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Thanksgiving is one of our favorite times of year — a chance to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and express gratitude for the good things in life. 

Whether you’re looking to make your meal a little lighter or keep your body feeling energized all weekend long, here are some ideas to help you enjoy a healthy, happy Thanksgiving in Denver.

Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes

A few simple swaps and mindful choices can make your Thanksgiving meal nourishing and delicious:

Roasted Root Veggie Medley with Fresh Herbs

Toss a mix of colorful root vegetables — like carrots, beets, parsnips, and sweet potatoes — with olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Roast at 425 degrees until tender and finish with sea salt and pepper. Inspired by: https://www.loveandlemons.com/roasted-root-vegetables/

Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Olive Oil

Skip the heavy cream and butter for this light, flavorful alternative. Steam cauliflower and blend it with roasted garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt. It’s surprisingly satisfying and super light. Inspired by: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/230816/garlic-mashed-cauliflower/

Cranberry-Orange Sauce

Fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a drizzle of honey create a bright, tangy twist on the classic sauce — no refined sugar needed. Inspired by: https://www.onelovelylife.com/orange-honey-cranberry-sauce/

Pumpkin Chia Pudding

Blend pumpkin puree with almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, almond butter, and chia seeds. Let it sit overnight or for at least 3 hours for a fiber-filled, dessert-worthy treat that tastes like pie in a jar. Inspired by: https://www.eatingbirdfood.com/coconut-pumpkin-chia-pudding/

Get Moving: Fun Outdoor Activities Around Denver

A little movement after your Thanksgiving meal helps digestion, lifts your energy, and keeps your body feeling its best. Luckily, Denver offers endless ways to stay active — whether you’re an avid hiker or just want to take a stroll with family.

Take a Walk or Easy Hike

Enjoy the crisp fall air and golden trees on a neighborhood walk, along the South Platte River Trail, or at scenic city spots like Washington Park. For something a bit more adventurous, head to Red Rocks for a short, stunning loop that delivers mountain views without too much elevation gain.

Go Ice Skating

If you’re looking for a festive way to get moving this holiday, lace up your ice skates and hit one of Denver’s many ice rinks. Several outdoor rinks are typically open on Thanksgiving day and run through the winter months, offering a fun way to enjoy the crisp winter air. 

Try a Thanksgiving Morning Turkey Trot

Start your holiday with a little cardio and community spirit. Denver’s annual Turkey Trot welcomes all ages and fitness levels for a four-mile run or walk through Washington Park — a heartwarming way to give back and get moving before the big meal.

Gamify Turkey Day

Turn your Thanksgiving into an active, laughter-filled day with small movement challenges everyone can enjoy.

During the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, do five jumping jacks each time you see an animal balloon. Watching football? Make the commercial breaks your cue to move — stretch, squat, or plank your way through the ads. You can even create a neighborhood scavenger hunt after dinner: find a pinecone, a red leaf, or a house with pumpkins still on the porch.

Movement doesn’t have to be formal — just playful, shared, and joyful.

Keep Pilates Principles in Mind

As you move through the holiday weekend, remember what Pilates teaches us:

• Balance – between movement and rest.
• Control – in how you eat, move, and recover.
• Breath – to stay grounded and mindful in the moment.

Even five or ten minutes of gentle mat work or stretching each day can help you feel centered and strong through the busy season.

A Note of Gratitude

At Taylor Pilates and Fitness, we’re grateful for this incredible community that moves, grows, and supports one another year after year. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Taylor Pilates and Fitness — move well, feel well, and celebrate well.