4 runners ran 3.5km and did some gardening at the Salvation Army

Last night four stalwart runners braved the insane temperatures to get down to the Salvation Army for some digging, pruning and general gardening goodness last night.

We were welcomed by Chris who showed us what has come of the amazing work we got done last time. Their backyard looked amazing having been cleared of weeds and rubbish by GoodGym Croydon some weeks ago. It's now a perfect spot for enjoying this crazy long summer we're having! We were meant to be painting the backyard fences but a homeless man who was support by the Salvation Army wanted to give something back so he painted everything for them this week! This story elicited many 'ahs' from our group! So we got to work weeding a flowerbed and digging it out ready to be made into something delightful by Chris and his volunteers. Sweaty work all that digging!

After a good session of digging, shoveling and pruning we munched the fruit Chris had kindly brought for us, downed some squash (we're so spoilt at the Salvation Army!) and off we went.

As evenings are getting darker earlier we opted not for Wandle Park itself but for the railway bridge into it - yup, you heard me - stair drills! Hopping, skipping, and sprinting up the steps several times had everyone nice and sweaty and smiley. We worked on our arm drive for going uphill (and upstairs!) - Rachel doing an excellent job of making those arms work hard!

Stairs smashed, it was time for a loop-the-loop run home. Many thanks to Dom who co-piloted the whole way - even adding in a cheeky loop that we didn't tell the others about until the last minute ;) And a super well done to Geeta who really pushed herself, supported by the wonderful Leanne who, as ever, held up the supporting, encouraging and general good vibes that make GoodGym what we are!

A smashing night - a lovely task and some gnarly drills.

Thanks for making my first Crodyon experience a blast!

Lucy J