Tucked into the Fall 2014 Program Guide from the Reston Community Center are an array of super-cool courses that we at Modern Reston can’t wait to sign up for. Some of these classes reflect current trends and some are more artisanal in nature. Here are some of our favorites:
Cleaning product photo from The Sprouting Seed. Kombucha photo from The Kitchn.
1. ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING (It’s time to let go of the Lysol and embrace the powers of vinegar.)
This workshop will teach students why it is a good idea to reduce the use of harsh, sometimes toxic, cleansers in the home. Students will learn how to make safe and environmentally friendly household cleansers, which is quick and easy to do and very economical. Attendees are encouraged to purchase Clean House, Clean Planet by Karen Logan and bring it to the workshop. This program is jointly produced by RCC, RA, and Sustainable Reston.
2. FERMENTATION WORKSHOP (For Kombucha and kimchi lovers)
Fermentation is a method of food preservation that dates back thousands of years and is used throughout the world. Fermented food is full of “good bacteria” and is very healthy. In this hands-on workshop, you will learn the science (and the art) of fermentation. Students will prepare a simple dish, such as sauerkraut, to take home. This program is jointly produced by RCC, RA, and Sustainable Reston.
3. DEEP WATER MANIA (Think SoulCycle but underwater)
Run and bicycle in deep water to achieve a great cardiovascular workout. Equipment will be furnished to ensure an excellent cross training experience. Deep Water Mania will provide the benefits of a land-based program, but without the pounding and stress on the joints, tendons, and ligaments.
4. HISTORICAL EUROPEAN SWORDSMANSHIP (Hells yeah! I will be signing up for this with my daughter as soon as she is old enough.)
Historical European Swordsmanship is a popular new martial arts discipline, one that brings a historical perspective to physical training and self-defense. Virginia Academy of Fencing (VAF) will teach the history of swordsmanship and the basics of footwork and body mechanics using safe sword simulators (bamboo shinai). Students are introduced to the basic guards and strikes of fencing with two handed swords and rapier simulators. Minimum age for enrollment is 9 years; class is designed for all ages and skill levels so teenage and adult participation is encouraged.
5. MASALA BHANGRA (For those who have always dreamed of being the lead in a Bollywood movie.)
Get a full body workout while learning Bollywood and Bhangra dance forms. This unique dance fitness program, for both men and women, mixes cardiovascular exercise with fun and is suitable for all fitness levels.
Photo from Reston Community Center.
6. RSC COMEDY BOOTCAMP (What could be more fun than channeling Steve Carrell or Tina Fey?)
Do you want to learn to be funnier? Then the RSC Comedy Boot Camp is the place for you! With an emphasis on improvisation and physical comedy, the workshop reflects the Reduced Shakespeare Company’s ethos – fast, fun and physical comedy. It’s sure to provide an exciting hour and a half of hands-on experience with the original “bad boys of abridgment.”
Photo from The Art of Bex Glover.
7. REMIXED MEDIA: URBAN FUSION 101 (The coolest sounding class in the whole catalog — next to Historical European Swordsmanship, of course. Straight-up graffiti art. You could be the next Shepard Fairey or Banksy.)
Toss inhibitions aside and enter an artistic playground where things aren’t always what they seem. Listen to your intuition, and bust through creative road blocks as you turn overlooked everyday objects into art tools that add rich, textured layers to your canvas, paper or fabric. Learn spraying, stenciling and lettering techniques of graffiti fusion to create original collage paintings with an inspirational urban vibe.
For more information including times and dates see check out the RCC Program Guide. To register for a class visit the RCC website.
What is your experience with RCC classes?