Last night was quintessential GoodGym gold. With cooler temperatures and awe-inspiring hues above, 20 plus runners did a ridiculously efficient job assisting an educational wildlife garden.

We welcomed Newham first timers Lauren, Sally (my Archway neighbour), Amy and Dave (old pal of mine who's been threatening to come for almost four years).

Random Weekly Question courtesy of big JW, "what's your favourite sports book or film?" Chariots of Fire a classic late answer, Dodge Ball, Rocky, Blind Side, The Mighty Ducks, Cool Runnings and plenty other Hollywood Hits. Bend It Like Beckham for the noughties nostalgia, The Zidane film and Icarus- an incredible true story, must see (Netflix).

2.5k to West Ham Park, and you all wasted no time getting stuck into the task. Laying woodchip down on paths. creating borders with the various lengths of log and a bit of weeding around larger plants & saplings. Beautifully effective hustle, got a considerable amount done, some superb energy flowing the ranks this week. Our man in charge, Tom, blew a whistle to signal end of play at 8pm. By that time the mulch pile had dissolved to a mere shadow of its former self.

I could sense burning collective desire to conclude the task with some core work, got to give the people what they want. 5 exercises done - 5 minutes later a marginally stronger corset of muscles. Nicely nailed one and all.

I believe a hit team of crisp munchers and pint swiggers headed over to the pub for high level GoodGym strategy talk. I'm sure they've arranged this week's parkrun location?

Next week it's over to Manorfield Primary School, and it's been a while. Sign up here

Make your weekends count, looks to be a bit cooler so no reason not lace up and run free.

Till next week

B

With Waltham Forest regular Ercole (give him a cheer - he reached 50 tasks this week!) being one of the founding members of the junior parkrun in Jubilee Park it was only a matter of time before a Goodgym take-over!

So today a mixed bunch of Goodgym members passed up on the opportunity of a Sunday morning lie-in, but assembled in the sun in the park instead - from experienced Beth to Lauren on only her second GG adventure and Sally visiting from Camden. Run Director Ercole organised the troops and had everyone lined up for the warm-up when the clouds opened up. But althought a bit of rain made some adults regret forgetting a coat/leaving it in the car, it did nothing to stop the waiting bundles of energy also described as kids, they almost seemed spurred on to go even quicker, it was great to see all of them perk up spotting the finish and sprinting to get to the end!

Like with a pair of book-ends, a second rain shower rounded off the outdoor activities for today. A quick team picture before some had to shoot off - hope the weather held up for your mission, Sally! After putting away the bits & pieces part of the team visited an until now well-kept secret, Kukoolala Cafe, to dry out and enjoy some delicious pancakes - highly recommended!

On Wednesday it is back to the normal group-run - sign up here to join trainer Ant at Mirth, Marvel & Maud for the next adventure around Waltham Forest.