It was a festive-feeling evening as we jogged over to Plaistow Primary, where Rosie – deputy head and top Newham GoodGymmer – had a stack of books waiting for us to turn into presents.

On the run over we caught up with Eugene, back from Morocco and full of stories (and presumably tagine). Once inside, we settled into a rhythm of fold–tape–repeat, with plenty of interesting chat including a deep dive into unusual world champions. My favourite has to be Rock–Paper–Scissors world champion who, unbelievably, was prevented from defending their title due to an arm injury. The cruel fate of niche elite sport.

We wrapped a solid pile of books before our scheduled finishing time, but we were pleased to hear that the dinner ladies would be finishing the rest later in the week. Apparently they are clinically efficient in their execution of these sorts of tasks, so the presents are in very safe hands.

One last task for 2025 is lined up for next week at Hackney Marshes Adventure Playground, and then we’re onto lining up a whole load of sessions for January. Perfect timing to catch everyone with fresh New Year’s resolutions to get fit, do good, and support their local community.

Good wrapping, good running, good company. GoodGym. 🎁🏃‍♂️✨

At the end of last week's run report (mostly about rain and mud), I'd (more in hope) mentioned that next week would see a return to blue skies...and so I clearly wasn't the only one delighted this morning to see the sun out and crisp-ish conditions underfoot, as we were joined by 54 enthusiastic runners (including 4 first timers) under the big tree this morning, and a full house of volunteers too...amazing what a bit of sunshine can do to the mood.

After Run Director Mas had led the warm up, and the handing out of milestone wristbands to those who'd achieved either half or full marathon status, it was a big crowd on the start line waiting for the off - timekeeper Rue kept them on their marks and then it was go, go, go for the pack, keeping GG regulars and Hi Viz heroes Hilary, Sooz and Nick to the left at all times. The sun (or a hearty breakfast) had clearly boosted a few, as we saw 7 PBs set, and a lot of rosy, mostly smiley, faces at the finish.

It'll be sunny and blue skies again next week - come and join us then for more Sunday fun at the Fields!

A chilly evening, but the mission continued! After last week’s successful flyering, our GoodGym crew returned to the streets around Cody Dock with more flyers in hand. This time, we tackled a fresh set of houses, putting our “conveyor belt” technique to work once again for maximum efficiency.

As before, there were plenty of smiles, plenty of steps, and one clear outcome: even more neighbours are now in the know about the upcoming Frost Fair. Another perfect mix of community, movement, and chilly cheer!

A chilly evening with a clear purpose - our GoodGym crew took to the streets around Cody Dock & Canning Town to help spread the word about the upcoming Frost Fair. With flyers in hand, we honed the “conveyor-belt technique”, gliding down a row of houses with peak efficiency and only slightly chilly fingers.

There were plenty of smiles, plenty of steps, and one definite outcome: a whole lot more neighbours now know the Frost Fair is on its way. A perfect blend of movement, community, and cold-weather cheer!