Maple Valley Parks and Recreation classes and programs beginning in 2011

Maple Valley Parks and Recreation will be offering several new classes starting in early 2011.

Maple Valley Parks and Recreation will be offering several new classes starting in early 2011. The expanded lineup is featured in the recently distributed Winter Recreation Guide and is also available online at www.maplevalleywa.gov.

There are several new classes to consider from Zumba and Tai Chi to learning art and cultures from around the world. Also new in 2011 are two classes designed just for parents and their young children. Below are all the highlights.

  • Mommy/Daddy and Me Zumbatomic: The class is a fun and healthy program designed for the preschooler ages 3 to 6 that allows the parent to play, dance and interact with their child. This class is filled with fitness dances, fun motivational games and music with multi-cultural rhythms.  All classes are taught to cultivate individuality, creativity and confidence as well as develop and enhance the bond between parent and child through fitness. The first class will be Jan. 10 at Lake Wilderness Lodge.

    All of the Monday classes are offered from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Cost is $8 per class.

  • Mommy and Me Art Class: The class is tailored for preschoolers and their adults. This fun and messy class will feature introduction into the basic elements of art, colors and styles. Students will create art pieces each class while exploring and learning through creativity and enthusiasm. Dads and grandparents are welcome. Classes begin Jan 11 at Lake Wilderness Lodge. Fee: $75 per session or drop-in for $12, bring an additional sibling for $7.50.
  • Youth Karate Class – ages 6-15: Learn basic techniques, self-defense, and kata while gaining self-confidence, self-esteem and discipline. Learn how to cope with and avoid potential dangerous situations, abductors and bullies. Location is Lake Wilderness Lodge and the session fee is $99 for the Monday/Wednesday classes. Session begins Jan. 3.

    Beginner 5:20-6 p.m., intermediate 6:05-6:p.m. and advanced 7-7:55 p.m.

  • Art History for Home schoolers: The class will be great fun and a perfect way to get an introduction to art history. Learn about Matisse, Picasso and Van Gogh then create art inspired by them. Mediums include paint, oil pastels and paper. This class is for 6 to 10 year olds and will be offered at Lake Wilderness Lodge on Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Fee is $90 per session and begins Jan. 11.
  • Adult Coed Dodgeball League is coming to Maple Valley in January Check online at www.maplevalleywa.gov or the recreation guide for the schedule, league fees and rules
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  • Chinese Culture and Life Class: Learn about Chinese culture and life from an instructor who has lived and experienced the country first hand. Learn about differences in culture, differences in thought patterns, and how China became the global power that it is today. Learn about China without going back to school. Offered at Lake Wilderness Lodge Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Instructor is CeCe Gao. Check online at www.maplevalleywa.gov. or the recreation guide for session fees. Drop-in fee is $15 per class
  • Conversational Chinese Class: This course is designed for those with personal or business reasons to travel to China. Communicate effectively using proper grammar and technique. Students will learn the phonetic alphabet, pronunciation, tones, vocabularies, negotiation techniques and dialogue for shopping.

    Offered at Lake Wilderness Lodge on Monday and Wednesday from 7:10 to 8:40 p.m. Instructor is CeCe Gao. Check online at www.maplevalleywa.gov. or the recreation guide for session fees. Drop-in fee is $15 per class

  • New Adult Zumba Classes: Every class is a party you will want to attend. Fusing Latin rhythm and chart topping hit songs with easy to follow moves creates an amazing, energetic workout. Come experience an hour of exciting calorie-burning, body energizing movements at Lake Wilderness Lodge on Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting Jan. 4. Classes are from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fees are just $5 per class or drop-in for only $6.
  • Tai-Chi Classes: The traditional Chinese exercise of Tai Chi provides for the development of basic skills and techniques that lead toward an integration of the mind-body-spirit trilogy. The early emphasis will be placed on establishing a solid foundation of fundamentals and then as students develop and learn, higher levels will be introduced in future classes.  Classes will be offered starting in January at Lake Wilderness Lodge and are currently open for registration.
  • Tai-Chi for all: Learn how to use Tai Chi to restore your balance, increases your muscle and bone strength and increase flexibility.

    Chair Tai-Chi Classes: Low impact class allows you to workout at your own pace, off of your feet. Seniors, expecting mothers will love this exercise opportunity.

    Tai Chi for Seniors: The 45 minute classes are for people age 50 and over. Learn moves to help improve health and flexibility.

  • Yoga – All Levels: Develop postural awareness, strength, flexibility and deep relaxation. Practice fundamental actions in poses for new and continuing students by taking one of the several classes offered in 2011. Check online at www.maplevalleywa.gov. or the recreation guide for complete details and listings.
  • Adult Karate Classes: Karate is for everyone. Come join Sensei John Robinson at the Lake Wilderness Lodge. Gain confidence and self-esteem while improving your physical fitness, body composition, and self-defense skills. This small class features personal attention and beginners (women or men) are welcome. Classes are offered Monday and Wednesday from 7:55 to 9:00 p.m. and the session fee is $109.
  • Stroller Strides: Workout with your child and use your stroller. Class focuses on cardio and body toning. Classes are held indoors November-March. Register and information online at www.strollerstrides.net. Winter location indoors at the Lake Wilderness Lodge.
  • Women’s Self Defense Workshop: The “Best Defenses for Women” is the proven training program offered through Pacific Martial Arts Academy. This popular workshop will focus on understanding and prevention, avoidance and de-escalation, and physical resistance.  Mothers and daughters over 12 encouraged to attend together. Workshop attendance is very limited due to the personal attention received so register early. Class is 6-9 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Lake Wilderness Lodge and the fee is $39.