A few GoodGym members came together to do online yoga

Yoga talk

Check out this study that highlights the connection between mind and body.

https://thehealthsciencesacademy.org/health-tips/strengthen-your-muscles-by-thought-alone/

The connection between mental training and yoga can be seen in how yoga emphasizes mindfulness and intentional muscle engagement. In yoga, visualizing movements and focusing on muscle activation, even in static poses, may lead to physical benefits similar to the mental training studies. The mental focus in yoga helps create a "mind-muscle connection," potentially enhancing strength, flexibility, and muscle control, as seen in research where mental exercises alone improved muscle strength. Yoga’s meditative aspect reinforces this connection, blending physical and mental conditioning.

a few people came online to do yoga.

Yoga talk

One of the less obvious benefits of yoga is its impact on proprioception—our ability to sense where our body is in space. Many people don’t realize how much this improves balance, coordination, and even reaction times in daily life. Regular practice also strengthens the vagus nerve, which helps regulate stress, digestion, and heart rate, promoting a deep sense of calm. Another surprising benefit is how yoga can retrain habitual movement patterns, preventing injuries by encouraging more efficient and mindful movement. Over time, these subtle changes make a big difference, not just on the mat but in everything from walking to lifting and even sitting more comfortably.

A few GoodGym people came online to do yoga.

Yoga talk

Don’t take your health for granted. Don’t take your body for granted. Do something today that communicates to your body that you desire to care for it. Tomorrow is not promised.” — Jada Pinkett Smith

A few GoodGym Barnet members decided to clean up their local Streets as part of the Goodgym January challenge. well done for all your efforts and thanks for pulling together to help hit our January targets. awesome effort!

On Sunday, 19th January, five brilliant members of GoodGym Barnet rolled up their sleeves to support a fantastic local project at Lyttelton Playing Fields. With cool but dry January weather on our side, we got involved in planting a hedgerow, creating a beautiful willow tunnel, and spreading mulch to protect other trees in the area.

A Buzz of Activity

When I arrived, the site was a hive of activity, with volunteers hard at work. Danieland Phil were already busy planting whips for the new hedgerow. Daniel showed me the intriguing technique—using a shovel to lever open a small space, just enough to plant each whip. This hedgerow will not only define a corner of the playing fields but also provide a valuable habitat for local wildlife. It’s a wonderful ecological boost for the area!

True to GoodGym tradition, Daniel had cycled to the event, adding a touch of sustainable transport to the day’s efforts.

Willow Wonders and Mulch Magic

Two of our members Beattieand Cherianturned their attention to the willow tunnel—a striking structure that took shape beautifully. By the time we finished, it was a true piece of living art that will surely delight children (and the young at heart!) for years to come.

Meanwhile, my personal highlight was tackling the mulch pile. Digging, lifting, and spreading mulch over muddy areas and planting zones was an excellent workout and immensely satisfying. It’s always rewarding to see the immediate impact of your efforts on the environment.

A Warm Welcome and a Job Well Done

The organisers had kindly arranged tea and cake at the nearby bowls club, where the turnout was so impressive they could hardly believe it. With so many hands on deck, we managed to complete the work efficiently and in great spirits.

Join Us Next Time!

This project at Lyttelton Playing Fields showcased the heart of GoodGym—combining fitness, community, and fun. Whether you’re planting trees, digging mulch, or just enjoying a well-earned slice of cake, GoodGym offers the perfect way to give back while staying active.

A huge thanks to everyone who came along and to the organisers for hosting such an enjoyable event. We hope to return soon to continue supporting this wonderful community space.

If you’d like to get involved in future GoodGym activities, come join us—you’ll be part of a group that makes a real difference while having a great time. See you next time!