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Quick Cardio Workout To Do Before Thanksgiving Dinner

Written by Megan Poupore | Nov 25, 2024

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and festivities, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your fitness routine! If you’re not keen on participating in a turkey trot or are busy keeping your family entertained, we have the perfect solution for you.

This Thanksgiving, why not squeeze in a quick and effective cardio circuit workout right from the comfort of your home?

Designed by Megan Poupore, a certified personal trainer at O2 Fitness—James Island, this circuit will help you torch calories, boost your energy levels, and get your endorphins flowing so you can enjoy every minute of this delicious holiday.

Whether you have just 20 minutes or a full hour to spare, this workout is adaptable for all fitness levels and requires minimal equipment. So put on your shoes, and let's get moving before the biggest (and most delicious) meal of the year!

 

At Home Turkey Burner Circuit 

A pyramid-style workout involves increasing and then decreasing the intensity or repetitions of exercises in a structured sequence, creating a pyramid shape that challenges your endurance and strength. Repeat this circuit 2-3 times. Add weights and/or bands for an additional challenge!

10 Jumping Lunges 

20 Laying Superman Lat Pulls

How To: lay face down with your biceps by ears, lift your upper body off the ground, pull your elbows down toward your ribs, and then return to the starting position. 

30 Side Plank Hip Raise Clamshells - Left Side

40 Dead Bugs

50 High Knees 

40 Dead Bugs 

30 Side Plank Hip Raise Clamshell - Right Side 

20 Laying Superman Lat Pulls 

10 Jumping Lunges 

 

Optional Finisher

You're almost done! Finish strong with this 90-second progressive burner! 

30 Seconds of Mountain Climbers

30 Seconds of Pendulum Mountain Climbers

How To: Start to pivot left and right while climbing

30 Seconds of Froggers

To do the "Froggers" exercise, start in a high plank position, jump your feet to the outside of your hands in a squat, then jump back to the plank position, repeating quickly with core engagement and soft landings.

 

Congrats, You're Done!

Give your body the love it deserves this Thanksgiving with this At Home Turkey Burner Circuit. Remember to kick things off with a good warm-up, ease out with a cool-down session, and refuel with protein-packed snacks post-workout to balance festive indulgence and self-care.

Now that you've crushed your workout - take time to appreciate what your body can do, enjoy the feeling of moving, and soak up the love from your family, friends, and favorite people this holiday season!