Women put themselves last on the list,” declares Becky Willems, a Davenport mother and grandmother who, just turning 50, is ready for a new chapter in her life. “With our roles as mothers, wives, friends, employees and neighbors, we get so busy taking care of others, that we neglect ourselves and subsequently our peace of mind.”
Becky, who believes there is strength in numbers, is leading a local movement as president of the Quad Cities Women’s Outdoor Club, which encourages women to make friends, become active, and more importantly, get out of their comfort zones. “I have certainly learned over the years that if you are healthy, strong and fulfilled, everyone in your life, especially your family, will benefit.”
The club is four years old. It has grown from approximately 40 members to reach its 125th member milestone at the end of 2009.
“We are not just for jocks or for elite athletes, by any means,” Becky explains. “Our members range in age from 18-75 and come from all life stages, abilities, occupations and backgrounds. What we share is our desire to learn something new. We want to educate our minds. Stretch our muscles. Make new friends. Broaden our experiences.”
From snowshoeing to hockey
“Our activities are so varied,” adds Kathy Storm, a founding member of the Club, and current membership chair. “We’ve rowed with the Quad City Rowing Club, water-skied with the Backwater Gamblers, played hockey, kayaked, zip-lined, learned self-defense, and hiked in the woods.
Cross-Country Skiing with the Quad City Women's Outdoor Club
“Just this past winter I took a group of women out snowshoeing for the very first time. We had so much fun, and it was a new experience for many of our members. There have been new experiences for me, too. Last fall we went horseback riding. I hadn’t ridden a horse for 20 years and just loved it.” The club averages about two activities a month, and schedules events well in advance so women will make time for themselves.
While learning these new activities, members tap into each other’s expertise or find clubs that can teach them new skills. Along the way, the club has also found ways to incorporate its fitness activities into charity as well, such as adopting a stretch of highway in Scott County Park, and participating in Trinity Hospital women’s health events.
“The point of the club,” adds Becky, “is to try something new. Reinvent yourself, and do so with the support of women who want to see you succeed. When I first joined, I didn’t know how to do half of this stuff, nor did I know anyone. The greatest joys for me have been trying these new experiences while making new friends along the way.”
Kathy agrees. “Women have a very special way of supporting and nurturing each other. While many of us are members of other various clubs, athletic or otherwise that include both men and women, we just find that in a women-focused organization, it’s becomes a safe and supportive environment to try something new without the fear of failure.”
Sledding with the Quad City Women's Outdoor Club
Says Becky, “They push me. You do get better. You face your limits and fears and are stronger as a result.” And, her next adventure? “Skydiving. Definitely. I really do want to jump out of a plane this summer!”
Ready to Join?
To join the Quad Cities Women’s Outdoor Club: sign up at Active Endeavors, Davenport or visit the club’s web site. Dues: $30 Annually. Receive a tech t-shirt, a 10% discount from Active Endeavors, and a $20 off mammogram coupon from Trinity. For more information, contact President Becky Willems.
