Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
Gift Ideas for Her to Suit Every Special Occasion
By Tiffany Fung
Explore unique and thoughtful gift ideas for her. From romantic jewellery classes to relaxing perfumery courses, find the perfect present she'llExplore unique and thoughtful gift ideas for her. From romantic jewellery classes to relaxing perfumery courses, find the perfect present she'll adore. ...
Make Turkish Mosaic Lamps with Art Masterclass
By Laine Fullerton
From Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to their colourful and cosy studios across Australia, meet the business using Turkish mosaic-making as a form of culturalFrom Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar to their colourful and cosy studios across Australia, meet the business using Turkish mosaic-making as a form of cultural connection. ...
Fantastic 10 Year Anniversary Gift Ideas in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
Celebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour conCelebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour connection. ...
3 Team Building Exercises to Help Bond Your Team
By Annie Symmonds
Stop searching for cliche team building exercises and instead, find thousands of incredible team building activities in Australia to help build strongerStop searching for cliche team building exercises and instead, find thousands of incredible team building activities in Australia to help build stronger relationships! ...
Unique Gift Experiences for Him (Or Her) in Sydney
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Get him what he really wants with these 5 experience gifts for him in Sydney. From leather to fire and broken ceramics, these gift ideas will blowGet him what he really wants with these 5 experience gifts for him in Sydney. From leather to fire and broken ceramics, these gift ideas will blow his mind. ...
Best Christmas Gifts for Mum, According to Real Mums
By Courtenay Turner
Discover the best Christmas gifts for mums, according to real Aussie mums. Treat her to a pottery class, floristry workshop or fun foodie experiDiscover the best Christmas gifts for mums, according to real Aussie mums. Treat her to a pottery class, floristry workshop or fun foodie experience. ...
6 Reasons to Try Vegan Cooking Classes in Sydney
By Jana Lepojevic
Explore vibrant plant-based cuisine with vegan cooking classes in Sydney. Learn delicious recipes, promote wellness and embrace sustainability.
5 Best Date Ideas to Help Spark the Romance
By Tiffany Fung
Ignite the romance in your relationship with one of our unique date night ideas in Australia, from spinning clay on a wheel to making custom DIYIgnite the romance in your relationship with one of our unique date night ideas in Australia, from spinning clay on a wheel to making custom DIY jewellery. ...
Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Dads Who Want Nothing
By Tiffany Fung
Do you need the perfect gift for a dad who wants for nothing? Show your thoughtfulness with an experience gift that supports his hobbies and intDo you need the perfect gift for a dad who wants for nothing? Show your thoughtfulness with an experience gift that supports his hobbies and interests! ...
Explore Your Inner Artist with Paint and Sip Classes in Australia
By ClassBento Team
Channel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experienceChannel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experience to join! ...
Holiday Favourites: Pressy Sankaran, General Manager USA
By ClassBento Team
Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!
Craft Ideas for Adults to Improve Mental Wellbeing
By Jana Lepojevic
Need a creative outlet that’s good for the soul? Dive into these mental-health boosting craft ideas and discover how crafting can be your new go-toNeed a creative outlet that’s good for the soul? Dive into these mental-health boosting craft ideas and discover how crafting can be your new go-to for relaxation! ...
To Spice or Not to Spice: Can Chilli Improve Your Health
By Susana Aguilera
Find out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you with a focus on spicy cuiFind out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you with a focus on spicy cuisine. ...
