Our mission at Gale Street Organic Community Garden was one to remember.

The energy was uplifting, the teamwork inspiring, and the sense of purpose undeniable.

Having Ivo (GoodGym's CEO) join us brought an extra spark of motivation, while Harry stepped up effortlessly into the skipper’s role, guiding the group with calm confidence and enthusiasm.

With Peter and Virginia coming back for their second session ( 🎉 ), along with Irina and Emdad - our group of 6 GoodGymmers rolled up their sleeves: weeding stubborn patches, watering thirsty plants, clearing paths, filling the water tanks, and even a spot of litter picking to keep the garden looking its best. Every small action added up, leaving the space more welcoming for everyone who visits.

But GoodGym is never just about the tasks.

It’s about why we do what we do. GoodGym connects fitness with kindness, whilst turning energy into positive action for the community. By supporting places like Gale Street Community Garden, we’re caring for our shared spaces and plants; we’re cultivating wellbeing, unity, and a greener, brighter environment for all.

Community gardens are powerful spaces. They bring people together, offer fresh air, encourage sustainable habits, and provide a safe, shared place where friendships can grow alongside the flowers and vegetables. Supporting them means supporting healthier, more connected neighbourhoods. Volunteering adds so much more than physical results. It lifts spirits, strengthens mental health, builds awareness of the challenges around us, and nurtures a sense of responsibility. The feel good factor is undeniable; moving, sweating, and smiling together gives a boost no gym session could match.

A heartfelt thank you to Breda and Nassaba, as always, for guiding us every step of the way. Your encouragement keeps us going, and your presence reminds us of the power of community spirit.

Gale Street Organic Community Garden is proof that when people come together to give their time, even for an hour, change happens.

We left not just with dirt on our gloves, but with lighter hearts, stronger bonds, and the knowledge that together, we made a difference.

Our GoodGym Barking & Dagenham team had a mission to complete last night and we were reinforced with FOUR new members!

The large rainwater containers at the Organic Community Garden opposite Becontree Station in Dagenham had become inaccessible, leaving the garden’s water supply out of reach during a crucial summer growing period.

Without access to this precious rainwater, the garden’s fruit trees, vegetables, and herbs risked going thirsty.

Together, we got to work.

New member Emma launched straight in pruning he trees around the the containers to gain access, whilst the rest of us pondered how to get access to the back of the container as tress were growing either side seemingly blocking access.

New GoodGymmer Peter didn't hold back. Spotting another route, jumping up on to the container and clambering over the top, slipping effortlessly down the back. Working together with Ryan, the pair made light work lifting the empty 1000 litre container ready for bricks to be slid underneath.

Who needs to do dead lifts in the gym?!

At the same time, new members Sharmin and Nilu worked with Steven and Emdad to empty the smaller shed and sort it's contents.

Sadly, an attempt had been made to steal the shed some time ago and the roof had been completely destroyed. Apparently not uncommon, the attempt to take the shed was thwarted by Breda's cunning move of bolting the floor the ground! However the contents has suffered from the weather.

Seven GoodGymmers. 45 minutes. 2 tasks completed.

Thanks to our team effort, the taps of the rainwater containers are accessible again, and the plants can be watered with fresh rainwater collected from earlier summer showers. The shed is empty, ready to be dismantled and relocated.

Tonight's session was just one part of an ongoing transformation. Over the summer, the garden is being prepared to host wellness sessions like yoga and mindfulness, as well as planting workshops, children’s activities, and community cooking events.

GoodGymmers in Barking & Dagenham have committed to helping with tasks such as pruning fruit trees, renovating the garden, moving and restoring the shed, and painting key features around the space.

Guided by Breda and Nassaba from Elevate Together, we worked safely and effectively with a relaxed, productive, and energising vibe surrounded by community spirit and the sounds of nature.

Volunteering in green spaces like this has huge benefits - physically, it keeps us active and strong; mentally, it reduces stress, boosts mood, and fosters connection.

GoodGym combines fitness with community action, which is why it’s such a powerful force in neighbourhoods across the UK. It brings people together, creates purpose, and supports those who need it most, especially vital in the face of ongoing financial cutbacks to local services.

Big thanks to our Area Activator, Steven, for organising everything so smoothly.

If you’re new to GoodGym, we’d love for you to join us. Our sessions are open, inclusive, and friendly, and out community partners need more helping hands.

Let’s keep making a difference, one step, one mission!

See you soon, Emdad (TaskForce member)