For 99 percent of our history, humans have lived as a species on the move, but modern life has stopped us in our tracks. AMERICAN IDLE: A Journey Through Our Sedentary Culture offers the first comprehensive look at the social, cultural, moral and physical consequences of living in a sedentary culture that has immobilized us as effectively as a shattered body part.

As author Mary Collins recovers from a devastating bicycle accident, she begins a journey to find out more about America's wounded national body. She discovers:

* Why humans are meant to move.

* What social changes led us to our current state.

* Why past efforts have been so ineffective, and why will power isn't the problem.

* Our impaired physical selves impact our social lives and moral judgment.

In her pursuit, Collins:

* Visits the Olympic Center, factory floors, archeological sites, city planners, health experts, and even the National Zoo.

* Explores the hazards of a society centered on desk jobs.

* Looks into why organized sports have made kids less fit and advocates for more free play.

* Uncovers remarkable new research about how physical activity impacts the adult brain.

* Talks with experts about the growing imbalance between our overactive minds and our underused bodies.

* Offers advice on how to integrate movement into the natural flow of our daily lives again.

In sum, AMERICAN IDLE offers readers a road map back to physical grace.