Physical Education Course Descriptions: A Comprehensive Guide to Fitness and Wellness

Physical education courses play a vital role in fostering healthy lifestyles and equipping students with the skills and knowledge to maintain their well-being throughout their lives. These courses are designed to empower students to make informed choices, overcome challenges, and cultivate positive behaviors related to fitness, wellness, and movement. This article provides a comprehensive overview of various physical education course offerings, catering to diverse interests and fitness levels.

Core Principles of Physical Education

At its core, physical education aims to help students learn how to maintain an appropriate level of physical and motor fitness necessary for an active lifestyle. The purpose of these courses is for students to acquire usable skills for current and future interests. The four content areas primarily covered are:

Physical Fitness: Developing and maintaining cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition.
Individual Sports: Acquiring skills and knowledge in sports that can be enjoyed individually, such as tennis, swimming, and golf.
Team Sports: Learning teamwork, strategy, and skills in sports like basketball, soccer, and volleyball.
Leisure Education: Exploring recreational activities and promoting lifelong engagement in physical activity.

Specialized Physical Education Courses

Beyond the general principles, many specialized courses cater to specific needs and interests.

Adaptive Physical Education

This course is designed for students with special needs who are unable to participate in a regular physical education course. The course content is modified to meet the student's ability to participate in team, individual, leisure, and physical fitness activities.

Sports Nutrition

Sports Nutrition 1 is designed for all students and examines the relationship between nutrition, physical performance, and overall wellness. Students will learn how to choose nutritious foods for healthy lifestyles and peak performance. The required Physical Education program offers a variety of activities in the areas of strength training, dance, cardio fitness, martial arts, individual and dual sports, team sports, and outdoor education.

Physical Education and Marching Band

Physical Education1-Marching Band is a class comprised of the standards for Physical Education 1 and Marching Band. Students will participate in physical activities, health education, and music performance. Students in this course will manage their progress of physical activity goals through a Pre/Post Fitness-gram test.

Cardiovascular Fitness Courses

These courses focus on improving cardiovascular health and overall well-being through various activities.

Running

This course focuses on improving cardiovascular fitness through walking, jogging, and ultimately running outside. Running promotes cardiovascular fitness, functional health, stress management, and other positive health outcomes. Students will learn to build running endurance in order to improve cardiovascular health and physical well-being. The course will address components of good running form, progressive training, complementary strength training exercises, and basic nutrition. Warm ups and cool downs will be emphasized in order to create a balanced workout. Suggested safety tips will also be addressed in order to encourage safe physical activity outdoors in a variety of environments. This course runs for 10 weeks during the semester.

Heart Rate Training

This course emphasizes cardiorespiratory (CR) fitness through running, biking, stepping, rowing, and body weight training, while using a heart rate monitor to track and evaluate performance. Each student will evaluate their own CR fitness level and based on this, the student will participate in an individualized program to improve or maintain that level. Throughout the class, discussions will focus on the benefits of cardiovascular health, physical activity recommendations, and positive health outcomes associated with life long participation in physical activity. Students will be encouraged to build endurance in order to improve cardiovascular health and physical well-being. Upon completion, students will understand and appreciate the lifelong benefits derived from heart rate training. By using heart rate monitors, students will be provided with real time data about the intensity of their workouts. This course will have weekly in person meetings at the Dodge Fitness Center to cover course topics and workout assignments. Students must have a heart rate monitor.

Outdoor Cycling

This course focuses on improving cardiovascular fitness through outdoor cycling. Students will be encouraged to build endurance in order to improve cardiovascular health and physical well-being. Students will review key components of cycling safety, proper set up, basic maintenance, progressive training programs, and cross training exercises to support performance. Warm ups and cool downs will be emphasized in order to create a balanced workout. Access to, and knowledge of how to ride, a bike is required in order to participate in this class. See syllabus via Courseworks - class meets 5 times in person, including group rides and workshops.

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Fitness Walking

Fitness walking, power walking and cross country walking techniques are taught. Students assess personal fitness levels and work to improve cardiovascular fitness and set personal goals. A continuation of Fitness Walking I involves improvement of cardiovascular fitness through increased intensity and/or distance.

Spinning

A 50-minute fitness class using spinning (stationary) bicycles. Cardiovascular endurance (aerobic and anaerobic) and muscular strength and endurance are developed. Music is used as a tool to motivate and inspire, as well as establish the pace, rhythm and energy level of the class. A 50-minute fitness class using spinning (stationary) bicycles. Advanced spinning techniques are implemented to further improve fitness level. Aerobic and anaerobic training are used. Music is used to motivate and inspire, as well as to establish the pace, rhythm and energy level of the class.

Strength and Conditioning Courses

These courses focus on building strength, endurance, and overall physical conditioning.

Pilates

In this class, students will learn the basic components of Pilates exercises, core exercises, functional movements. This course approaches the Pilates method and basic Pilates Principles of Concentration, Center, Control, Fluidity, Precision and Breath actively with exercises that promote global body awareness.

Functional Fitness

This course focuses on improving physical fitness with an emphasis on functional movement patterns that reflect activities of daily living. Students will learn about different metabolic pathways, along with various components of fitness such as cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility. Students will engage in exercise workouts that encompass different areas of physical conditioning such as: strength, power, speed, flexibility, balance, agility, coordination and endurance.

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Boot Camp Fitness

A total body conditioning class with a back to basics non-choreographed approach. Traditional calisthenics and exercises, current training techniques and drills are used to improve all components of fitness. A continuation of Boot Camp Fitness I includes fitness workouts with a back to basics approach with higher intensity exercises and workouts.

Personal Fitness Program

A personal fitness program that includes progressive conditioning methods. Training exercises include: stretching, core training, jogging, sprinting, weight lifting and weight training. Also included: calisthenics, isometric and isotonic exercises, plyometrics, footwork agility drills and sport specific exercises. An advanced personal fitness program that includes progressive conditioning methods. Training exercises include: stretching, core training, jogging, sprinting, weight lifting and weight training. Also included: calisthenics, isometric and isotonic exercises, plyometrics, footwork agility drills and sport specific exercises.

Weight Training

An introduction to weight training. Application of the fundamentals of strength training through the use of machine and free weights. Basic anatomy and physiology associated with weight training and safe lifting procedures. Fundamentals of an advanced weight training program. Application of strength training using weight machines and free weights. Anatomy and physiology associated with weight training and safe lifting procedures, along with the design of an individualized strength training program.

Body Sculpting

A toning and conditioning course that utilizes a variety of resistance tools to firm and strengthen the entire body. A continuation of Body Sculpting I includes workouts designed to further improve muscle endurance and tone.

SAQSP (Speed, Agility, Quickness, Strength, and Power)

Physical conditioning theories and drills for improvement in speed, agility, quickness, strength and power (SAQSP). Applications to individual and team sports, plyometrics and other high intensity fitness activities are covered. Speed, agility, quickness, strength, and power workouts for students who compete in individual and team sports and are ready for a higher level of training. Advanced drills and training techniques are used to enhance performance in athletic competitive events. High intensity workouts, functional fitness exercises and specialized skill drills predominate.

Power Lifting

An introductory course in power lifting and training. Basic mechanics of major lifting techniques in the overall Olympic lifts. A continuation of Power Lifting I. The course advances and builds on the techniques and intensity of the work performed in power lifting.

Mind-Body and Wellness Courses

These courses emphasize the connection between physical and mental well-being.

Well-being

This class, offered in conjunction with Alice! Health Promotion, introduces broad concepts related to well-being, such as food-body relationships, stress management, communication skills, and physical activity practices. The class will include in person meetings twice weekly, along with weekly asynchronous exercise and assignments. It is an immersive 12 week course.

Yoga

Yoga fundamentals taught at a slower pace focusing on increasing flexibility through postures, breathing and relaxation/ meditation techniques. Hatha yoga taught with the Iyengar teaching method. This course is an introduction to both Hatha Yoga and Meditation. The course links various asanas (poses) together sequentially to create strength, balance, and flexibility in mind and body. Students will learn basic yoga asana with attention to the breath and form. The kinesthetics of each pose will also be taught, along with how to modify poses correctly for optimum personal performance.

Mindfulness and Movement

This course aims to develop mindfulness by practicing movements and activities that increase body awareness. It will help students gain greater understanding of their bodyâs location in space, movement patterns, strength, and needs, such as nutrition and sleep. This course explores mindfulness and walking in nature. It will include both trips to various local trails, such as in: Central Park, Inwood Park, and Black Rock Forest. Students will also attend Zoom discussions and complete some asynchronous reflections.

