Editor’s note: In this new column, we’ll share ideas and inspiration for using exercise as a tool to develop overall health. We’ll feature programs and people who are creating their own communities through physical activity, and finding social, emotional, mental and spiritual fulfilment in the process. If you have any suggestions, please email us. Carrie@EvanstonRoundTable.com.
credit: Jörg Metzner
Despite the wind, rain and humidity, the Book and Book walking group continues its weekly trek along the Green Bay Trail. For nine years, its 11 members have been meeting every Wednesday morning to get their heart rates up and discuss printable news.
Organizer Jan Fees said Book and Book members, or Bookers as they’re known, have created a community that reaches far beyond the walk. “When we first got together, people kind of knew each other and it just naturally evolved into a great place for social and emotional support,” she said.
The name Book and Book reflects their very loose agenda: The group meets to discuss a New York Times cover story (first Book) and then takes a brisk walk around a six-mile loop (second Book).
“At first I thought we’d read and discuss a short book each week, but that seemed unrealistic. I like The Times for its length and variety of topics,” Fees says. “Over the years, topics have included sports, travel, the environment and hot-button political issues. Many of these are articles I would never read on my own, or that don’t interest me. But it’s always fun to learn about new subjects.”
Walking provides all the physical benefits of aerobic exercise – increased heart rate, improved balance, increased strength and increased energy – and when combined with discussion, it also benefits Bookers members’ social, intellectual and emotional wellbeing.
Fees said members have tried other activities over the years, but walking is what has stuck with them.
“We’ve all done just about any kind of exercise, but brisk walking is something we keep coming back to,” she said. “Many of us have knee and hip problems and other minor ailments as we get older, but we make sure to take breaks and stretch. Walking is low-impact, it strengthens your leg muscles, you can do it anywhere, and it’s free.”
Showing up at a set time each week gives bookers a sense of purpose and community away from their busy jobs, families and homes.
“The sense of accountability in the group and the commitment to others and to ourselves is a big reason why we keep going. Most of us work and have busy lives and other obligations, but making this part of our routine really makes us want to participate,” Fees continued.
The Booker family can handle a little bit of weather, but travel to the Levy Center or other protected areas if conditions are dangerous. “We’re out there rain or shine, there have been a few winters where we’ve walked through the forest preserve or even to the mall, but we’re a strong, dedicated group,” Fees said.
The range of topics is very varied, but all subjects are welcomed in the group.
“Articles about AI always spark debate. We’ve had long discussions about the dangers of self-driving cars. Of course, there’s a lot of talk about Israel and, most recently, a long discussion about how the US is funding its military operations in the Pacific. I read an article about basketball phenom Russell Westbrook that I would never have picked up otherwise but found very interesting,” she said.
Some stories require an entire walk to unpack all the ideas. Bookers often join in on the chat, which generates its own discussion. “Stories about global warming and climate change make us reflect on our own habits,” Fees says. “We share little tips, like not using paper towels or turning off the water when brushing our teeth. These ideas give us a new perspective and motivate us.”
She said the combination of mind, body and spiritual stimulation contributes to an enhanced overall sense of well-being.
“Book and Book fulfills us on a physical, social and intellectual level. Everyone has a chance to speak and be heard, and they feel truly heard,” reflects Feeth. “People naturally break into small groups to discuss, and everyone walks with a different partner each time. It’s a weekly opportunity to build relationships and have meaningful discussions that can easily be forgotten in our busy lives. With the added bonus of finishing the walk, we feel uplifted, inspired and have gotten some much needed exercise.”
