GoodGym Barnet – Joyful Hydration & Time-Travelling Conversations

Six of us gathered outside the Phoenix Cinema and, before even breaking sweat, launched into a surprisingly philosophical warm-up: “If you could observe any period in history, where & when would you go?” Answers ranged from Aztec civilisation to Victorian London – the kind of discussion that might get us expelled from most running clubs but is positively encouraged at GoodGym.( well Barnett anyway.)

With our time-machine firmly parked, we jogged off towards Lyttelton Playing Fields to give the planters and orchard some much-needed love. Sadly, our host Steven was ill – but, being seasoned water-warriors, we knew the drill.

We gently built up the pace downhill, tracing the buried course of Mutton Brook (underground river, very on-trend). A quick on-the-spot exercise stop – complete with skipping – reminded us that fitness can (and should) still feel playful. One of our newer recruits Emilysummed it up perfectly as “joyful movement”.

On arrival, we uncoiled a hose of comedic length which, inevitably, didn’t reach all the planters. Enter: Buckets. Suddenly we were running relays across the field, racing to deliver precious water before any of it escaped. Orchard next – further, heavier, and definitely sweatier – but the teamwork was brilliant and spirits remained high. Honestly, the Aztecs would have been proud.

Buckets emptied and hose recoiled (no small feat), we still had a few minutes left – so naturally, yoga and star jumps. The latter required several “just one more!” photographs, which definitely qualified as bonus cardio.

We jogged back into the darkening evening, happy, hydrated (us and the trees), and reminded that community + exercise + a bit of silliness = exactly what GoodGym is all about.

Come and join next time – time travel optional, skipping encouraged.