Flow Yoga

A subset of hatha yoga, vinyasa flow is series of poses (asanas) joined together to create a smooth flow. Each asana or movement is synchronized with the breath and each movement is connected to the next. A slower moderate pace differentiates this from power yoga. A continuation of Flow Yoga I, with additional sequences; incorporating intermediate level skills or longer duration of poses. Continued emphasis on the connection of breath and movement.

Relaxation and Meditation

A variety of relaxation and meditation techniques are used to enable students to decrease stress, improve focus and develop an everyday peace of mind in the face of today's busy lifestyle.

Stress Management

Exploration of the dimensions, sources, and physiological responses to stress. Emphasis is on the development of skills and techniques for managing stress.

Outdoor Education Courses

These courses provide opportunities to explore and appreciate the natural environment while engaging in physical activity.

Hiking

Students will explore local hikes, ranging from 3-8 miles with varying elevation change. Trips include hikes to Black Rock Forest, Bear Mountain, Sam's Point, among others. Students must attend an online orientation (on Zoom), along with 3 hikes. Registration for hiking dates with the class is required, and these will occur on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October and November (8am-5pm). Students will prepare for and participate in hiking activities in a variety of different environments and terrains. Wilderness survival techniques and environmental issues will also be covered.

Sailing and Kayaking

This course is run through Hudson River Community Sailing at the Chelsea location. Students must attend 4 of 5 dates, and are responsible for transportation to and from the location. This course teaches entry level skills in kayaking. It takes place in the Uris Pool of the Dodge Fitness Center. Students will prepare for and participate in fundamental skills of kayaking, including basic strokes, safety, and kayak camping.

Outdoor Pursuits

Outdoor cycling for recreation and fitness. Riding skills, equipment, training techniques, nutrition and planning for bike trips and/or touring. Bait, spin-casting, still-fishing techniques, equipment care, and general fishing skills and practices. Fundamental skills of canoeing including basic strokes, safety and canoe camping. Basics of backpacking including wilderness survival skills, equipment, conditioning, first aid, environmental issues and etiquette. Students will discover fundamental skills of camping, including expedition planning, camping techniques, navigation, nutrition, environmental issues and etiquette. Students will learn the fundamental skills of snowshoeing, including history, conditioning, safety, and winter camping. An introduction to rock climbing, emphasizing basic skills and techniques. Also included: equipment usage, care of equipment, terminology and safety. Introduction to cross country skiing skills. Skiing techniques, safety methods, winter survival techniques, care of equipment, orienteering and physical conditioning.

Team and Individual Sports Courses

These courses provide instruction and practice in various sports.

Baseball/Softball

An introduction to the development of proper baseball fundamental skills, techniques and strategies. Fundamentals of softball: history, rules, strategy, basic skills of fielding, throwing, batting, pitching, base running, and team offensive and defensive philosophies. An in-depth coverage of advanced softball techniques, position-specific strategies, and game-like situations. Students will enhance knowledge of bookkeeping, subbing, bat, and ball regulations. Prepares students to develop and implement class and practice plans.

Basketball

Beginning basketball emphasizing offensive and defensive fundamentals through team play. The following offensive fundamental skills are included: shooting, passing, ball handling, dribbling and player spacing. The following defensive fundamental skills are also included: body position, footwork, arm movements and court position. Team play is emphasized. Intermediate basketball emphasizing offensive and defensive fundamentals through team play. Offensive skills included are: jump shooting, movement passing, dribbling with both hands and ball handling with faking. Defensive skills included are: body position, advanced footwork, advanced arm movements and court awareness. Team play concepts and strategies are introduced. Instruction covering a breadth of the advanced schemes, positions, and drills utilized at the college and professional levels of play. Students will gain the base competency in offensive, defensive, and special teams play that is required for the contemporary high-level athlete.

Golf

Beginning golf. Topics include: grips, stances, chips, putts, full swings, sand shots and club selection. Irons and woods are both used to develop the rhythm and timing of the swing. Also included are terminology, etiquette, scoring, pace of play and golf safety. Intermediate golf. Progressive development in the fundamental grips, stances and strokes using irons and woods. Swing thoughts, ball flight laws, principles of contact and course management are emphasized. This class is designed for students to continue developing golfing abilities.

Pickleball

Introduction to the skills and practice of pickleball. Serving, forehand drives, volleys, strategies, rules and scoring. Advanced skills, knowledge and strategies of pickleball. Emphasis on volleying, lobbing, net control, and advanced singles and doubles strategies.

