Thanksgiving: a glorious day of family, gratitude, and let’s be honest—copious amounts of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pie. While it’s a time to relax and enjoy, it can also leave you feeling sluggish, bloated, and wondering if your fitness goals went out the window with that second (okay, third) slice of pumpkin pie.

But don’t despair! Getting back into your workout routine after Thanksgiving doesn’t have to feel like climbing Mount Everest. Here’s how to hit the reset button without guilt and with a renewed sense of motivation.

First, remember that it’s normal to overindulge during the holidays. One day of feasting won’t erase months of progress. The key is not letting Thanksgiving morph into a week-long binge fest. As soon as you’re able, start moving again—whether that’s a brisk walk, some light yoga, or your usual workout routine. The goal is to ease back into physical activity to reignite your momentum.

If the thought of cardio makes you groan louder than Uncle Bob’s dad jokes, start small. You don’t need to sprint to the gym and tackle an hour-long sweat session. A 15-minute at-home workout, a dance session in your living room, or a quick jog around the block can work wonders to get your blood flowing and wake up your muscles. Plus, short workouts are easier to commit to when your motivation is still digesting alongside that turkey.

Hydration is another essential step in your post-Thanksgiving fitness comeback. Between the salty side dishes and the glasses of wine, your body is probably crying out for water. Rehydrating helps flush out excess sodium, improves digestion, and even boosts energy—making it that much easier to muster up the strength for a workout.

Another tip? Don’t try to punish yourself for overindulging. Exercise should be about feeling good and building strength, not self-imposed penance for extra gravy. Shift your focus to how movement makes you feel rather than trying to “burn off” calories.

Nutrition also plays a big role in getting back on track. While it’s tempting to keep snacking on leftover pie, aim to fill your plate with lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. If you’re looking to transition smoothly, consider meal prepping some healthy options to make your post-holiday meals as satisfying as the feast itself.

For those who find motivation in structure, setting a short-term goal can be incredibly effective. Maybe it’s committing to three workouts this week or trying a new fitness class. These small wins can rebuild your routine and remind you how good it feels to move your body.

Finally, give yourself grace. The holidays are about connection and enjoyment, and it’s okay to indulge. The important thing is not to let a single day—or weekend—derail your overall health journey. A little movement, some healthy choices, and a positive mindset are all you need to get back in the game.

So lace up those sneakers, grab a water bottle, and show that post-Thanksgiving slump who’s boss. Your fitness goals are still very much within reach—you just need to take that first step.