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!

Despite the rain, GoodGym Barnet embraced the challenge with gusto during our run from the Phoenix Cinema. We conducted an extended warm-up to prepare for the weather, then tackled litter on the High Street, filling four bags. Amidst the rain, we bonded over conversations with friends, pairing up to ensure everyone had a chance to connect. Our run wasn't just about fitness; it was about strengthening community bonds, rain or shine.

In the heart of East Finchley, a group of spirited individuals gathered at the historic Phoenix cinema, ready to embark on a mission of community transformation. GoodGym Barnet's latest endeavor promised an evening of camaraderie, purpose, and positive impact.

As twilight descended, the team set off towards Martin Primary School, fueled by a shared commitment to enhancing the local environment. With wheelie bins, wheelbarrows, shovels, and rakes in tow, our runners converged on the forest paths, determined to breathe new life into the landscape.

Against the backdrop of a starlit sky, laughter and banter filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie. As woodchip was spread along the trails, bonds were strengthened, and friendships forged, making every moment a testament to the power of community spirit.

As the evening drew to a close, GoodGym Barnet returned to the Phoenix cinema, their mission accomplished to do a warmdown stretch.

Thanks for coming running and doing some good!

We have done our first GoodGym Sunday session at the Food Bank Aid in North Finchley since they changed Saturdays for Sundays.

Kirsten, Antonio and Cloud have joined 4 other Food Bank Aid volunteers today. Initially, it seemed that Kirsten started on the wrong food (see picture) but oh my! she did a grape job stacking jars, packets of flour counting eggs!

It's now the second thyme that Antonio joins us, and he is getting so confident with the task at hand, that he turniped up in pretty smart clothes. He moved crates and crates of flour, sugar, ketchup, potatoes and by the end of it, his trousers and shirt still looking fabulous! Quite smart this guy! Well done!

Big shout out to Kirsten who has recently had a minor foot surgery but didn't let this stop her from volunteering! We have given her suitable tasks to adapt her reduced mobility which doesn't mean easy: she was in charged of counting and packing 180 eggs ...she could have easily bean walking on egg shells with that foot!

Thank you for stopping your sunday afternoon to come out to support such a good cause! Kidneys goes a long way and unfortunately there are loads of families in north london that benefit from this great charity!

Keep up the grape work volunteers !

Peas & Loaf