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PFW Course Descriptions


PFW Course Descriptions


*PFW 1101 Lifetime Fitness and Wellness

This purpose of this course is to help students of all fitness levels develop a solid foundation of training principles and guidelines for flexibility, fitness and wellness components and misconceptions, nutrition, weight control, stress management, and contemporary health issues. Specifically, this course will explore hatha yoga postures, principles of movement and balance in yoga, breathing techniques, meditation techniques, stress reduction, and relaxation. Upon the completion of the course students will have developed a working knowledge of the benefits of exercise and a physically active lifestyle, and developed physical activity behaviors associated with a lifetime of personal fitness and wellness.


*PFW 1110A Aerobic Conditioning

The purpose of this course is to help students improve personal fitness and health as they learn the fundamentals of a safe and effective aerobics program. This is an exercise class geared towards aerobics conditioning with an emphasis on increasing cardiovascular fitness. Students will be exposed to a variety of fitness activities, including but not limited to: hi/low, step aerobics, kickboxing and resistance training. Upon the completion of the course students will have knowledge of the lifetime benefits of aerobic exercise, knowledge of health related fitness components, and awareness of proper safety techniques.


*PFW 1110B Group Fitness

The purpose of this course is to help students improve personal fitness and health through participating in a safe and effective group fitness. This is an exercise class geared towards a moderate to vigorous aerobics conditioning program with an emphasis on increasing cardiovascular fitness. Students will be exposed to a variety of fitness activities, including but not limited to: hi/low, step aerobics, kickboxing and resistance training. There is also an emphasis on student choreography and leadership. Students will be required to create and teach their on combination routines in hi/low or step aerobics. Upon the completion of the course students will have knowledge of the lifetime benefits of aerobic exercise, knowledge of health related fitness components, and awareness of proper safety techniques.


*PFW 1110E Beginning Jogging and Conditioning

The purpose of this course is to help students improve personal fitness and health through active participation in a safe and effective jogging and conditioning program. Students will learn the lifetime benefits of walking & jogging and the health related components of fitness. Correct biomechanical movements will be emphasized along with fitness and health improvements for all students. Upon completion of the course the students will understand the importance of proper safety techniques and the cardiovascular benefits of activities associated with jogging and conditioning.


*PFW 1110E Beginning Jogging and Conditioning (Emphasis on Walking)

The purpose of this course is to help students improve personal fitness and health through active participation in a safe and effective walking and conditioning course. Students will learn and participate in the health related fitness components associated with walking. Personal fitness and health improvements will be targeted and evaluated. Upon completion of the course the students will understand the importance of proper safety practices, correct walking biomechanics, techniques for varying speeds and the cardiovascular benefits of specific types of walking and conditioning activities.


*PFW 1110G Beginning Wt. Training

The purpose of this course is to help beginners build a solid foundation of current knowledge and experience in beginning weight training and prepare them for a lifetime of healthy weight training practices. This course will include the teaching of proper technique and safety practices for more than 50 strength training exercises designed to work all major muscle groups, a basic understanding of the physiological and anatomical concepts necessary to understand weight training, an understanding of the many health benefits associated with weight training, nutritional considerations and weight training myths. Upon the completion of the course the student will have learned how to perform resistance exercises, conducted and interpreted strength assessments and learned how to plan and design a personal strength-training program.


PFW 1110K Restricted Fit Activities (Special Approval Needed)

The purpose of this course is to accommodate special needs students with their pursuit of healthy fitness activities. Students will need to contact the PFW office and apply for approval into the class. The course is not conducted in a set environment or at a set time.


*PFW 1130A Beginning Basketball

The purpose of this course is to help students gain proficient skills and knowledge of the game of basketball. This is an introductory course for students with limited or no playing experience. Instruction will include techniques for ball handling, passing, dribbling, rebounding, shooting, offense, and defense. The course is arranged to familiarize students with the rules, terminology, offensive and defensive strategies, team organization, communication, game play, and conditioning for basketball. Upon the completion of the course students will be able to demonstrate the basic fundamental skills in basketball, explain the benefits of basketball as a lifetime activity for health related fitness, and apply the basic rules and terminology to recreational basketball.


PFW 1130B Soccer

The purpose of this course is to provide students with a beginning-level understanding of the game of soccer. Basic skills will be taught and practiced through demonstrations, drills, small-sided and full-field games. Students will also gain an understanding of health related fitness and the health benefits of cardiovascular exercise including soccer.


PFW 1301 Behavioral and Social Dimensions of Physical Activity and Wellness

The purpose of this course is to explore the role of physical activity and wellness within a social and behavioral context. Students will explore individual, social, and cultural values and beliefs that influence physical activity and wellness. Various theories and research methodologies of social science will be explored.


*PFW 1150B Beginning Bowling (Off Campus)

The purpose of this course is to help everyone build a solid foundation in the mechanics and skill of the lifetime sport of bowling. This course will include teaching the proper technique of bowling, the selection of the equipment, the playing of the lanes, keeping score and proper etiquette of the game. It will also include team and individual competition, league and tournament play.

You will bowl two games each day on a different lane and with different classmates. By the end of the course you should have the knowledge and confidence in your game to enjoy bowling with anyone for a lifetime. An additional fee of $72 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
Sunset Bowling Lanes
1304 Hwy 123
San Marcos, Texas 78666
512.396.2334


*PFW 1150D Beginning Golf

The purpose of this course is to familiarize the beginning golfer with the game of golf, rules of golf, and how to properly swing a golf club! The instructors make this course a fun introduction to the game and help you progress into a better golfer. With one practice day, and one instruction day a week from a certified Class A PGA Professional, you will see results!

This intro course starts with putting, short game, then moves on to full swing and bunker play. Golf is a great physical activity and will also give you a leg up in the business world! The class is held OFF CAMPUS at Southwest Golf Range located at 1301 Hwy 80 East- just passed Wal-Mart on the right! There are no TSU buses that run to the driving range so transportation or carpooling is a must. All clubs are provided. An additional fee of $80 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
Southwest Golf Range
John Whitby
1301 Hwy 80
San Marcos, Texas 78666
512-754-007


*PFW 1150G Restricted Leisure Activities (Special Approval Needed)

The purpose of this course is to accommodate special needs students with their pursuit of healthy leisure activities. Students will need to contact the PFW office and apply for approval into the class. The course is not conducted in a set environment or at a set time.


PFW 1154B Challenge Course “Lows” (Off-Campus)

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the basic concepts associated with a Challenge Course experience involving Low Elements and Portable Initiatives, such as Challenge By Choice, Full Value Contract, and Spotting Guidelines. Students will learn how to organize, facilitate and process both Low Elements and Portable Initiatives through instruction as well as hands-on experience on the elements. Students will also learn and practice the safety and risk management issues related to Challenge Course activities. Low Elements—meets 2 Wednesdays on campus and 3-4 weekend days on the Texas State University Challenge Course located at University Camp near Wimberley, Texas. An additional fee of $95 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
Marla Burns
512-626-1550


PFW 1154B Challenge Course “Highs” (Off-Campus)

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the basic concepts associated with a Challenge Course experience involving High Elements. Students will learn and practice the safety and risk management issues related to Challenge Course activities. Students will also learn how to safely belay climbers and other Challenge Course participants, how to set up and take down Challenge Course elements, as well as how to facilitate elements including the Power Pole, Zipline, Balance Beam, Screamer and Grapevine. Students will also have opportunity for hands-on experience on all of the High Elements. High Elements—meets 2 Wednesdays on campus and 3-4 weekend days on the Texas State University Challenge Course located at University Camp near Wimberley, Texas. An additional fee of $95 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
Marla Burns
512-626-1550


*PFW 1154C Backpacking (Off-Campus)

The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the basic components of backpacking, including: understanding the differences between car camping and backpacking in primitive areas, trip planning and preparation, selection and proper use of various types of backpacking equipment, basic map and compass skills/basic orienteering skills, and minimal impact camping. Students will gain hands-on experience with the use of backpacking stoves and fuels, water purification, selecting the best campsite, Leave No Trace Principles, staying safe in the back country and other basic backpacking skills while spending a weekend in the back country of Lost Maples State Natural Area. Basics of Backpacking—meet 5 Wednesdays and 1 weekend backpacking trip to Lost Maples State Natural Area.  An additional fee of $120 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
Marla Burns
512-626-1550


*PFW 1155G Racquetball

The purpose of the course is to teach students the fundamental skills of the sport and its relationship to lifetime fitness, wellness and general motor development. This course will also provide the student with the necessary skills, tactics, techniques, and rules of the sport of racquetball. Students will be provided with both a cognitive and physical comprehension of the sport of racquetball and appreciation of the sport as a viable lifetime activity. Upon the completion of the course students will be able to demonstrate the basic fundamental skills in racquetball, explain the benefits of racquetball as a lifetime activity for health related fitness, and apply the basic rules and terminology to recreational racquetball.


