Physical Activity and Wellness

PAW 234 Wellness, Fitness and Lifestyle Management (3 credit hours)

This course empowers students to identify their own health risks considering family history and lifestyle choices. Current information influencing a student's individual health and wellness will be examined. Focus is on developing skills and strategies to improve overall wellness in the following areas: physical, social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and environmental. As students assess multiple wellness dimensions, a specific target behavior will be identified and a plan for change developed. Students will be challenged to think personally and socially as they consider complex health risks and see opportunities to support positive change in themselves and others.

PAW 105 Aqua Exercise (1 credit hour)

This course provides an in-water exercise program that emphasizes the development of
cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, muscle strength, muscle endurance, and general movement efficiency. Music is used to help motivate the students. The fitness guidelines followed in this course are designed for the apparently healthy individual and are not designed for individuals with known cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic diseases. Students are encouraged to see a physician before embarking on any exercise program. Students do not need to be able to swim to participate, but being comfortable in the water is necessary.

PAW 118 Physical Fitness and Conditioning - Men (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to improve the student's current level of health and well-being through physical fitness. Emphasis will be on activities that promote increased cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength/endurance, and flexibility by using a variety of training techniques designed to improve each of these areas of fitness. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different exercise programs and the relevance of varied programs to the student's personal goals.

PAW 119 Physical Fitness and Conditioning - Women (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to improve the student's current level of health and well-being through physical fitness. Emphasis will be on activities that promote increased cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength/endurance, and flexibility by using a variety of training techniques designed to improve each of these areas of fitness. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different exercise programs and the relevance of varied programs to the student's personal goals.

PAW 134 Concepts of Physical Activity and Wellness (1 credit hour)

This course introduces the student to a variety of physical activity experiences. Students will acquire knowledge in the health related aspects of physical fitness, develop psychomotor skills and experience personal preferences while engaging in a variety of introductory physical activities (cardiorespiratory, muscular strength/endurance, core conditioning, flexibility training, yoga, pilates, etc.). Upon completion of this course, students will be empowered to participate regularly in a variety of physical activities, elect additional physical education skill courses based on their needs and interests, and also be encouraged to actively participate in co-curricular campus and community based activity programs that promote higher levels of health and related physical fitness and wellness. 

PAW 136 Aerobic Dance (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to help students develop an understanding and appreciation of the importance of improving their "aerobic" fitness as a part of total fitness. Students participate in a program of vigorous movement to music at a level consistent with their existing level of fitness and gradually strive to reach a higher level of fitness.

PAW 138 Introduction to High Intensity Functional Fitness (1 credit hour) 

This course is designed to optimize the physical fitness of students of all levels by learning to train functionally compound movements that are continuously varied, with maximum effort. Classroom activities will promote and enhance functional fitness that will have direct application and influence on activities of daily living. Students will gain physical competency in areas such as endurance, stamina, strength, power, and flexibility. Upon completion of course, students will understand how to utilize a safe and effective exercise program that not only improves fitness levels but improves general physical preparedness of daily living.

PAW 139 Trends in Cardiorespiratory Exercise (1 credit hour)

This course will examine popular trends in cardiorespiratory exercise as a means of improving one's physical fitness. Various cardiorespiratory exercise specialties that have emerged in recent times will be surveyed. Through active participation and application of techniques/principles learned in class, students will explore areas such as step aerobics, cardio-kickboxing, and interval training.

PAW 163 Yoga (1 credit hour)

This course will examine popular trends in cardiorespiratory exercise as a means of improving one's physical fitness. Various cardiorespiratory exercise specialties that have emerged in recent times will be surveyed. Through active participation and application of techniques/principles learned in class, students will explore areas such as step aerobics, cardio-kickboxing, and interval training.

PAW 164 Introduction to Tai Chi (1 credit hour)

This course is an introduction to the ancient Chinese practice of Tai Chi. Initially practiced as a fighting form, it has evolved into a type of exercise that emphasizes improved muscle endurance, flexibility, balance, and relaxation. Course content includes an overview of the history and philosophy of Tai Chi, learning QiGong, and a modified version of the Yang style 24 "short form."