Everything You Need to Know About Macarons
By John Tabari
Learn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. WeLearn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. We imagine that this quintessentially French patisserie could only be the work of a French pastry chef. But, according to historic records, macarons date back to 8th century AD. With the first recorded instances baked in Venetian monasteries. The macaron came to France with Catherine de Medici, when she married King Henry II in 1533. Her pastry chefs continued to make these meringue-based biscuits for her when she moved over to Paris. According to one controversial Encyclopedia entry, it was two French nuns who invented macarons. The text claims that the dessert gained popularity when two Sisters baked and sold macarons during the French Revolution. They used their venture as a way to fund their housing while they were seeking asylum. Yet, those macarons were not the ganache-filled treat we know today. Those macarons were two meringue cookies atop one another, without any filling. As with the invention of the original macaron, there is a discrepancy about how the modern version was invented as well. Two French chefs claimed to have invented the sweet fillings; Claude Gebert and Pierre Desfontaines of Ladurée. They are both credited with having introduced a third layer to the sweet in the early 20th century. French or Italian Recipe? Although macarons originated in Italy, some 17th century Italian cookbooks include ‘French Macaron’ recipes. In any case, there are two distinct methods to making macarons; the Italian way and the French way. The difference comes from the meringue part of the recipe; specifically when to add sugar. The French recipe calls for egg whites to be whisked into meringue shapes before powdered sugar is folded in. The Italian method includes adding sugar to raw egg whites to make a paste. Today, the accepted method to bake macarons is closest to the French recipe. Ladurée Although macarons didn’t originate in France, we have a French patisserie to thank for their lasting popularity. Ladurée has been around for over 150 years. It was founded in 1862 by writer, Louis-Ernest Ladurée. The original location burned down during a late 19th Century uprising, so a second popped up. It was at the second location that the founder’s second cousin, Pierre Desfontaines, created the ‘Double decker’ macaron. This refers to two traditional macarons on top of one another bound together by a creamy, usually ganache or buttercream, filling. The steady increase of these stores outside France attests to how popular the macaron has become. Ladurée is now present in almost 20 cities in Europe and many countries across four more continents. International Interpretations Keeping with the tradition of adapting the original recipe, may other cultures now produce their own versions of the dessert. In the States, the composition of macarons remains the same, but the flavours are much more experimental. In France, you will find classics such as pistachio, raspberry and chocolate. In the US you can buy peanut butter and jelly, pumpkin, cheesecake and candy corn. In Southeast Asian countries, recipes substitute traditional ingredients for local variations. Almond flour is substituted for peanut flower in Japan. Taiwanese recipes incorporate red beans and South Korean recipes use green tea leaves or powder. Discover the best types of macarons here. Pop Culture In Japan, where food can be cute, the macaron is a popular print for fashion items, stationery and even bedding. Simple and colourful, they decorate clothing and accessories along with other foods such as fruit and sushi. In their attempts to create a more upscale image, McDonalds’ McCafe branches sell macarons in France and Australia. Interestingly, they are produced by a company owned by the same holding company as Ladurée. Yet, they don’t use the same recipe; McDonalds has a more limited flavour menu than Ladurée, offering six classic flavours. Ladurée, whilst not as experimental as some US macaron producers, does offer a wider range of French favourites. These include speculoos, rose and salted caramel. ...
5 Creative Date Activities to Bring Couples Closer Together
By Jana Lepojevic
Spice up your love life with our creative date ideas! From pottery to cooking, these fun activities will help you connect, laugh and make meaningfulSpice up your love life with our creative date ideas! From pottery to cooking, these fun activities will help you connect, laugh and make meaningful memories together. ...
Budget-Friendly Gifts for Mum from Daughter
By Jana Lepojevic
From cooking to art classes, find budget-friendly gifts for Mum from a daughter across Australia, and strengthen your bond without breaking the bankFrom cooking to art classes, find budget-friendly gifts for Mum from a daughter across Australia, and strengthen your bond without breaking the bank in 2023. ...
Make Personalised Gifts for Her with These 7 Craft Classes
By Jana Lepojevic
Discover the art of crafting personalised gifts for her with these 7 unique craft classes. Create cherished memories and surprise her with thoughtful,Discover the art of crafting personalised gifts for her with these 7 unique craft classes. Create cherished memories and surprise her with thoughtful, handcrafted treasures. ...
Thoughtful Experience Gift Ideas to Try Together
By Tiffany Fung
If you’re wondering what to get for your loved ones in 2025, try our thoughtful experience gifts in Australia—guaranteed to put a smile on theirIf you’re wondering what to get for your loved ones in 2025, try our thoughtful experience gifts in Australia—guaranteed to put a smile on their face. ...
