Walking Book Clubs Boost Your Steps and Book Count: Why More Readers Are Joining Them

Wouldn’t it be great if we could read and walk at the same time? Technically, with walking book clubs — a new take on chatting about books while squeezing in exercise — you can. The trend is gaining popularity on social media, and multitasking has never been easier.  Keep scrolling to find out more about walking book clubs, the feel-great benefits and how you can participate.

What are walking book clubs?

Walking book clubs are similar to other book clubs in the sense that people come together to discuss their latest read. “The difference is that instead of sitting around a table or in a living room to hold a conversation about the book, people walk and talk about it,” says writer Emily Rhodes , founder of Emily’s Walking Book Cub.

In walking book clubs, participants listen to audiobooks for the duration of their walk. But you don’t have to actually head outside for a walk, says, Julie Kaminski, MA, NBC-HWC and founder of The Walking Book Club [add link]. Her one rule? “You must be moving to listen.” Any form of physical activity is good in Kaminski’s book, although walking is the most common way to approach this reading trend.

“We listen to an audiobook while walking, running, cycling or even doing otherwise mundane chores around the house, and we share our opinions and walking adventures in our private online community,” adds Kaminski.

When it comes to discussing your book, different book clubs work differently. Emily’s Walking Book Club has a set path and meets in person. From there they have stopping points along the walk to discuss parts of the book. But the discussion part of The Walking Book Club is virtual and you can participate from anywhere.

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How are the books selected?

For her walking book club, Rhodes purposefully selects books that aren’t new releases. “Emily’s Walking Book Club helps readers find hidden gems, hiding on the shelves — books you will be glad to have read but would otherwise struggle to find.”

Kaminski’s approach is a bit different. “Audiobooks are selected based on multiple factors, including the narrator, length, genre and reviews,” she says.” We rate our group-selected audiobooks with Sneaker Ratings on the quality of narration, motivation to move and overall experience.

Why are walking book clubs so popular?

Book clubs can easily bring people together and build strong communities. With walking book clubs people from any background or social standing can participate. “On the face of it, the only thing they have in common is having read the same book, so there are no social politics at play,” says Rhodes.

This approach to reading allows for multitasking, and if you’re busy like us, this a great option to incorporate into your routine.

What are the benefits of walking book clubs?

In addition to making new friends, chatting with fellow readers and getting outside, walking book clubs are great for your physical and mental health.

It’s great for your physical health

“Walking is a powerful, low-impact exercise that can significantly improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system and increase energy levels,” says Kaminski. It’s a go-to exercise for many people, and walking book clubs allow you to get outside and move.

However, it’s not just about walking. Kaminski says “the additional activity increases nonexercise active thermogenesis, or NEAT, which also has multiple benefits for health, especially metabolic health.”

Walking book clubs boost your mental health

Reading allows you to escape reality a bit. “Books are an exceptionally fertile common ground,” says Rhodes. “We approach really big issues through the books — love, grief, parenthood, migration, growing up, family dynamics, to name a few. These discussions allow members to form friendships and foster deeper connections along the walk.

Kaminski adds that stepping into nature can help reduce stress, too. “This mindful time can ignite your creativity and sharpen your focus, making you more productive and happier when you return to your routine.”

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How can you join a walking book club?

You can start your own or join an established group. For example, you can participate in The Walking Book Club from anywhere in the world. Kaminski says it’s as simple as following along on Instagram, signing up through email or participating in an online discussion group.

Rhodes says her walking book club always takes new members and her community of 3,000 participants is global as well with half residing in the U.S. But you can also simply search for a club online and find a community where you live.

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