend of joy, health, and gratitude. So, as you venture into the holiday festivities, let the spirit of Thanksgiving guide you. Whether indulging in a Lagree fitness routine, savoring a mindful feast, or simply relishing the company of loved ones, embrace the season wholeheartedly. Embrace the joy of the season while keeping your health and fitness goals in mind, and see you in our studio!