8K Turkey Day: A Thanksgiving Workout in Walnut Creek That’s More Than a Turkey Trot

There’s nothing wrong with a traditional Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. But if you’ve done the same 5K year after year, navigated the crowded starting lines, and paid another registration fee just to run a few miles, maybe it’s time for something different.

This Thanksgiving, CrossFit Sweat Shop in Walnut Creek is putting a new spin on the Turkey Trot.

Introducing 8K Turkey Day, a HYROX-inspired workout combining running, strength, and endurance into one challenging (and fun) Thanksgiving morning event.

Whether you’re preparing for HYROX Anaheim, curious about trying HYROX-style training, or simply want a better way to kick off Thanksgiving before the afternoon feast, this one’s for you.

What Is 8K Turkey Day?

On Thursday, November 26, 2026, at 8:00 AM, we’re bringing together two things we love: running and functional fitness.

The format is simple:

8 × 1,000-meter runs + 8 workout stations.

After each 1,000-meter run, you’ll complete a different station before heading out for the next run.

The eight stations include:

• 750m SkiErg
• 70m Sled Push
• 750m Row
• 1,500m Bike
• 200m Farmer Carry
• 25 Burpee Box Jumps
• 50m Walking Lunges
• 100 Wall Balls

It’s a mix of endurance, strength, and grit that makes the workout more interesting than simply logging eight kilometers on the road.

And here’s the best part: You can take on the entire challenge solo or team up with a partner and split the stations.

Racing HYROX Anaheim? Consider This Your Final Tune-Up.

With HYROX Anaheim taking place the week after Thanksgiving, 8K Turkey Day offers a great opportunity to get one final race-style workout in before the big event.

This is especially useful for athletes competing in doubles.

Maybe you and your partner have been following your own training schedules but haven’t had many opportunities to work through stations together. This is your chance to practice communicating, managing your effort, and figuring out how to divide the work.

You’ll get a feel for your pacing, transitions, and teamwork in a supportive training environment.

Of course, with race day approaching, there’s no need to go all-out. Treat it as an opportunity to fine-tune your preparation rather than leave everything on the gym floor.

Curious About HYROX? Here’s Your Chance to Try It.

You’ve probably heard about HYROX or seen videos of athletes running between workout stations. But maybe you’ve wondered whether it’s something you’d actually enjoy.

8K Turkey Day is a great introduction.

This is a HYROX-inspired workout, NOT an official HYROX simulation.

There won’t be judges enforcing competition standards, and we’ll have scaling options available for different fitness levels.

You don’t need to be an experienced CrossFit athlete, have completed a HYROX race, or even be a member of CrossFit Sweat Shop to participate.

Our coaches will help you approach the workout at a level that makes sense for you.

The goal is to challenge yourself, have fun, and experience what this style of training is all about.

A Different Kind of Thanksgiving Tradition

Let’s face it. Thanksgiving usually revolves around food, family, football, and finding room for one more serving of stuffing.

Why not start the day by doing something active?

Instead of another crowded 5K, you’ll get a challenging workout, a fun atmosphere, and the opportunity to connect with other people who enjoy fitness.

And you don’t have to be training for a competition to appreciate that.

If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving fitness event in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, or Concord, we’d love to have you join us.

8K Turkey Day Event Details

Date: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2026

Time: 8:00 AM

Location: CrossFit Sweat Shop, 1401 Autocenter Dr., Walnut Creek, CA 94597

Cost: FREE for Sweat Shop members | $35 drop-in for non-members

Who can participate: Everyone! Members, non-members, HYROX athletes, and HYROX-curious newcomers are welcome.

Format: Solo or partner, with scaling options available.

How to Register for 8K Turkey Day

Reservations open [HERE]  Sunday, November 8, at 8:00 PM 

Whether you’re using this as a final HYROX Anaheim tune-up, looking for an alternative to the usual Turkey Trot, or just want to earn that second helping of pumpkin pie, we’d love to see you.

Reserve your spot through CrossFit Sweat Shop’s Zen Planner booking system.

Come for the workout. Stay for the community. Then go enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. 🦃