Need a Boost? This Creative Summer Checklist Can Help
By Kellie Maloney
Did you know that creative activities are some of the best ways to boost your wellbeing? In fact, staying social, finding a routine and keeping activeDid you know that creative activities are some of the best ways to boost your wellbeing? In fact, staying social, finding a routine and keeping active come highly recommended by health experts. Start your year off right with our to-do list of summer workshops and experiences and you’ll see for yourself! Mid-January: Stay social with cocktail classes After the adrenaline rush of Christmas and New Year’s, it’s only natural to start feeling a little social burnout by mid-January. You’re not alone! nf!The Black Dog Institute has some top tips for combating this, like focusing on what you enjoy, being in the moment and having fun. Luckily for you, we think we have a summertime experience that ticks all those boxes. Literally shake it out and get reinvigorated in January with cocktail classes. From zesty margaritas to sweet Pina Coladas, learning how to make cocktails with the people you love is the perfect summer activity for keeping spirits high! Late January: Get crafty with the whole family You might not expect that among all the excitement of the school holidays, this time of year can actually be quite challenging for young people. According to nf!Headspace, kids and teens may be left feeling “bored, unsupported, upset and sometimes anxious” during this period, as they’re out of their usual routine and not seeing their friends as much. As the school holidays come to a close, there’s no better time to get the kids (and bigger kids) together over a fun and crafty activity so they can keep exploring and stay socially active. The key is to find something simple that everyone can enjoy like a terrarium workshop or a polymer clay class. These crafty experiences are a fantastic way to check in and bond with the family beyond Christmas Day and make everyone feel special and included. Early February: Slow down with a mindful experience Make time in February to slow down, embrace the moment and check in with yourself as summer starts to wrap up. This is a great time to think about new habits you want to make for yourself, as nf!“the key to great health is in positive habit formation.” Why not try something different this year and pick up a new mindful hobby or skill? Unwind at the potter’s wheel and make ceramics, twist and tie cord into a macrame wall hanging or plant hanger or let loose with colourful fluid art. Mid-February: Connect and save at a Valentine’s Day cooking class We hear you, you want to do Valentine’s Day differently this year. As you recover from holiday spending, transform the usual dinner and movie combo into a date night activity with added value. This is where cooking classes come in. Not only will you learn lifelong cooking skills with an experienced chef but you’ll also get to sit down and enjoy your handmade meal together—it’s like two presents for the price of one! Turn up the heat with a sizzling BBQ class or knead fresh dough together at a pasta making class. Late February: Prep for autumn with a new hobby We know what you’re thinking—how do I stop the post-summer blues from sinking in? Well, the answer is simple, be kinder to yourself and nf!adopt smaller, more achievable goals that will make you feel productive and accomplished. It’s actually very normal to feel a bit down after the holiday period and according to research from nf!Deakin University, it’s actually a sign of good health. To stay motivated, keep the warm and fuzzy feelings you associate with summer alive by trying your hand at a new hobby. Piece together mosaics, arrange flowers into bouquets or melt and pour fragrant candles. You might not find your creative calling right away, but you’ll be keeping your mind stimulated and fostering your creativity as the weather gets cooler. ...
Stepping Out to Fight Dementia
By Kellie Maloney
On May 22nd 2022, the ClassBento team stepped up to beat dementia at the Sydney Memory Walk And Jog.
Unwind with Your Workmates at Paint and Sip
By ClassBento Team
Invest in the wellness of your workplace and get your colleagues bonding and connecting with each other at paint and sip classes in Australia.
Holiday Favourites: Kellie Maloney, Content Writer
By Courtenay Turner
Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!
Sustainable Stocking Filler Alternatives
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for something a little less wasteful to stuff in your stockings this Christmas day? Read on for our guide to the best experience gifts inLooking for something a little less wasteful to stuff in your stockings this Christmas day? Read on for our guide to the best experience gifts in Australia. ...
9 Crafty Experience Gift Cards for Teens
By Kellie Maloney
Check out our round-up of crafty experience gift cards for teens across Australia. From flower arranging to jewellery making, there's something forCheck out our round-up of crafty experience gift cards for teens across Australia. From flower arranging to jewellery making, there's something for everyone! ...
