Yes, I know, I’ve been remiss in posting.  But for a good reason.  I’ve been working on a textbook for my training organization, the ISSA.  Trying to succintly explain how to safely and effectively program boot camps and group classes for a broad range of people takes up a lot more space than you might think.  We hope to release the course next summer.  ISSA is accredited through the Distance Education and Training Council, an organization recognized by the US Department of Education. 

Yes, but what about exercising and eating this week?!

Okay, well, don’t sweat it too much.  Thanksgiving is about enjoying time with family and the truth is, turkey is not bad for you.  Too much gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pie might be bad for you, but nothing you can’t work off with an active weekend and some yard work.  Get outside and sweat a little, even if it just means walking around the block, going for a bike ride, or hanging up the Christmas lights. 

Or maybe just some burpees . . . .

But, like most things, if you want to get through Thanksgiving without  stuffing yourself more than the turkey, or eating so little that you end up ordering a pizza later (yes I did), you need a plan.  At my mom’s house, our plan starts off with having the menu consist mainly of vegetables and limit the number of starches (because that is what dessert is for).  Sweet potatoes, green beans, roasted root vegetables, and salad are the main sides with turkey and gravy with apple and sausage stuffing for the main course.  Yes, that’s right, you can stuff the meat with more meat and vegetables or fruits.  It doesn’t have to be primarily bread.  And the fruits help to keep the turkey moist instead of soaking up all the moisture. 

Dessert-wise, well I don’t believe in low-calorie desserts that aren’t naturally low-calorie.  But, guess what is?  Pumpkin pie.  And depending on how much butter you use in your crust, apple pie.  If you want to sample everything, serve yourself only a bite or two.  Most likely, if its not in front of you and you are feeling satiated, you won’t get up to have more.  Well, unless you’re my dad. 

We’ll get back on schedule next week.  Remember, I’m teaching kettlebell conditioning classes at St. Francis on Tuesdays and Fridays at the community center.  We’ve got a pretty good crowd already, but would love to have more.  And, if you are interested in weightlifting, come on over to the Athletic Performance Center on Monday or Thursday evenings and train with the Raleigh Weightlifting Club.  Beginners are welcome and encouraged!