A record number of runners (and walkers) were expected to hit the street this morning, burning off a few calories before tearing into their turkey. The annual ‘turkey trot’ tradition goes back longer than you might think.

From farming practices to dances, the phrase "turkey trot" has been used for several things over the past two centuries.

Peter Vail wins the individual costume contest of the 35th annual Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k in downtown Orlando, on Thursday, November 28, 2024. His 5-year-old nephew helped him make his costume. (Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda/ Orlando Sentinel)

The first Ames Turkey Trot 5k will take runners through some of the best parts of town on Thanksgiving, including downtown and Brookside Park. The inaugural event will start at 9 a.m. on Thursday, giving families plenty of time to rest up for their hearty holiday meals.

Thanksgiving got off to a running start in Terre Haute with the Turkey Trot. This year marks the eleventh trot in the city, and the runners lined the streets downtown near Hulman Center. All race proceeds and canned foods will go to local soup kitchens and food pantries.

Some participated to spend some time with family and friends while others came in full turkey costumes, ready to win the race.

Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. Race started at 8 AM in the morning in downtown San Angelo along the Concho River.

"It's not just a race it's actually much more than just a race," says Aneta Konieczek, two-time Olympian and participant in the Turkey Trot.

Hundreds took part in the Linkville Lopers Running and Walking Club’s annual 5K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning.