Health & Fitness

***Please read all and make sure you agree before you sign up.*** **Court Type:** Outdoor Sand **Level:** adv beginners+/intermediate (BB/A) **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the sand courts, behind the courts, and there is garage parking close to the courts. Metro is the Blue and Yellow Lines. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball if you have one. **MAX:** 10 players per net. (1 Net) **Restroom:** Restrooms are across the street in the restaurants. **Host's Philosophy on This Event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. This is a space where you won’t be judged for making mistakes, ***but we do expect you to listen to the organizer if they make suggestions or adjustments***. We also expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have issues with this ahead of the event. [https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Smiley Attendance Ratio\* > Skills (BB>B) > New Members The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. One no-show means you will be removed from the group. See the rules below. **\*The organizers can see the number of times you have attended events vs the times you have dropped out. If your drop rate is more than 50%, you may not be accepted to the going list.** [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** * Bringing your **dog** is welcome and encouraged. * *Can I come if I don't know how to play?* No, you may not. The host teaches a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. * *Can I be late or leave early?* The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to arrive late or leave early, please let the host know in advance. * *Can I come even if I am not on the going list?* No, sorry * Why Max the players at 10 when you can do 6v6? This court is already for 2v2; getting 6 players on each side is overkill. * How can I become a regular if I don't ever get to attend? You can attend my other events on weekdays/weekends. Show me you have good skills and bring good vibes! **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)

COST: Green Spring has a parking fee which we will collect together because they consider us a “group” with different fee rules. Therefore, DO NOT put parking fee in parking lot collection box. Instead, please bring some cash for the GROUP fee (dollar bills or a fiver) to our start point. DESCRIPTION: Join us on a slowish walk over gentle hills with stops (up to two miles in about two hours) at Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria, to enjoy the waning wonders of winter (and even last autumn) and the signs of spring.(Unfortunately, the mulched trails and slopes are not wheelchair accessible nor suitable for those with walking difficulties.) Experience nature in a leisurely way, and awaken your senses. Before trees leaf out, we still get our longest scenic views, evergreens pop, and groups of bare trees are like sculpture gardens. Delight in the rush of spring water and colors and textures of early flowers. In the Glass House conservatory, preview what will become the colorful late-spring planted gardens. WHAT WE'LL DO: We will meander up to 2 miles in about 2 hours within Green Spring Gardens (with opportunities to stop, engage and wonder) and end up back at the visitors center. YOUR GUIDE: Adrienne Betancourt is an educator (with a career in adult education and college programs.) She completed the Maryland Natural Naturalist 60-hour course and has continued to study natural history, with experience leading programs and walks for kids, families, and adults. MEETING POINT: Drive to : 4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312 Meet at 10:30 AM for a short introduction (that is, OUTSIDE main door of the Visitor's center in view of reception desk and restrooms and water inside). We start walking at 10:45 AM. PARKING: Medium-sized lot available. But do NOT put fees into parking box slots. Instead hold onto your cash for when we collect the required GROUP fee, please. WEATHER: Steady rain cancels event. We will add updates as needed. PREPARATION: * Sturdy comfortable footwear * Hiking poles (optional) * Comfortable layers * Water! * Snack and/or lunch if desired * Backpack * Sunblock * Bug spray * Optional: bring binoculars and your charged up cell phone for taking photos and using nature apps. WEBSITE & NEWSLETTER: [https://imaginebeingwell.org](https://imaginebeingwell.org/) [Click Here to Sign Up](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events and retreats. LIABILITY RELEASE: With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings, and workshops are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care and assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.

COST: Green Spring has a minimal parking fee (\~$2) which we will collect together because they consider us a “group” with different fee rules. Therefore, DO NOT put parking fee in parking lot collection box. Instead, please bring some cash for the GROUP fee (dollar bills or a fiver) to our start point. DESCRIPTION: Join us on a slowish walk over gentle hills with stops (up to two miles in about two hours) at Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria, to enjoy the waning wonders of winter (and even last autumn) and the signs of spring.(Unfortunately, the mulched trails and slopes are not wheelchair accessible nor suitable for those with walking difficulties.) Experience nature in a leisurely way, and awaken your senses. Before trees leaf out, we still get our longest scenic views, evergreens pop, and groups of bare trees are like sculpture gardens. Delight in the rush of spring water and colors and textures of early flowers. In the Glass House conservatory, preview what will become the colorful late-spring planted gardens. WHAT WE'LL DO: We will meander up to 2 miles in about 2 hours within Green Spring Gardens (with opportunities to stop, engage and wonder) and end up back at the visitors center. YOUR GUIDE: Adrienne Betancourt is an educator (with a career in adult education and college programs.) She completed the Maryland Natural Naturalist 60-hour course and has continued to study natural history, with experience leading programs and walks for kids, families, and adults. MEETING POINT: Drive to : 4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312 Meet at 10:30 AM for a short introduction (that is, OUTSIDE main door of the Visitor's center in view of reception desk and restrooms and water inside). We start walking at 10:45 AM. PARKING: Medium-sized lot available. But do NOT put fees into parking box slots. Instead hold onto your cash for when we collect the required GROUP fee, please. WEATHER: Steady rain cancels event. We will add updates as needed. PREPARATION: * Sturdy comfortable footwear * Hiking poles (optional) * Comfortable layers * Water! * Snack and/or lunch if desired * Backpack * Sunblock * Bug spray * Optional: bring binoculars and your charged up cell phone for taking photos and using nature apps. WEBSITE & NEWSLETTER: [https://imaginebeingwell.org](https://imaginebeingwell.org/) [Click Here to Sign Up](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/newsletter-form/sign-up-for-the-imagine-well-being-newsletter) to join Imagine Well Being’s mailing list to stay informed on the latest news and upcoming events and retreats. LIABILITY RELEASE: With my RSVP, I hereby stipulate that I am physically sound to participate in this event. I understand and agree that all classes, gatherings, and workshops are undertaken at my sole risk and that Imagine Well Being guides and instructors shall not be liable for injuries or damages to my person or property arising out of or connected to any of these activities. I authorize Imagine Well Being guides and instructors to call 911 in the event that I appear to require emergency medical care and assume responsibility for all associated costs. I have carefully read this agreement and understand its contents. I agree that it is a complete release of liability for any injuries or damage that I may sustain due to Imagine classes, gatherings, and workshops.

If you’re a dad over 35, you probably feel it: * Your energy isn’t what it used to be. * Work stress drains you before you even get home. * The weight has crept on around the middle. * Your kids still have endless energy, but keeping up with them feels harder every year. And deep down, you know your family looks to you as the example. If you’re running on empty, short on patience, and out of shape, that’s the standard you set at home. The **D.A.D.S. Program (Dads Achieving Discipline & Strength)** was built for men like you. Ordinary guys with jobs, families, and full schedules who want to: * **Reclaim strength** so you feel capable, athletic, and confident again. * **Boost energy** so you’re sharp at work and fully present with your family. * **Drop the aches, stiffness, and sluggishness** that make you feel older than you are. * **Find balance and accountability** by training alongside other dads in the same fight. * **Crush male loneliness** by connecting with men who “get it” and have your back. Here’s the best part: You don’t need to be a seasoned gym rat. This is designed for **beginner to intermediate exercisers**—dads who may have been out of the gym for years or have never had a structured program, but know it’s time to get serious. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, we’re hosting **Meet-Up Workouts from 6:00–6:45 AM.** No strings attached. Just one powerful hour that could be the turning point in your health, energy, and family life. There are only **8 spots available**, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. Location: Revolutionary Fitness - 215 N. Payne St., Alexandria, Va 22314 Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 6:00–6:45 AM To claim your spot, call/text 703-783-2316 or email sign up directly at [https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads](https://go.thefitrevolution.com/dads) Stop putting yourself last. Take this hour, and give your family the stronger, sharper, healthier version of you.

