Skip to Content

Physical Fitness and Wellness (PFW) Courses


Physical Fitness and Wellness (PFW) Courses 

Extensive research has documented strong associations between physical activity/exercise and cognitive performance, physical performance, disease prevention, and a reduction in all-cause mortality. Each semester about 1,800 students participate in over 30 physical activities and courses. Students can choose from a wide variety of activities in PFW classes taught both on campus and off-campus. GE credit (PFW 1301 Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Physical Fitness and Wellness) and interesting activities are available like: Aerobics, Backpacking, Basketball, Canoeing, Fitness and Wellness, Fencing, Golf, Cross-Training, Jogging and Conditioning, Karate, Military Physical Fitness Training, Racquetball, Ranger Challenge Training, Scuba, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball, and Weight Lifting.

PFW classes utilize the latest research in Exercise and Sports Science and technology to support instruction and improve student learning. Questions about the program should be directed to:

Stacy Bender

Jowers A149

512-245-8357

Sh1564@txstate.edu

The overall goal of the PFW Program is to support academic excellence for all students by experiencing and learning about the health and wellness benefits of exercise (programmed physical activity).

Specific Educational Goals:

Students in PFW activity classes will:

  • Be able to successfully perform at a level that ensures enjoyment, safety, and health benefits for fitness and leisure activities over a lifetime.
  • Be able to correctly and safely perform all skills necessary for regular participation and enjoyment of the game or activity.
  • Have engaged in sufficient activity over the course of the semester to improve health-related components of fitness, e.g., cardio respiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition.
  • Understand basic strategies, rules, etiquette, and sportsmanship appropriate for the participation in a variety of activities.
  • Develop positive self-management and social skills needed to work independently or with others in physical activity and work settings.
  • Adopt positive lifestyle behaviors and attitudes that will lead to such health outcomes as weight control, positive body image, and reduced stress.

The majority of the PFW classes are designed to be 50 minutes in length two times per week, however there are classes conducted once per week and last for one hour and forty minutes. The PFW program offers classes that are conducted at off campus facilities and will require an additional expense above the normal tuition expense. See course listings on the sidebar and on CATSWEB to obtain the exact cost. Please be sure to read the course description for specifics.

All students enrolled in a PFW class will have optional access to locks, lockers, uniforms and equipment. These items can be accessed through the equipment and laundry room of the Jowers Center and can be obtained by presenting your student ID.

ESS 1100 Activity Courses

The PFW program is an integral part of the academic program of several majors within the Department of Health and Human Performance, particularly Exercise and Sports Science (ESS) and the Athletic Training (AT) divisions. ESS 1100 activity classes serve the over 2000 undergraduate majors in the department. In addition to having the same educational goals as stated for the PFW program, ESS activity courses also teach students:

  • How to effectively relay activity-related information to others.
  • How to create a positive, non-threatening environment that encourages physical activity.
  • How to implement and manage safe and physical activities.
  • The importance of modeling positive health-related behaviors and attitudes.