Fun Corporate Team Building Activities That Promote Employee Wellbeing
By Laine Fullerton
Spice up your team dynamics with these six engaging corporate team building activities in Melbourne. Foster collaboration and boost employee welSpice up your team dynamics with these six engaging corporate team building activities in Melbourne. Foster collaboration and boost employee wellbeing! ...
6 Unique Presents for Dads Who Love DIY
By Kellie Maloney
Find the best gifts for dads who love DIY! Explore classes in glassblowing, woodworking, knitting, and more. Perfect for Father's Day and specialFind the best gifts for dads who love DIY! Explore classes in glassblowing, woodworking, knitting, and more. Perfect for Father's Day and special occasions. ...
Break Tradition with 10 Unique Ideas for Christmas Parties
By Annie Symmonds
Think outside the box in 2023 with these unique Christmas party ideas to help your team bond and reconnect.
Birthday Party Ideas for Wellness Warriors
By Annie Symmonds
Discover brilliant birthday party ideas for wellness warriors across Australia and treat them to an unforgettable celebration in 2025!
Make Your Own T-shirt with Screen Printing
By ClassBento Team
As a teenager in a primary school art class, I had no idea what screen printing was, but from what I could see of the press in front of me, it wasAs a teenager in a primary school art class, I had no idea what screen printing was, but from what I could see of the press in front of me, it was going to be complicated. The contraption had several limbs branching out at different angles like some kind of advanced, spinning robot ready for take-off. The metal base was dripping with ink in various bright colors. “I’m going to use that?” I asked my teacher. She shook her head with a smile, “That’s a little advanced for you. Don’t worry, we’re going to be working with individual screens for now. It’s still a little complicated, but you’ll have fun.” Over the next two weeks, I spent hours designing, cutting, aligning, and squeegee-ing on various types of paper and fabric. There were times when I wanted to pull my hair out and times that I was ecstatic with the outcome, but usually I was just extremely focused on my work. By the time I had completed my first project - a tricolor work that would probably make Andy Warhol cringe - I was hooked on the hobby. I couldn’t wait to show off my freshly-pressed artwork to friends and family. I actually started to make my own t shirts with screen printing!! “Just wait until you learn more about the history,” my art teacher prodded. Indeed, screen printing has an interesting tale to tell. The art form has a surprisingly long history, with Polynesian Island natives producing the first images by seeping ink through banana leaves over 1500 years ago (1). Similar techniques popped up in China and Japan, where they developed in sophistication and skill. At the 1853 World’s Fair, Japanese goods were lauded by European and American artists, who sought to learn and commercialize the art form. Though screen printing wouldn’t show up in Australia until the second World War, other forms of printing have always been a crucial part of the country’s history (2). For instance, a humble little device came over with the first fleet in 1788, though it was incomprehensible to all crew members. Once the newcomers learned how to use the press, printing exploded in the form of newspapers and informative books on exploration of the continent. This type of production was usually relegated to the commercial sector, and wouldn’t become popular as an art form until the 1970’s, as a result of Andy Warhol’s explosive entrance into the art world. As an American artist, Warhol’s most famous works depict American popular culture, such as his iconic renditions of actress Marilyn Monroe in the 1960’s. As a result of his pioneering endeavors, artists all over the world began experimenting with silk screens. The craft became particularly popular in Aboriginal communities, specifically in Bathurst Island and at Gunbalanya, where much of the printmaking took place on fabric instead of the otherwise popular paper (3). Over the next few decades, this style would become an integral piece of Aboriginal fashion design, with artists showcasing their work in art galleries, Parisian fashion venues, and international cultural exhibits. Considering its humble beginnings, screen printing has certainly had an interesting journey. Today, many individuals, with or without an artistic background, are exploring the craft by attending printing classes. In fact, ClassBento offers a class in Marrickville lead by Carizza Teague who studied the art form at the Eastern Sydney Institute of Technology and has been teaching it for seven years. You may be as surprised by a beginner’s class as I was the first time I saw a screen printing press, but there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy your first experience. Here are a few fundamental aspects to the