GoodGym Barnet gathered at the iconic Phoenix Cinema for an evening of running and community service at Highgate Woods.

We began with a warm-up under the golden hues of a beautiful summer evening, right outside the cinema. The run took us through the picturesque Cherry Tree Woods and up to the enchanting Highgate Woods, a remnant of the ancient woodlands that once covered this area, where traces of Roman activity have been discovered.

Upon arrival, we met Cindy, the enthusiastic Highgate Woods Ranger, at the Pavilion Café in the heart of the woods. Our task was to dismantle den structures and repurpose the wood to fence off areas for regrowth. Cindy, with her deep knowledge of the local wildlife, enriched our understanding of the woodland ecosystem. She shared exciting news about a nesting hobby, a small bird of prey, that had relocated to Highgate Woods from Queenwood. To protect the chicks, the area beneath their nesting tree was cordoned off.

Cindy also spoke about her recent experience with a wildlife hospital in Rickmansworth, which cared for a pair of orphaned hedgehogs. This highlighted the growing pressures on wildlife due to human encroachment.

Working beneath the canopy of ancient trees, we dismantled the wooden dens and fenced off an area being used as a shortcut by passersby. The serene surroundings, filled with bird calls and fresh, clean air, made the task a joy. To our delight, we completed the job swiftly and took a moment to enjoy some yoga under the trees.

As the evening drew to a close, we headed home, feeling accomplished and a bit more knowledgeable about our local woodland. It was a perfect way to spend a beautiful summer evening, blending fitness, nature, and community service. Join us next time at GoodGym Barnet to experience these magical moments and make a positive impact on our environment.

Today 4 GoodGymers Beattie, Theodore, Moya and Lucinda (shout out for her second Good Gym session!) did a respectable run of 6km total to our local Tiny Forest, a haven of growth nestled next to the north circular road. Last time I was there we did some weeding of thistles and other plants taking over, but you wouldn't be able to tell from the dense growth that we found! Our task for the evening was to take measurements and record data into the Tiny Forest Citizen Science survey recording how different trees are growing. We looked for trees with number tags, and whilst most of us hung around the periphery Beattie was an intrepid explorer and dove through the thorns to find new specimens (well she is a scientist after all) and came out the other side untouched. We were all very impressed. One curious thing we'd noticed was that there were a growing number of trees spreading outside of the fenced area (see picture), which leads to the question, are they trees, or are they Tolkien's Ents? Perhaps the beautiful rainbow we saw on the way back is a sign....

What do you get when you mix nine eager GoodGym runners, a plot of land, and a historic charity? A wheelbarrow load of fun, fitness, and community spirit, of course!

Last night, on a gloriously warm summer evening with a few picturesque clouds, we set off on a mission to support the Finchley Charities. These good folks have been helping the community for over 500 years, primarily through their Armes houses, but also by nurturing an allotment that provides fresh food for the local food bank.

Our run was off to a dynamic start as we paused for a round of dropkick squats—because why not add some flair to our fitness? Then, onward we dashed, meeting up with Anton at the allotment. Anton gave us the lowdown on the Finchley Charities and led us through some very imposing gates. (Seriously, these gates were practically auditioning for a part in the next Game of Thrones season.)

With the gates behind us, we jogged through the lush allotments, making our way to the heart of the Finchley Charities site. Tasks were promptly dished out: some of us took on the heavy-duty job of wheelbarrowing mulch down to the bottom of the allotment to prep the area for visiting school kids. Others got down and dirty with some weeding and continued the epic quest of digging out an area for a new pond.

Time flew by as we dug, weeded, and mulched, and before we knew it, it was time to head back. We made our way back to the Phoenix Cinema for a well-earned warmdown.

A big shoutout to everyone who came out to run, work up a sweat, and do some good. in particular to our new runners.Michaela and James

Remember, every step we take and every task we tackle makes a difference. See you at the next run!

Keep running and doing good!

The Good Gym group tonight had a perfect activity for a balmy summers evening. Moya, Rachel and Beattie set off on a short run to the Long Lane Pasture Nature Reserve, a little paradise hidden in the back streets of East Finchley, and met up with Yesika and George and the crew from the reserve Donald, Maureen and Winston. A shout out for the snacks and water provided! Our first job was to fish out the life-ring which had found its way into the pond, which was a satisfying challenge aided by some maneuvering with a rake in the undergrowth. We then quickly 'snapped up' the shears and got to work snipping back overhanging brambles and branches so that the winding pathways were kept clear, and George with his professional gardening skills worked on clearing piles around the reserve. We could see some blackberries ready for ripening, and greenfinches, song thrushes and a moorhen kept us entertained with a chorus. We also spotted their bee hives at the end. Do visit this little haven if you get the chance.

Tuesday evening, an intrepid group of GoodGym members assembled at the historic Phoenix Cinema with a dual mission: to help out at Northway Gardens and to get a good workout in the process. The warm summer air was perfect for running, and there was a palpable sense of camaraderie as the group gathered for a warm-up and discussed their summer plans.

Among the group were George and Phil, new to GoodGym, with George impressively having run all the way from home. Moya kindly volunteered to be the back marker, ensuring no one was left behind as the group set off at a gentle pace, weaving through East Finchley tube station and the quiet backstreets.

Once sufficiently warmed up, the group engaged in some Indian running, with sprints to the front keeping everyone on their toes. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the evening—a perfect backdrop for a run in a T-shirt.

Upon reaching Northway Gardens, the group met Brian, their host for the evening. Brian explained the tasks ahead and shared a bit of history: the gardens along Mutton Brook used to be maintained by four groundsmen, but now rely on community volunteers due to budget cuts.

The team split into two groups: one tackled the overgrown vegetation along the bank of the stream, while the other started on a disused flower bed, preparing it for replanting. With dedication and teamwork, they cleared the bed, spread mulch, and made the area ready for new plants. It was a rewarding experience, knowing their efforts would help rejuvenate the gardens for everyone to enjoy.

As the work wrapped up, the group headed back towards the Phoenix, incorporating some paired sprints around a circular track for a final burst of energy. It was a magnificent effort from everyone involved, with special kudos to George and Phil for their enthusiasm, Moya for ensuring the group stayed together, Theo for capturing the evening in photos, and Rachael, the ever-reliable stalwart of the team.

In the end, the evening was a perfect blend of fitness, community service, and socializing. GoodGym had not only contributed to the upkeep of Northway Gardens but also strengthened the bonds within their own group, proving once again that a little community spirit goes a long way.