PAW 165 Pilates (1 credit hour)

The Pilates Method of Conditioning is the art of strength, stretch and control. It is a full body conditioning system designed to develop and improve strength, flexibility, posture and coordination. The low impact nature of Pilates makes it ideal for injury prevention. Students will learn how to execute exercises and cue them effectively as well as how to adapt them to general fitness classes, sports and healthy living.

PAW 170 Core Conditioning (1 credit hour)

Core conditioning is a key component of physical fitness and encompasses exercise programs
targeting the muscle groups that stabilize the spine, pelvis and shoulders, providing a solid foundation for movement. Participants will actively engage in a program based on their current fitness level and learn proper training techniques by using one's own body weight as well as various pieces of equipment such as medicine balls, kettle bells, stability balls, resistance bands, dumbbells TRX suspension training, and balance equipment such as the Basu and foam rollers.

Note: All classes are coed unless indicated otherwise.

PAW 107 Introduction to Rock Climbing (1 credit hour)

This is a beginning course that will focus on indoor climbing movement and technique that will enhance the physical strength, flexibility and mental focus of the student. Safe belaying, the figure 8 knot, and climbing terminology will also be covered. (This course will not meet outside. Belayer certification is not required, but encouraged.)

PAW 128 Broadway Dance (1 credit hour)

Broadway Dance explores Broadway dance styles in a fun, engaging introductory level workout. This course will introduce the students to popular Broadway dancing styles and the Broadway shows utilizing them. Students will learn how to warm-up and perform coordination exercises, classic steps, combinations and choreography used in Broadway productions. This course will include students learning Broadway dance routines to current and iconic Broadway show tunes.

PAW 130 Self Defense (1 credit hour)

This course is an introduction to basic self-defense skills, and escape and avoidance strategies. The course includes an exploration of violent crimes in society, violence and crime prevention techniques, self-defense and the law and how to develop a personal safety plan of action. Fitness principles will be addressed specifically in terms of the student's ability to practice and perform basic self-defense skills.
 

PE 140 Fundamentals of Golf (1 credit hour)

This is an introductory course that emphasizes grip, set-up, swing, and club play. Additionally, both etiquette and the rules of golf (PGA and USGA) will be covered. The course involves both instruction and practice. Some of the course sessions are held off campus with a nominal fee assessed. 

PE 141 Introduction to Adventure Sports (1 credit hour)

This physically demanding course provides an introduction to the growing world of recreational adventure sports, including mountain biking, paddling, navigating, ropes, and backpacking. This is an opportunity for students to learn the basics of each sport, decide if they want to pursue those interests further, and/or to put them all together for an Adventure/Multi-sport Race. The goals of the course are to build confidence through training and sport, introduce students to alternative sports, and reiterate the importance of teamwork to achieve a goal. (A mountain bike is required.)

PE 142 Introduction to Flatwater Paddle Sports (Spring semester: 1 credit hour)

This course will provide an introduction to flatwater paddle sports. Students will learn and practice basic flatwater paddling skills for use of kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and canoes. Course instructional topics will include personal fitness, activity benefits, trip planning, gear preparation, precautions/hazards, safety, and leadership. Students of all swimming ability levels (including non­ swimmers) are welcome in this course. Experiential outings (including travel) will occur within regularly scheduled class meeting times. Students are responsible for transportation and cost for equipment rental associated with field excursion.

PE 143 Backpacking (1 credit hour)

This course will provide a foundation of knowledge, skills, and experience related to backpacking and backcountry camping. Students will learn and practice basic backpacking skills for gear selection and use. Course instructional topics will include personal fitness, activity benefits, trip planning, gear preparation, precautions/hazards, safety, leave no trace practices, and leadership. Students of various backpacking experience levels are welcome in this course. Experiential outings (including travel) will occur within regularly scheduled class meeting times. Students will be expected to attend one overnight backpacking trip in addition to regularly scheduled class time. Students are responsible for transportation and cost for equipment rental associated with the overnight backpacking trip.

