Who says 'you can't teach an old dog new tricks?' There's no time like the present to learn golf, a language or a new skill by taking classes in Los Angeles. The sky is the limit, but here are just a few ideas to get your mind humming.
Computer Skills
Photo: Justin Sullivan/Staff/Getty Images
If you use a Mac, you may or may not be surprised to discover that the Apple Retail Store offers a host of free hour-long workshops on everything from using your computer for business, to composing songs in Garage Band. They also offer free workshops for kids aged six through 13.
Getting started:
Apples Stores in Los Angeles:
The Grove
189 The Grove Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
The Beverly Center
8500 Beverly Blvd., Suite #656
Los Angeles, CA 90048
The Americana at Brand
877 Americana Way
Glendale, CA 91210
Glendale Galleria
2126 Glendale Galleria
Glendale, CA 91210
Century City
10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Dance Lessons
Photo Courtesy of USA Dance 2010 National DanceSport Championships
Don't just sit there watching great ballroom dancing on popular TV shows. This is one tune you can't afford to sit out. Consider taking dance lessons at one of the many studios in LA where you can learn ballroom styles, jazz, funk, salsa and swing dancing.
Getting started:
Yoga Classes
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There's a reason this ancient Indian balancing practice continues to be so popular in LA and elsewhere: it relaxes people. There are many styles to consider when choosing yoga classes in LA: Hatha, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Kundalini, Bikram and Iyengar. Some are more physical; others focus more on consciousness expansion.
Getting started:
Cooking Classes and Wine Seminars
Impress your dinner guests and dates. Learn to be a wine connoisseur and a fantastic chef. Beyond independent cooking classes (taking place at alternating venues) there are also restaurants that frequently host cooking series and wine tastings and classes.
Getting Started:
Music Lessons
Photo © Sessions Songwriting for Kids!™
If you (or your kid) excel at Rock Band, you might want to consider exploring that hidden musical talent. There are professional schools like Musicians Institute depending on how serious you want to get. Guitar shops like McCabe's Guitar Shop seem to be tapped into the best private instructors. And of course there are instructors who focus on music lessons and even songwriting classes for kids.
Getting Started:
Comedy Classes and Workshops
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Shows like Last Comic Standing have brought the craft behind comedy to the masses. It's your turn to be laugh-out-loud funny. Apart from getting inspiration at numerous hot spots like The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory, such venues sometimes host workshops as well.
Getting Started:
Sports Lessons and Classes
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You've probably told yourself that one day you're going to play tennis, surf or golf. When is that day coming? Now is the time to prime yourself into the next Rafael Nadal or Michelle Wie. Before embarking on lessons (many of which are available through golf courses, tennis court rental spots and surf shops), start with a little self-study. Get out there and check out surf spots. Go to the gym. Start jogging and training for your new hobby.
Getting Started:
Learn a New Language
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We live in El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora La Reina de Los Angeles. Spanish is a common second language. It's never too late to learn to speak it. Or perhaps you've always wanted to learn French or Mandarin Chinese. LA is a multicultural city so you're sure to find others with whom to practice speaking your new language.
Getting Started:
Alliance Francaise of Los Angeles
Italian Cultural Institute of LA