process that may help you prepare for your first class. First, the materials This type of printing requires a pretty particular set of objects. Most notably, the screen, which is generally a wooden frame fixed with a thin semitransparent film. You will also be provided with a squeegee, emulsion liquid, printing ink, and testing fabric (although you should bring your own fabric for the finished project: think tea towels, tee-shirts, or tote bag.) Your instructor will have a light box to help the emulsion process along quickly. If most of these items seem foreign to you, that’s okay. Your instructor will explain everything! Churning out your work So, all you need is a screen and some ink right? Why all this other stuff? Well, it’s a little more complex than just seeping ink through a film. Carizza’s class uses a photo emulsion method, which requires the following steps: 1. You design a creative graphic. Anything you want! Elegant lettering, your dog, your best friend, the sky’s the limit. 2. You create a transparent version of your beautiful image that will be stripped away after the emulsion process (your teacher will help you with this part.) 3. You prepare for emulsion by fixing your image to a screen, which has been covered with the emulsion liquid. 4. When you expose your screen to light, the emulsion will harden where the liquid is exposed, allowing you to eventually strip away your transparent image. 5. What is left is a kind of stencil through which you can squeeze ink onto fabrics, shirts, and paper products! As a beginner, you will probably be satisfied with sticking to one color for your graphic, creating a minimalist work of art that will astound your friends and family. But, as you advance in your practice, this method can incorporate more and more colors into your work (just remember, each step usually requires a completely new graphic!) In other words, whether you're interested in a novice understanding of screen printing, or you want to take it to the next level, you can be sure that there’s never going to be too little or too much that you can do with your art. You may even advance to larger printing presses! So, don’t be shy! Anyone can make a beautiful graphic using this method, and there’s nothing quite like showcasing your work as part of your daily wardrobe. References: (1) georgerodriguefoundation.org (2) neram.com.au (3) digitalcommons.unl.edu ...
Best Valentine's Day Gifts for Her That Aren't Cliché
By Jana Lepojevic
Ditch the clichés this Valentine’s Day! Discover 7 romantic and meaningful gifts for her that are perfect for connecting and creating memoriesDitch the clichés this Valentine’s Day! Discover 7 romantic and meaningful gifts for her that are perfect for connecting and creating memories this Feb 14th. ...
4 Feel-good Ways to Save Money on Groceries
By Laine Fullerton
From buying with your eyes to channelling the calm of cooking, our teacher community of foodies share four feel-good ways to save money on groceriesFrom buying with your eyes to channelling the calm of cooking, our teacher community of foodies share four feel-good ways to save money on groceries in 2022. ...
Make Italian Meals with Cook with Luca
By ClassBento Team
Make mouthwatering, rich and flavourful Italian meals at Cook with Luca's fun classes.
Practical Eco Friendly Gifts for Him in Sydney
By Sam Bowden
Searching for sustainable presents for the special man in your life? ClassBento has an array of eco friendly gifts for him in Sydney that are perfectSearching for sustainable presents for the special man in your life? ClassBento has an array of eco friendly gifts for him in Sydney that are perfect for birthday experience gifts. ...
Free Tips to Make Your Coffee Taste Better
By Sam Bowden
If you want to learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee, check out coffee classes in Sydney. In the meantime, explore free coffee making tipsIf you want to learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee, check out coffee classes in Sydney. In the meantime, explore free coffee making tips. ...
Gift Ideas for All the Men in Your Life
By Grace Smith
Find experience gifts for him in Sydney and treat every man in your life to more of his passions and interests. Make memories and celebrate him.
Top Barista Class Types
By ClassBento Team
Explore the different types of coffee classes you can take in Sydney. From how to make an espresso at barista classes to learning to appreciate andExplore the different types of coffee classes you can take in Sydney. From how to make an espresso at barista classes to learning to appreciate and taste coffee. ...
Find the Perfect Christmas Gifts for Men in Minutes
By Courtenay Turner
Looking for personalised presents for your dad, husband, BF or brother? Take our quiz and discover the best Christmas gifts for men Australia-wiLooking for personalised presents for your dad, husband, BF or brother? Take our quiz and discover the best Christmas gifts for men Australia-wide. ...
