Thanks to everyone who came along to our first outdoor session at the Synagogue of 2026!

Barbara set us straight to work - well done Andy for your efforts locking the gate. We managed to uncover a significant number of established plants under the influx of not-forget-me-nots, and cleared the way so the boundaries to the flower beds were exposed.

David showed a previously unseen level of stealthiness by managing to tag every GoodGymer with string of sticky weed without their knowledge - impressive work!

We got to hear about Katie's reverse London Marathon adventures, and shared the exploits of Rodger the dog. The less said about the chat towards the end of the session, the better, but let's just say a visit to the butcher will never be the same again.

Thank you so much Duncan for organising a wonderful task for us this evening. Is there anything better on a warm and sunny Friday evening then attending the soft launch of the brand new Hilsea Lido? I certainly don't think so!

After braving a fairly chilly dip, we warmed up in the lovely sauna, before going for a second swim! Even better, we got to sample the tea, coffee and hot chocolate from the catering can on-site to finish up.

We were able to give the team some feedback on the spot, but any other comments can be sent to Spencer: Spencer.hodge@southdownsleisure.co.uk

I imagine we'll have a few summery socials here over the coming months 🌞

Firstly, a warm welcome to Pauline who joined us for her first GoodGym session. We also welcomed Matthew to his first session, Fiona's fiance (congratulations to you both!)

Tonight was all about celebrating 100 years of our great city. Sinéad and I both wore our Portsmouth leggings. As part of our 100 litter picks in 2026, we did a speed litter pick in Victoria Park. 2 large bags filled in 25 minutes. Best finds included an octopus, barbie lip balm, a fork and a man in a bush (after a very short conversation, Val left him there).

We managed to collectively do 100 exercises in 3 minutes. This was team work at its finest, with a side order of GoodGym laughter thrown in. Not sure we'll be releasing a fitness video just yet.

Finally, on the way home we collected some words for the Portsmouth 100 found words word search. I haven't included all those here otherwise the album would be massive! But they will all get sent to Think Big Do Bigger for their collection.

The city centenary (& my birthday!) have been well and truly celebrated tonight!

Once again, Southsea seafront became stage for this months Run & Rave, one of the main aims of which is to promote a safe nighttime running environment for all. Friday also saw the biggest GoodGym turnout to date!

Six of us hit the prom, with Abby leading the way on sustainability, arriving by bike to get those legs warmed up early! Katie debuted her (legendary) neon smiley rave t-shirt - an elite charity shop find! A huge shout out to our leader Jen for perfectly embracing the rave spirit, sporting a pair of fantastic furry (and purrry) cat ears! Sinéad stole the spotlight, entertaining the crowds with her very own spectacular poi ball light show! Sammy's good will face-painting also attracted crowds, converting the faces of over 10 people with her signature rave design! Sammy also presented GG newcomers with their custom Run & Rave bangles - beautiful gifts which are handmade by honorary GG member Betsy. Thank you so much from us all Betsy, and thanks to everyone for an incredible night.

The flowers are in bloom and the baby animals are out.

We had a lovely time at Baffins Pond today. Seeing the swans on their nest, proud duck parents with 7 ducklings, a moorhen with her baby, a cat keeping an eye on things and plenty of dogs looking for some fuss. My favourite were the 2 ducks sitting out by the dipping pond clearly having a moment of peace away from the kids!!

All this animal action made up for a very uplifting sight of very little litter strewn about the place. But I did continue yesterday's treasure finds with yet another hair band!

My hair wasn't tied up as it isn't long enough. But it appears everyone else was going hair down with the amount of hair bands I had to pick up!

A multitude of sweet wrappers and drinks cans saw me complete a loop of the Rec for another Portsmouth 100 litter pick.