Well, here we are. Thanksgiving 2020. To say the least, it’s been a challenging year, and that is putting it mildly. When it can be all too tempting to dwell on the things we don’t have or might be missing from our previous livesanything from job loss to the inability to spend the holidays with loved onesit is far more productive to focus on what we DO have. Here’s a start: a roof over our head; food to eat; a wonderful community full of like-minded individuals who are invested in our health and well being (lookin’ at you, Fearless fam). Ok, you get the idea. As we prepare ourselves to once again convene virtually—over the holidays, no less—why not make a list: every day, write down one thing you are thankful for. It can literally be anything, big or small: a great workout, comfortable bed, a good night’s sleep, or maybe that cup of coffee or bowl of oatmeal just hit so right this morning. If you start today, you’ll have a list of 37 things for which you are thankful by December 31. What a way to end the year! The point is, there’s no better time than now to count your blessings. So what are you waiting for? Over to you, fam. What are you thankful for?

Looking to start a gratitude journal or practice? This Five Minute Journal is an easy addition to your day!

Fearless Eating: Thanksgiving Edition

Arguably one of the best food holidays of the year: Thanksgiving. Whether you’re a party of one or fortunate enough to have a few near and dear under your roof, these recipes will be a great addition to any holiday table.

And last but certainly not least, if you are looking to treat yourself and splurge a little this Thanksgiving, why not add a scoop of ice cream to your pie? Did you know Fearless Athletics member Cathryn Sanderson is one of the masterminds behind Philadelphia-based ice cream company Milk Jawn? Support small businesses and one of our own by shopping local this holiday season. Have your pints delivered, or keep your eyes peeled for their weekend pop ups!

Thanksgiving Reading

If you need a little perspective this holiday season, check out Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning. It’s a short but powerful read that will help you focus your intentions into the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Listening

If you’re looking for an inspiring listen, check out Dhru Purohit’s Broken Brain podcast. Dhru talks to Erik Weihenmayer in episode 138 entitled The Blind Adventurer Who Climbed Everest and Broke Barriers. There’s no chance you won’t come away feeling inspired.

Murph @Home Edition

For time:

  • 1 mile run
  • 100 pull ups
  • 200 push ups
  • 300 air squats
  • 1 mile run

In memory of Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy, 29, of Patchogue, N.Y., who was killed in Afghanistan June 28th, 2005.

This workout was one of Mike’s favorites and he’d named it “Body Armor”. From here on it will be referred to as “Murph” in honor of the focused warrior and great American who wanted nothing more in life than to serve this great country and the beautiful people who make it what it is. Partition the pull-ups, push-ups, and squats as needed. Start and finish with a mile run. If you’ve got a twenty pound vest or body armor, wear it.

Scaling options:

  • Don’t have pull ups or access to a pull-up bar?
  • DB or KB bent-over rows
  • TRX or ring rows
  • Resistance band bent-over rows (band under feet, hinge at hips)
  • Resistance band rows (fasten resistance band to a pole or sturdy table leg, pull to chest)
  • Supine rows if you can find a low bar at a park

Towel rows Pro tip: map out your one-mile run route on www.mapmyrun.com. Get after it, team, and be sure to tag us on Instagram @fearlessphl and let us know how you did!

Written by Coach Natalie Lewis