11 Couple Christmas Gifts Every Dynamic Duo Will Love
By Courtenay Turner
Discover hand-picked couple Christmas gifts and spoil your favourite pair with an unforgettable experience – from pottery classes to pasta-maDiscover hand-picked couple Christmas gifts and spoil your favourite pair with an unforgettable experience – from pottery classes to pasta-making. ...
5 Creative Activities to Enrich Your Senses
By Laine Fullerton
That are just as fun as they are beneficial.
The Best Cooking Classes in Australia for Travel Lovers
By ClassBento Team
Enjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch thatEnjoy international cuisine from the comfort of your home city with these cultural cooking classes in Australia. The perfect way to scratch that travel itch! ...
Why a Paint 'n Sip Party Is the Ultimate Way to Celebrate
By ClassBento Team
If you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party inIf you’ve got a special occasion coming up, gather your loved ones for an evening of unforgettable entertainment at a paint ‘n sip party in Australia. ...
Top Craft Ideas to Try in 2025
By ClassBento Team
Getting crafty is fun and good for us! Reap all the benefits of getting hands-on and creative at a craft workshop. Start with these craft ideas forGetting crafty is fun and good for us! Reap all the benefits of getting hands-on and creative at a craft workshop. Start with these craft ideas for inspiration! ...
Reconnect with These Playful Christmas Gift Experiences for Couples
By Tiffany Fung
From Christmas wreath making to sourdough baking, think outside the box this year and reconnect with your lover with these playful Christmas giftsFrom Christmas wreath making to sourdough baking, think outside the box this year and reconnect with your lover with these playful Christmas gifts for couples! ...
Birthday Ideas for First Time Party Planners
By Annie Symmonds
If it's your first time planning a party and you need some birthday ideas, try a creative workshop for a birthday activity that will delight yourIf it's your first time planning a party and you need some birthday ideas, try a creative workshop for a birthday activity that will delight your party guests. ...
Reinvigorate Your Workplace with These Corporate Team Activities
By Sam Bowden
If you're looking for team building activities in Australia that go beyond the pub drinks try these reinvigorating corporate activities for teamIf you're looking for team building activities in Australia that go beyond the pub drinks try these reinvigorating corporate activities for team building. ...
9 DIY Christmas Decoration Ideas for 2025
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Celebrate the holidays with these DIY Christmas activities in Sydney. From wreath-making to bauble decorating, create festive, handmade decorationsCelebrate the holidays with these DIY Christmas activities in Sydney. From wreath-making to bauble decorating, create festive, handmade decorations that last. ...
7 Experience Gifts for Grandparents This Christmas 2025
By Annie Symmonds
Spoil your grandparents this Christmas 2025 with experience gift cards! From flower arranging to pottery classes, they're guaranteed to feel theSpoil your grandparents this Christmas 2025 with experience gift cards! From flower arranging to pottery classes, they're guaranteed to feel the love this year. ...
Grab a Skateboard and Get Rolling
By ClassBento Team
For various reasons, many people overlook skateboarding as a hobby. It is reserved mainly for young, cool kids with trendy fashion sense and a seemingFor various reasons, many people overlook skateboarding as a hobby. It is reserved mainly for young, cool kids with trendy fashion sense and a seeming imperviousness to pain. So it may come as a surprise that skateboarding as a sport and a hobby has been creating buzz in various professional fields, with physical therapists, metal health experts, and community organizers coming together to change the public discourse about skating. What conclusions are they making? That we should all grab a board. But first, the history: Skateboarding is a relatively new sport, first appearing on the West Coast of the U.S. in the 1950’s. At this stage, the concept was crudely obvious: find a wooden plank, four wheels, a screwdriver, and a hill. Of course, the danger of the sport soon tainted its reputation, and many considered skateboarding to be a passing phase in popular culture, especially when it disappeared throughout the 60’s. Thanks to die-hard skaters, the 70’s saw a resurgence of skateboarding in California. One of the innovations of this period was the transition from downhill slalom-style skating to more street-style, trick-based work. This was made possible by some key improvements to the sport, such as better wheels and board design, allowing skaters to discover and master previously unattainable techniques and tricks. It was during this time that the hobby became particularly popular with the anti-establishment culture of the time, a relationship that would shape societal prejudice against skaters for decades. Despite the distaste, skateboarding was quickly becoming