First up, the amazing news. GoodGym Hounslow absolutely smashed its January target. That's right, despite the freezing weather and dark evenings, team Hounslow managed to clock up an amazing 80 good deeds and 1133 kms (so far) thereby exceeding the goal. Absolutely brilliant work, a high five to each and every one of you!

Last night we came from all directions on foot and two wheels and converged at Cavendish school for the first time in a while. The new caretaker, Andrew, took Chris through all the jobs to be one. Chris then expertly took the lead and we all chose our area to work on.

The jobs were to transport logs and branches to the nature area, and to clear the playground of the many, many (many) fallen leaves.

As usual, tools were at a premium and there was some bartering to be done over the best kit for the job. Somehow I ended up with the kid sized fork and spade, which proved to be surprisingly effective, while Michelle raked, Chris shoveled, Alan wheelbarrowed, Luis loaded and Beth, Jonny, Emily and Kymm swept and collected like troopers.

It was difficult to know when to stop, but with the school area looking much clearer and neater we downed our respective tools, and made our way into the night.

The fitness session for the evening was based on agility for runners, and it proved to showcase some extremely impressive fast feet, dexterity and coordination. The team bounded its way three times over some (badly drawn) chalk ladder runs, leaps and other drills. Runners need to use fast reflexes, coordination, and quick reaction time to react to situations with speed and efficiency, both on road but especially cross country. Kudos for navigating the course with such efficiency!

January may be almost over, but there is plenty to get you motivated into February. To kick off, join run leader Chris next wednesday for this group session] (https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions/helping-with-the-comboni-garden-project-17d2f68b-4db8-4f18-82c1-72806969f20e) or sign up for our new mission at the local Age Concern friendship club!