Bowling

Introduction to the fundamental skills and techniques of bowling. Etiquette, scoring, game procedure and rules are covered. Prepares students to advance from the level of a recreational bowler to competitive league bowler. Etiquette, scoring, advanced bowling technique, strategy and a review of the rules.

Soccer

Introduction to the fundamental skills and techniques of kicking, heading, passing and trapping. Team play, strategy and review of the rules. A continuation of Soccer I. Soccer II is designed for students with skill and knowledge of the sport. Emphasis placed on intermediate skills, strategies and team play. This class is designed for students to continue developing skills in soccer. Course will meet once weekly in person at the Baker Athletics Complex.

Tennis

Beginning tennis. Topics covered include grips, stances, hitting positions, racquet-face control, forehand, backhand, serve and serve return. Basic tennis rules, scoring and etiquette are also emphasized. Intermediate tennis. Topics covered include forehand, backhand, serve, serve return, volley, overhead shots, approach shots and dump volley skills. Instruction in singles and doubles is strategy-based and emphasizes high-percentage shot-making. Rules, etiquette and doubles communication are also included. This course teaches basic skills in tennis, and will include both skill work and play. Students must bring their own rackets.

Track and Field

Overview of basic techniques used in track and field events. Training principles and methodology for competitive track and field.

Volleyball

Introduction to the basic rules, skills, techniques and strategies of volleyball and their application to game play. Team play and intersquad competition. Advanced skills, techniques and strategies of volleyball and their application to competitive game play. Designed for players with advanced skill and knowledge. Emphasis on team strategies and intersquad competition.

Swimming

Beginning and advanced beginning swimming skills (based on American Red Cross). Water acclimation, floats, glides, kicks, front crawl, combined back stroke, breath control, rhythmic breathing, elementary back stroke, deep water comfort and safety skills. A continuation of Swimming I. Further refinement of front crawl and elementary back stroke. Intermediate and advanced swimming strokes and skills: turns, back stroke, breast stroke, side stroke, butterfly and lap swimming for fitness. Introduction to low impact aquatic aerobic conditioning, emphasizing cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility and endurance conditioning. A continuation of Water Aerobics I. A variety of aquatic exercises to further develop strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness in the water. This class is designed for students with minimal or no experience swimming. This class is designed for students to develop swimming skills and conditioning.

Fencing

This class is designed for students to develop skills in fencing.

Martial Arts Courses

These courses offer training in various martial arts disciplines.

Boxing/Kickboxing

An exercise course that combines boxing, kickboxing, martial arts, aerobics and physical conditioning exercises to enhance cardiovascular and muscular endurance. All done to music. An intermediate cardiovascular endurance activity that combines boxing, kickboxing, martial arts, aerobics, and physical conditioning exercises to further increase skill and endurance.

Karate

This course teaches the principles and techniques of Karate for self-defense, improvement of overall fitness and to give a greater understanding of the art and themselves.

Aikido

A Japanese martial art based on harmony and non-aggression. The learning and performance of basic skills of the activity are stressed. Knowledge and techniques with special emphasis on safety, attitude and etiquette. A continuation of Aikido I. A Japanese martial art based on harmony and non-aggression. The learning and performance of basic skills of the activity are stressed. Knowledge and techniques with special emphasis on safety, attitude and etiquette.

Hapkido

Hapkido is Korean martial art that emphasizes defensive techniques and Ki (inner power) through the coordination of mind and body. Hapkido teaches blocks, kicks and strikes, but emphasizes joint-locking and pressure points. A continuation of Hapkido I. Hapkido is a Korean martial art that emphasizes defensive techniques and Ki (inner power) through the coordination of mind and body. Hapkido teaches blocks, kicks and strikes, but emphasizes joint-locking and pressure points. These skills allow for effective control of an opponent.

JuJutsu

(Miyama Ryu) The art of Japanese Samurai from which judo and aikido were derived. JuJutsu is based on mechanical principles and is used only for defensive purposes. Benefits are improved fitness, coordination and defensive skill training. A continuation of JuJutsu I involves advanced techniques and applications.

Malay Silat

Introduction to personal defense skills. Malaysian martial art form that involves defensive principles, self-awareness, skill and sensitivity training. Encompassing both soft and hard styles, the main emphasis is on self-preservation, deception skills and keeping a low profile. Music and a form of dance are also a part of this practice. A continuation of Malay Silat I. Malay Silat techniques with emphasis on intermediate to advanced level self-defense skills. Also includes the philosophy of the art.

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