Join us for the Friday Night Fitness Skate! A 12 or 8 mile fitness skate that skates the same route each week so you will know the route and pavement hazards (since it is dark) and be able to work on form, endurance or speed as the cold wind is pushing against you! ;) The route has nice long stretches of uninterrupted skating, open roads with very few cars and the regroups are short and infrequent. We will meet at Freedom Plaza at 7pm as long as it is not raining, snowing and the pavement is not wet or icy. We’ll warm up with a skate to the Capital and then skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. From the Lincoln we will proceed to Haynes Point down Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile Haynes Point loop (12 mile total skate) or practice stops or stunts at the regroup spot while others skate the loop (8.5 mile total skate.) The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive and a couple patches here and there. The wind can be very strong and cold especially on Ohio Drive and Haynes Point as we skate adjacent to the water. Please feel free to jazz up your gear with lights, I wear a helmet bike light (since it is pretty dark) and a set of body lights. Most of the regulars skate with lighted wheels for fun! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will update this post via the comment section around 6pm on Friday. Of course, all skating is at your own risk. Hope you will come join us!

Enjoy a vibrant and engaging dance experience that blends global rhythms and diverse styles. This class combines elements of Bollywood, Latin, and other dance forms into a smooth, easy-to-follow flow designed to get you moving and grooving at a comfortable pace. Perfect for all levels, this class focuses on fun, relaxation, and connection with the music while giving you a gentle workout. Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable dance session! (Please wear socks). Friday, March 13 from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum – Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 200, Chantilly, VA. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Please arrive on time. **FREE EVENT - Registration Required at [https://shorturl.at/KJoXv](https://shorturl.at/KJoXv)** *Support the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum with your tax-deductible* *contribution.* **[CONTRIBUTE](https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html "https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html")**

Hey Social Sips & Bites friends! 🎶🍹 One of our group’s absolute favorite feel-good bands, The Nonessentials, are back at The Solace Outpost, and we want the whole crew there! This is your chance to kick back with friends, enjoy amazing live music, sip on something delicious, and grab a tasty bite. Every time The Nonessentials play, the vibes are high and the dance floor is calling - let’s make it a night to remember! https://www.thenonessentialz.com/

Doubles volleyball skills and rules can be different from indoor volleyball and if you are already an advanced beginner 6x6 player and want to learn how to play doubles volleyball, this event will be for you. Cost: FREE Court Type: Outdoor grass Minimum Required Skill Level: B (Advanced Beginner) **Skills that we will cover:** Be a good doubles partner ( [details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/14weEw-P52XKx0P8K2l-ZOFtYU61wmfdkSkopbG5avro) ) Tomahawk Receiving positions Doubles hand set Doubles bump set Knuckle shot Defense position and hand signals Serving strategies Attacking by ball placement (Roll shot and Jumbo) King of the court game **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit)

Social pickleball. No level required. This event is outdoors. You should bring some pickleballs, a paddle, and water.

The Runstr District 5K is a charity race with a twist. Your finish decides which cause wins. Pick a team. Run your best. The charity with the most runners in the top 100 takes home $500. 🎟️ Tickets: [https://runsignup.com/Race/DC/Washington/Runstr5k](https://runsignup.com/Race/DC/Washington/Runstr5k) 🎫 You can also [buy a ticket with Bitcoin here](https://www.satlantis.io/events/1571/RUNSTR%3A-DISTRICT-5k) **Choose Your Charity** * Human Rights Foundation * ALS Network * Chimes International **Race Day** 📅 March 15, 2026 at 7:00 AM 📍 Haines Point, DC 🏃‍♀️‍➡️ Flat, scenic loop along the Potomac 🎶 After Party Brunch at [Pubkey DC](https://www.pubkey.bar/dc/home) with LIVE MUSIC and awards. 🎟️ Tickets: [https://runsignup.com/Race/DC/Washington/Runstr5k](https://runsignup.com/Race/DC/Washington/Runstr5k) 🎫 You can also [buy a ticket with Bitcoin here](https://www.satlantis.io/events/1571/RUNSTR%3A-DISTRICT-5k) [RUNSTR](https://www.satlantis.io/) is a free, privacy-first fitness app that turns your workouts into charitable impact, complete a workout, support a cause you care about.

