The Best Online Classes to Take

There’s no denying that many of us have a lot more time on our hands right now, and are spending far more time at home than we ever expected. Now more than ever, it’s super important to indulge in a little self-care and enjoy time with friends and family in whichever ways we can. It’s also the perfect time to take part in some fun activities, either alone or with loved ones, and to take the time to learn some new skills. A virtual class is a great way to improve your skills, have fun, and even meet new people along the way. Without further ado, here’s my roundup of the best online classes to take, from photography to cooking.

Cocktail making

Cocktail making is undoubtedly a skill we should all have, and there’s no time like the present! With real life cocktail masterclasses currently a no-go, there’s no better time to swot up to impress your loved ones than right now. ClassBento makes this super easy with their online cocktail classes. A DIY cocktail kit will be delivered to your address in the UK, containing everything you need for the online cocktail class. You’ll then be sent a Zoom link to join where you’ll learn how to make three DIY cocktails from the comfort of your sofa, including a classic espresso martini. The award-winning mixologists will also share some tips and tricks of the trade while you relax at home. The classes are small so it’s kept interactive and easy to ask questions throughout the online class. It’s the perfect activity for an isolation date or simply a great way to stay entertained while learning something fun at home.

Language tuition

Whether you want to finesse your French, or perfect your Portuguese, the downtime we’re all experiencing makes now the perfect time to learn a language. There’s a wide range of online classes to choose from to help you hone your language skills. Language companies like Language Tree offer lessons live streamed to your home. They’re fun and engaging classes in small groups via Zoom, so that they’re kept interactive and as fun and engaging as possible. All classes are taught by qualified and experienced native speakers, with regular lessons each week at times to suit you. They use interactive materials in each lesson to elevate each session and to ensure each student takes away as much as possible. There are even regular social activities to ensure you get to meet likeminded people and practise your language skills.

Smartphone photography

We might not be able to travel right now, but one way to transport yourself is by booking ClassBento’s Sydney Harbour Bridge photography experience. Thanks to the power of Zoom, you can explore beautiful Sydney’s most iconic landmarks while taking a virtual smartphone photography class. I took part in this live-streamed online class last week, and it was so much fun – award-winning photographer, Alfonso, starts off by giving you a walking tour around Sydney Opera House. You then learn all about how to best use natural light, composition, and editing photos all taken with your smartphone. I discovered way more about using Snapseed, and controlling exposure and diffusion across my photos. Alfonso’s also more than happy to answer any questions you might have about taking photos as you learn. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn some new tricks of the trade, all while experiencing a little wanderlust. It’s also a great gift idea for friends and family.

Dance class

One of the best online classes you can take right now is a dance class. What better way to stay fit and active while learning some new moves at home? Whether you prefer dance cardio or more of a relaxed ballet style dance, there’s an online class for you. Learning how to dance is a great way to lower stress levels as well as improving fitness. Not only that, but via an online class you’ll likely meet new people. Check out 305 Fitness for a super fun dance-based cardio home workout, complete with live DJ. Currently, they even offer some free virtual dance classes through YouTube three times a week. Jazzercise takes on a blend of kickboxing, pilates, and dance. They even have an app where you can participate in workout classes on your own clock.

Painting masterclass

There’s nothing more therapeutic than an art class – particularly when combined with a glass of the good stuff! Take it easy by sitting back for a Paint, Sip, and Chill class by ClassBento. It’s a unique opportunity to relax, paint, enjoy a glass of your favourite drink, and gain tips on how to paint from an art expert. Live streamed to the comfort of your sofa. It’s the perfect gift idea or simply a fun activity to take on at home. One of the best online classes, your teacher, Jessa, will coach you through the painting process and teach you some of the most valuable artistic techniques. It’s all taught in a relaxing atmosphere that will help lift away some of the stresses of everyday life from the past few months. What’s more, at the end of the online class you’ll have your very own masterpiece to hang on the wall. All you need is the art materials for this class.

Cookery school

This year has been a real game changer for propelling businesses to look online to share their skills and expertise, and restaurants have been no exception. There’s no better time to brush up on your kitchen skills while we’re all stuck at home, and there are so many great online classes to choose from whether you’re a pro of a beginner. The Jamie Oliver Cookery School offer live interactive classes with recipe cards and prep sheets that you can join via Zoom. Choose from all kinds of cuisine, like Mexican street food through to a pasta masterclass with Italian chef, Gennaro Contaldo. For each online class, the chefs will walk you three each of the recipe steps and cook along at the same time. It’s super fun, interactive, and you’ll meet other foodies on the call. Pour yourself a glass of wine and get stuck in!

Workout classes

Push back the sofa, turn up the music, and get ready to work out! This year has been transformational when it comes to home workouts thanks to gyms being forced to close. What has been great is the sheer variety on offer to choose from. Glo is a hub for online yoga, meditation, pilates and fitness classes. Great for both body and mind, you can participate in dozens of live classes to get engagement with the instructor and the latest workouts, no matter where you are in the world. Equally, Daily Burn offers both group workouts or 1-on-1 training that works around your schedule. This means you can have a tailored program for your level and goals, including a schedule, nutrition plan, and rest periods.

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That’s my guide to the best online classes to participate in! How have you kept busy this year? Are there any other online classes you’d recommend?

This article was written in conjunction with ClassBento.