an iconic pastime in California, one that would prevail for the next forty years. Skateboarding gained international credibility when technological advances allowed videographers to portray skater culture in wildly popular films such as Thrashin’ (1986) and Video Days (1991). Skateboarding video games soon took over the market, creating a following with millennials, who would grow up with skateboarding as a legitimate, established, and cool sport. Today, the quintessential image of the skater is alive and well. However, more than just young, male skaters are enjoying the sport. With backing from various health professionals, the future of skateboarding looks to be broadening. The Many Health Benefits of Skating Perhaps the most visible benefit of learning to skateboard is the improvement in physical health. Skating requires muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, all areas which are known (1) to contribute to physical wellbeing. It also helps our body in less noticeable areas, such as coordination and balance. According to various fitness sources (2), honing these skills is particularly beneficial in injury prevention and joint health. Physicality is just the tip of the iceberg. Skateboarding offers an array of mental health benefits, as well. On the one hand, general physical exercise is proven (3) to improve mood, increase energy, and combat feelings of stress and depression. This is because the brain reacts to physical exertion by releasing serotonin and dopamine, two chemicals closely related to mood. Yes, but what makes skateboarding so special? Surely those looking for a cure for the blues can run on a treadmill, no training (or bruises) required. Well, there are a few aspects to skateboarding that separate it from other forms of physical exercise. One hidden advantage of skateboarding is the need to be outdoors. Though there are many indoor skateparks in this period of skating revival, most skaters practice their craft in the streets, where the tradition began. Studies (4) suggest that simply being outdoors can improve mental health as a result of increased circulation of Vitamin D in the body. The effect on depression is accentuated in green environments as opposed to urban settings, but anything is better than hitting the gym. Let’s put physiology aside completely for a moment and highlight the other impacts of skating on mental health. For example, a key element to skate culture is a laid-back attitude, but could it also be considered zen? The technicality of skateboarding requires enhanced attention to the body and the present moment, similar to yoga and other meditative practices. In the field of psychology (5), this process is known as mindfulness and has been proven to ease depression and anxiety by redirecting negative thought cycles and reducing stress. Some skaters, like Melani Hatter and Michel Loranger, have documented the role that skateboarding has had in their struggles with mental illness. Skateboarding has one more altruistic trick up its sleeve, namely its sense of community. Groups like Skateboarding is Positive in the United States, lead by Nathan Kolar, are bringing the societal benefits of skating to light. Their advocacy covers topics like public safety, primary and secondary education, autism, and more. In their view, and with the backing of reputable Sociologists and not-for-profit organizations, skateboarding offers invaluable societal advantages, from alternatives to delinquency to transferable life skills that make the entire community a better place. So, Why Aren’t We All Skating? Who knows. Maybe skateboarding’s affiliation with anti-establishment sub-groups of the 80’s has lingering effects on new membership. Maybe those who didn’t start early feel uncomfortable trying later in life. Or, maybe it just really hurts to fall the first few times. But hopefully, all this talk of physical health, mental wellbeing, and societal improvement will open a few minds to the potential of skateboarding. If you’re considering trying out the sport yourself, the best first step is to sign up for a beginner’s class, where an instructor can help you lay the foundation of your craft in a safe and controlled environment. An introductory class will go over basics like balancing on the board, turning, stopping, and falling safely. There are plenty of nf!Sydney skateboarding lessons available, in which beginners can learn from professionals and life-long skaters. Alternatively, many beginners find one-on-one instruction to be particularly helpful and less intimidating than trying out their skills in front of a group. Whatever appeals to you, just don’t forget your helmet and knee pads! From there, skateboarding offers endless possibilities for improvement, from learning new tricks to downhill events. Even if you’re just in it for a reliable form of transportation, skateboarding can drastically improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Happy skating! References: (1) sciencedaily.com (2) passionateaboutfitness.com (3) rcpsych.ac.uk (4) health.harvard.edu (5) apa.org ...
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