Get Turkey Trot Ready in Just 3 Weeks

November 2025

article and photo by Maria Weidich

Are you thinking of signing up for Billings’ Run! Turkey Run! 5K on Thanksgiving Day this year? Whether you’re aiming to jog the whole way or just make it across the finish line with a smile (and an appetite for pie), this plan will have you trot-ready in just three weeks.

WEEK 1:

SHAKE OUT THE FEATHERS

Goal: Build a routine and get moving.

Day 1: Walk briskly for 1 mile.
Day 2: Rest or stretch.
Day 3: Walk/jog intervals: Jog 1 minute, walk 2 minutes; repeat until you reach 1.5 miles.
Day 4: Rest.
Day 5: Walk briskly for 1.5 miles.
Day 6: Walk/jog intervals: Jog 2 minutes, walk 1 minute; repeat for 2 miles.
Day 7: Active Rest: Easy walk, hike, or fun family activity.

WEEK 2:

STRETCH THOSE WINGS

Goal: Increase distance and jogging time.

Day 1: Walk/jog 2 miles at a comfortable pace.
Day 2: Rest.
Day 3: Jog 3 minutes, walk 1 minute; repeat for 2 miles.
Day 4: Rest or light yoga/stretch.
Day 5: Brisk walk or jog/walk 2.5 miles.
Day 6: Jog 4 minutes, walk 1 minute; repeat for 2.5 miles.
Day 7: Active Rest: Easy walk, hike, or fun family activity.

WEEK 3:

TIME TO TROT

Goal: Build confidence to finish the full 5K.

Day 1: Jog/walk 2 miles at a leisurely pace.
Day 2: Rest.
Day 3: Jog 5 minutes, walk 1 minute; repeat for 2.5 miles.
Day 4: Rest.
Day 5: Jog/walk 2 miles at a relaxed pace.
Day 6: Rest (save your energy!).
Day 7 (Race Day!): You put in the work, now go have some fun!

QUICK TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL TROT

Pace yourself: You don’t need to sprint. Start slow, you’ll have more left in the tank to finish strong.
Mix it up: Training on the trails, paved bike paths, or neighborhood loops keeps things interesting.
Gear up: Dress in layers on race day, as mornings can be chilly in November!
Enjoy it: A Turkey Trot is all about community, fun, giving back, and a festive way to kick off the holiday season.

Originally printed in the November 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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Maria Weidich

Originally from Alaska, Maria now resides in Billings with her husband, two girls, and a chocolate lab named Echo. She loves spending time in the mountains. Since moving to Montana, she has developed an insatiable sweet tooth for the Beartooths.

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