GoodGym Barnet: Supporting Citizens Advice Barnet Through Fitness, Fun, and Community Spirit

This week, GoodGym Barnet came together for a festive group run with a purpose – supporting the Citizens Advice Bureau Barnet by delivering fundraising leaflets in East Finchley. Citizens Advice provides crucial support to underprivileged and vulnerable people, protecting their rights and ensuring they can access essential services. Many don’t realise that this vital organisation relies on grants, just like any other charity, to continue its work.

We were delighted to have two representatives from Citizens Advice join us at the start of our run outside our new meeting point,( thank you Louise The White Lion Pub. They explained why fundraising is so important and how our leaflet drop could make a real difference in reaching local residents. This was a repeat of our efforts last year, which resulted in a positive fundraising response—and we were more than happy to give it another go.

As we warmed up outside the pub, there was a great buzz as we shared our Christmas plans—everything from wild pond swims to binge-watching festive TV favourites. With everyone ready, we split into teams and set off into the cool December air, delivering over 300 leaflets through the streets of East Finchley.

While some of us ran in “Indian file” formation (always a great way to keep the energy up!), Dave and Ben led the walking team, ensuring every doorstep was reached. Leaflet drops always come with a few quirks—admiring local homes, cautiously listening for barking dogs, and navigating slippery garden paths. Safety first, as always!

The group smashed it, working swiftly and efficiently as two teams covered both sides of each street. Before long, we were back at The White Lion, where the walkers had already grabbed a well-earned drink. The pub was alive with atmosphere, and it was brilliant to unwind together over food and drinks. We were joined by some special guests, including Donald from Finchley Pastures and Alison and Warwick from Stephens House and Gardens—key community figures who, like us, care deeply about bringing people together.

This run was a fantastic way to round off a year of supporting great causes through fitness and teamwork. In 2024 alone, GoodGym Barnet has delivered foodbank donations, supported local charities, and helped countless community groups while building friendships, staying active, and having a lot of fun along the way.

Looking ahead to 2025, we hope to do even more to support local people and grow our community connections—but we need YOU to get involved. Whether you join us once or twice a month, you’ll have fun, get fit, and make a real difference. Bring a friend, drag along a colleague, or, as we like to joke, “blindfold and kidnap them”—whatever it takes, just come and join us in 2025!

We promise you’ll leave with a smile, a sense of accomplishment, and maybe a pint at the end. Here’s to another year of running, walking, cycling, and helping our community thrive.