Shopping for Mr K, this time featuring soap

On what feels like the 347th consecutive day of rain, GGers layered up with as many waterproofs we could get our hands on and, if we weren't already wet enough, headed for the river.

We are going to be back to our regular spot for litter picking more regularly as Active 360, who lend us their litter pickers and other tools, are trying to crack down on all the plastics and other nasties that pollute the area.

Not only will that help the problem, but if passers by see the area is being cared for, they will be less likely to throw their rubbish into and around the water. That's the plan!

The evening also saw the newly tried and tested 'double glove' approach - two layers keep the warmth in the and the wet (and worse) out!

The shoreline looked dirtier than usual, so we had to refresh our bags and trugs several times as we collected bottles, packets and even, in Steph's case, an abandoned boat chair. The things we find!

In half an hour we had filled several black bin bags full of litter that would otherwise be poisoning the waterways and left them for the council to pick up.

We moved on to our usual well lit spot for fitness, which this time involved isometric - or static - holds. These endurance-boosting moves help build stability and balance and are deceptively difficult. From leg extensions to split squats we held steady and worked through eight different holds.

Next week we're going to be supporting Wild Chiswick at the allotment - keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and a dry evening (or keep those gloves handy)!

Back to Ms L in Hounslow but for her back garden this time. Last session was the front garden with Kash - this time I was alone for the back garden. Same story for the grass : not to be done as wet which means weeding time. Cleared the weeds in the patio section : slabs free from weed. Then did the side entrance to the garden and cleared the path going the the back of the garden to make it more accessible and ready for when the bungalow will be installed on the left and the sheds moved. Socio-path : the weeds taking over the path! Taking the Path of Most Resistance (Weeds) - path master at work today. Now a clear path for Ms L : a clear path to doing good!!

Shopping for Mr K, this time featuring pens

Sometimes you plan on going to task. Sometimes you just happen to walk there with other Goodgymers simply because you weren't 100% certain of your best way home after ParkRun. And whose is to complain!

In any case, beyond the social butterfly that I am, 6 proper, reliable and dedicated GoodGymers were in attendance this morning at Harvard Hill: Michelle, Ariane, Alan, Chris, Kymm and Maxime.

Shortly after our arrival, the team of local neighbours, cultivate and abundance london got us not 1, not 2 but 300! young native trees to plant alongside the back wall of the park currently bare with the exception of some old graffitis.

We were tasked to plant those in some sort of V shape with the aim of producing a rather natural bush formation by the time they mature.

And so we dug, we planted and we dug and we planted. With the great turnout of local residents as well the task was a great success and even though not all trees were planted by the time we left off the whole wall area was covered and some more trees ended up being planted elsewhere.

Having done such a good job, some of us decided to treat ourselves with some brunch (the social butterfly was at it again!)

Now we shall come back soon to Harvard Hill to see how those little trees will have grown!

Eight GoodGym members turned out to help out at Strand on the Green School, even if one of us was late for registration.

We split into two teams and got straight to work around the pond area. One group — Florian, Michelle, Maxime and Chris — took on the tough task of clearing ivy from the wall surrounding the pond, making a big dent in what had become an impressive tangle.

Meanwhile, Lucy, Breda, Emily and Gus (once he eventually made it through the school gates — detention!!) got stuck into scrubbing the deck around the pond. Extra care was taken not to disturb the pond life, proving that speed and sensitivity can go hand in hand.

Armed with headtorches and running lights, we worked quick as a flash. Before long the jobs were done, it was time to run back, squeeze in some light stretches, and then — naturally — head to the pub.

Coming up this Saturday in Hounslow:

Our rearranged community mission with Friends of Harvard Hill, planting donated trees 🌱 https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/tree-planting-session-at-harvard-hill

A session helping out at Baron's pond in Gunnersbury https://www.goodgym.org/happenings/help-get-baron-s-ponds-ready-for-spring

Plenty more chances to get involved — hope to see lots of you there!