GoodGym looking to get up and running

An initiative that combines exercise with community improvement could be in Cardiff, if a new campaign is successful.

Run to benefit your community: GoodGym could be rolling into Cardiff soon

GoodGym combats social isolation by pairing runners with an older, isolated individual. Members run to see their partner, check they’re okay, then run home. Similarly, community runs see a team of joggers help out with projects to improve the local area.

Founder, Ivo Gormley, wanted to redirect the energy wasted in gyms by combining exertion with cause. Many people cite a lack of time or energy to volunteer, but as Hackney branch member, Damien Clarkson, says, “GoodGym is great because it enables a person to combine healthy living with community work and giving something back.”

A campaign has started to get GoodGym to Cardiff. To get involved head to the website.

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jS7tPx2vZRU[/youtube]

Photos and video reproduced with the permission of Ivo Gormley

An isolated problem?

GoodGym is the brainchild of Ivo Gormley who got the idea when he started combining running with his weekly visit to housebound family friend.

Observing that our society is becoming increasingly atomised, Gormley created GoodGym to help build cities that we really want to be in, cities where no-one is left on their own.

In 2009 the first branch was set up in Tower Hamlets. As GoodGym prepares to celebrate its 5^th birthday, there are currently seven branches across the country with more on the horizon.

Initially set up to combat social isolation, GoodGym now also helps out with community improvement projects. You can see some of the recent community runs here. Runners can also be set individual missions, such as changing a light bulb for someone.

GoodGym fights social isolation amongst the elderly

GoodGym pairs runners with isolated older people

Everyone is welcome, regardless of age or athletic ability. If you have fitness goals and want to help others, GoodGym is the place for you.

At the time of writing, the potential Cardiff branch currently needs two more founder members before its wheels can start turning. If you want to get involved in any way, shape or form, you should head to proposal page to see how you can help.

For more information about GoodGym you can follow @goodgym, head to Facebook or visit the website.

Concerned that an elderly friend or relative is becoming increasingly lonely? Read Independent Age’s top ten tips for avoiding isolation, or for further information on coping with loneliness take a look at Mind’s website.

For more on isolation have a read of George Monbiot’s excellent article about the age of loneliness. Independent Age’s report on the problem is also of note.

You should check out Gormley’s excellent short film, The Runners. Follow him @ivoivo.

community action, good causes, GoodGym, loneliness, running, social isolation