Produced in partnership with Funzing.
New Year's resolutions don't have to be a chore. Forget gym subscriptions and slimming clubs — start on the road to a happier, healthier 2016 you with archery, baking, sewing or even trampolining. Funzing makes those resolutions easier to keep with fun, informal events hosted by local Londoners.
Learn how to hit the target with an archery class
Unleash your inner Robin Hood with archery classes in London Bridge led by Heidi and the experienced shooters from the 2020 Archery Team. You'll learn how to shoot safely and accurately and at the end of the session you'll be able to put those skills into practice with a mini competition.
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Find your inner goddess in a moonlight gathering
Seek a higher consciousness away from the distractions of the back to work grind at the Moonlight Goddess Gathering. Leave your electronic devices and preconceptions at the door and enter a sacred space where a group of women will go in search of their inner goddess through astrology, herbalism, yoga, and other mystical methods.
Move those hips and take up salsa dancing
Why bother with repetitive circuits in the gym when you can get fit and have a ton of fun in a sociable environment through the medium of salsa. Get your dancing shoes on and head to Leicester Square where salsa expert Nadia will show you how to tame those two left feet.
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Become the next Paul Hollywood and learn to bake
If you're more passionate about watching baking programmes than actually baking, here's the course for. Take your apron along to one of Lucy's cookery classes, and she'll give you all the encouragement and advice you need. Courses range from cupcakes, to gluten-free cooking. You'll be hosting your own bakeoff in no time.
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Gain a useful new skill and learn to sew
Ever fancied making your own clothes? This workshop in Seven Sisters led by qualified fashion lecturer Craig and the Fashion Box crew will teach how to make the perfect sleeves and how to get the fit just right. All machines and fabrics are provided and you'll get to take your samples home.
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Strut with confidence and design your own shoes
Amanda set up I Can Make Shoes in east London five years ago and it has since attracted budding shoe makers from all over the world. If you've ever wondered what goes into making your footwear check out her informal sessions where you'll learn all the techniques for designing your own. This could be the start of a new career as designer of fabulous footwear.
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Upgrade your photography skills
The prominence of smart phones means we all like to think of ourselves as budding photographers. But wouldn't it be great to hone those skills to create properly professional photographs? Becky from Foto Ruta will combine interactive tuition with a London neighbourhood so you can put those skills into practice. The session ends with a feedback session over a glass of wine.
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Knit yourself a winter warmer
Riannon from I MAKE KNOTS is teaching the knitting ropes just in time for winter. Head along to her knitting session in King's Cross where you'll be making super cosy slippers to snuggle up in using 100% merino wool.
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Unleash the rebel in you with spray paint
Join Gary and the creative team at Alternative London for a walking tour around east London which encompasses the best graffiti spots and the history of the art form. You'll even have the opportunity to unleash your inner Banksy with a spray session.
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Get fit by bouncing
This could be the year you get fit and healthy with the aid of little else but a trampoline. Don't mock it before you've tried it. Not only will you have a laugh but this low impact, high energy workout is a great way to burn calories. Led by Andrea whose jumping expertise comes all the way from the Czech Republic.
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Bemused by poker? Learn the rules
Poker enthusiast Peter will teach you the tricks of the trade at this session in White City. Perfect your poker face and learn the key concepts and rules before applying them to real poker sessions.
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Refine your juniper expertise with gin tasting
After working hard at all those resolutions it's only fair to treat yourself. Fans of gin can indulge their tastebuds at this tasting workshop led by connoisseur Julia in Greenwich. Spend the evening brushing up on your knowledge of the beverage while trying six different gins from around the world matched with canapés.
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Recreate that scene in Ghost and try pottery
If you're good with your hands your forte might very well be pottery. Try out pottery classes led by Vini, who will begin the session with an informal chat on the history of pottery before you get your hands dirty. After a relaxing afternoon you'll end up with your own pot and the knowhow to continue moulding.
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Arrange beautiful blooms with a floristry workshop
Let professional florist Naz brighten up these drab winter days with her course which teaches you the art of creating beautiful bouquets and symmetrical table vase centre pieces. Once you've mastered the technique you won't have to shell out a fortune next time a wedding rolls around.
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Find more London experiences with Funzing through their website, Twitter and Facebook page.
Feeling inspired to share your hobby, professional skill or talent? You can become a host and promote your own event on Funzing — find out more on their website.