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41342369](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41342369) 17.8 miles paved; lunch @ 9.5 miles @ Fletcher's Boathouse. Bathroom at start, Peirce Mill, Fletcher's boathouse; Bethesda outdoor pool (port-a-potty). Arrival is 10:00. Cycling starts at 10:15. For this e-biking extravaganza we begin at the Nature Center in Rock Creek Park and e-bike down Beach Drive, which is closed to cars. After a short stop at the waterfall and Peirce Mill, we continue on the trail past the National Zoo, take the Zoo Loop, and follow the trail toward the Potomac. After an optional stop at the Georgetown Waterfront, we'll wind our way onto the Capital Crescent Trail going north. Then on to Fletcher's Boathouse for lunch in the park. After lunch (you bring your own) we head north toward Bethesda, then make our way east through Chevy Chase and back to the Nature Center. The ride affords ample scenic vistas, multiple Kodak moments, and dare we say it, abundant E-Bike love. Please bring some snacks, lunch and plenty of water. Our bikes will be always in our sight. No additional locks are required to keep your bike safe on this trip. The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. The distance will be around 18 miles or shorter any time you are fully satisfied with biking for the day. **Please charge your battery. While much of the ride is flat or a gentle grade, be aware there are some hills on this route. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome.** **Free Ride With GPS for E-Bike Lovers** The Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as www.ebikelovers.com generates sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN **More information about using GPS files:** https://ebikelovers.com/2021/03/15/download-our-trails-and-never-get-lost/ **More information about e-bike ranges:** https://ebikelovers.com/2020/12/31/e-bike-longer-and-happier-15-smart-strategies-to-reduce-your-e-bike-range-anxiety/ **DISCLAIMER** LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, RICHARD CAMER, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

Ready for a night of music, laughter, and fun? Join us at Thunderwing Brewery for Music Bingo — a lively twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and good vibes are guaranteed! RSVP to secure your spot. Text Renee (614-257-9389). (Headcount needed to make sure staffing can accommodate the group) Arrive early to get a seat - **bring a camping chair for extra seating.** Often the brewery has food trucks or you can bring in your own food. Bonus - You can bring your dog!

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.

Free at Bexley Library Adventures in Ecological Horticulture with Rebecca McMackin Wednesday, March 18 1:00pm - 2:30pm Gone are the days when a garden could be ornamental alone. We now recognize the impact that our land care practices have on the ecosystems around us, and can see the importance of encouraging biodiversity. Thankfully, we do not need to sacrifice beauty when we invite butterflies and songbirds into our gardens. Rebecca McMackin has cultivated gorgeous landscapes in the toughest environments possible: urban parks, school playgrounds, and the sidewalks of New York City. She will take lessons from her work at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and decades of research to share how those of us who are fortunate enough to care for land, can do it beautifully and ecologically. Rebecca McMackin is an ecologically obsessed horticulturist and garden designer. She writes, lectures, and teaches on ecological landscape management and pollination ecology, as well as designs the rare public garden. She is currently Lead Horticulturist for the American Horticultural Society, an Associate with the Harvard Divinity School’s Thinking with Plants and Fungi Initiative, and Consulting Arboretum Curator for Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, NY. Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture of Brooklyn Bridge Park, where she managed 85 acres of diverse parkland organically. Their research into cultivating urban biodiversity and ethical management strategies has influenced thousands of people and entire urban parks systems to adopt similar approaches. She has been published by and featured in the New York Times, Gardens Illustrated, on NPR and PBS. Her garden for the Brooklyn Museum recently won the PPA’s Award of Excellence and her TED Talk has been viewed over a million times. She holds M.Sc. from Columbia University and University of Victoria in landscape design and biology and recently completed the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. This program is presented in partnership with Rooted in Bexley and generously funded by the Bexley Community Foundation and Bexley Community Author Series Fund.