PE 150 Archery (0.5 credit hour)

This course consists of developing an understanding of archery terminology, physical skills for using point of aim and the bow sight, and safety factors as it applies to target shooting. All equipment will be supplied.

PE 151 Badminton (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this individual sport emphasizes basic skill development, history, equipment, rules, and strategies for actively participating in this popular sport. 

PE 154 Ice Skating (1 credit hour)

This sport will provide the student with basic skills to develop confidence on the ice, and expose them to the various forms of ice skating such as figure skating, speed skating and team ice skating. Students are responsible for transportation to the ice rink and also a nominal cost for skating. 

PE 159 Tennis (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this team sport emphasizes rules, proper use of equipment, performance technique, and skill development plus insights into strategy, terminology, and history of volleyball. 

Note: All classes are coed unless indicated otherwise.

PAW 106 Introduction to Water Polo (1 credit hour)

This is a beginning course for those who have never played or have had limited experience in water polo. Students will be introduced to the fundamental skills, rules, strategy and gameplay of water polo. To enroll students must be able to swim for 200 yards without stopping and tread water for two minutes. 

PAW 120 Beginning Swimming (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to improve the student's proficiency in basic aquatic skills and learn the six basic swim strokes. Students will learn the skills and concepts needed to stay safe in and around water and to help themselves or others in an aquatic emergency. Students who have participated on swim teams at any level are not eligible to take this class. Prerequisite: Comfortable in chest-deep water, able to put face in the water, able to perform strokes that can be recognized as front crawl, breaststroke and back crawl for 15 yards.

PAW 121 Intermediate and Advanced Swimming (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to refine the student's front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke stroke, and turns, as well as build endurance. Students will learn the skills and concepts needed to stay safe in and around water. Prerequisite: PAW 120 or participants must be able to swim the following strokes: 25 yards Front crawl, 15 yards Breaststroke, 25 yards Back crawl.

PAW 123 Learn to Swim - a non-swimmers course (1 credit hour)

This course is designed to refine the student's front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke stroke, and turns, as well as build endurance. Students will learn the skills and concepts needed to stay safe in and around water. Prerequisite: PAW 120 or participants must be able to swim the following strokes: 25 yards Front crawl, 15 yards Breaststroke, 25 yards Back crawl.

PAW 124 Lifeguard Training (2 credit hours) 

The purpose of the course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until emergency medical services personnel take over. There is an additional cost to receive the certification. Prerequisite: The student must demonstrate they are able to swim 300 yards of front crawl or breaststroke without stopping.

PAW 125 Scuba Diving (1 credit hour)

Through classroom and pool sessions, this course covers the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to safely and successfully complete the 4 PADI Open Water Certification Dives. Special emphasis is placed on diving physics and physiology, equipment, underwater environment, and safety/first-aid procedures. (For an additional fee, special arrangements can be made to be certified in these dives - this certification is NOT required for a grade). In addition to the course materials, students must have their own properly fitted mask, snorkel, and fins with booties. Additional written details will be provided before the semester begins. Prerequisite: The student must be at least 18 years old and without aids be able to swim 200 yards without stopping. A 10 minute float is also required.

Note: All classes are coed unless indicated otherwise.

PAW 144 Ice Hockey (1 credit hour)

This sport will provide the student with basic skills to develop confidence on the ice, and expose them to the various forms of ice skating such as figure skating, speed skating and team ice skating. Students are responsible for transportation to the ice rink and also a nominal cost for skating. 

PAW 152 Basketball (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this team sport emphasizes rules, proper use of equipment, performance technique, and skill development plus insights into strategy, terminology, and history of basketball.

PAW 155 Soccer (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this team sport emphasizes rules, proper use of equipment, performance technique, and skill development plus insights into strategy, terminology, and history of soccer.

PAW 156 Softball (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this team sport emphasizes rules, proper use of equipment, performance technique, and skill development plus insights into strategy, terminology, and history of the softball.

PAW 160 Volleyball (0.5 credit hour)

The instruction in this team sport emphasizes rules, proper use of equipment, performance technique, and skill development plus insights into strategy, terminology, and history of volleyball.

Note: All classes are coed unless indicated otherwise.