*PFW 1155N Pocket Billiards (Off-Campus)

The purpose of this class is to introduce the history of billiards, billiard terminology, rules/regulations, equipment, specifications, table dynamics, and mathematical principles as applies to pocket billiards. The curriculum is a comprehensive overview that will equip the student with fundamentals, techniques, and systems that can be used and improved upon lifelong regardless of current skill level. Each class consists of a lecture and practical application section along with one on one analysis and evaluation.

An additional fee of $50 is required to take the course.


*PFW 1160B Beginning Volleyball

The purpose of this course is to help students gain proficient skills and knowledge of the game of volleyball. This is an introductory course for those with limited or no playing experience. Instruction will include techniques for passing, setting, serving, serve receive, hitting, blocking, digging, and transition. The course is arranged to familiarize students with the rules, terminology, offensive and defensive strategies, team organization, communication, game play, and conditioning for volleyball. Upon the completion of the course students will be able to demonstrate the basic fundamental skills in volleyball, explain the benefits of volleyball as a lifetime activity for health related fitness, and apply the basic rules and terminology to recreational volleyball.


*PFW 1160C Intermediate Volleyball

The purpose of this course is to provide students who have previous volleyball playing experience a review of the basic fundamentals of volleyball, proper conditioning for volleyball, and various tournament situations. Students will learn advanced concepts in team strategy through offense and defense with varying defensive and offensive systems. Upon the completion of the course students will be able to soundly demonstrate the basic fundamental skills in volleyball, explain the benefits of volleyball as a lifetime activity for health related fitness, apply basic rules, terminology, and strategies for competitive play.


*PFW 1190A Beginning Canoeing

The purpose of this course is to instruct students in beginning canoe sport participation and to help them build skills to allow them to pursue this lifetime sport and fitness activity. This course includes basic instruction in the mechanics of proper tandem and solo paddling technique, focusing on proper positioning of paddler and paddle shaft & blade angles so as to maximize the efficiency of the stroke and utilize the full-body workout capabilities of this exciting recreational sport. The significant fitness benefits of this sport are obvious and emphasized; increased heart-rate levels are noted/discussed, as well as the primary & secondary muscle group use. This is a physically demanding class. Students gain knowledge on the water in mostly swift water and some whitewater paddling conditions -- this teaching environment demands communication, teamwork, good mechanics and technique. In addition, all efforts are made to emphasize awareness of all safety standards and structures, as well as to promote healthy and smart participation and good judgment. Upon completion of the course students will be able to safely participate in a variety of canoeing activities for a lifetime of fitness and recreation.


*PFW 1190B Beginning Swimming

The purpose of this class is to introduce a novice swimmer to aquatics. It is a class conducted in the water with an emphasis on basic skills for swimming and for acquiring minimum skill levels in the 5 basic stokes. Diving, flip turns, use of kick boards and other equipment will be introduced and encouraged during the semester. Lifetime fitness will be introduced as well. The student will be introduced to deep water and experience it either aided by a floatation device or unaided. Safety in and around the pool will be stressed. Breathing is such an important skill while swimming it will be emphasized repeatedly and practiced continuously. Hydrodynamic principles will be demonstrated and copied so the student will be able to utilize these principles as they become more proficient in the water. Upon completion of the course the student should be able to identify the five basic strokes and be able to perform at least 3 of these strokes with some level of comfort.


*PFW 1190C Intermediate Swimming

The purpose of this course is to improve health related benefits such as cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance and strength and flexibility through moderate to vigorous swimming activities. This is an exercise class conducted in the water with an emphasis on health benefits while enhancing knowledge and skill levels in the 5 basic strokes. It is structured for the student who knows how to swim but would like to improve his knowledge and ability in all of the basic strokes and to explore some of the more advanced strokes and techniques. The student should increase the distance they are able to swim each of the strokes covered and demonstrate the proper stroke techniques in all of them. There will be discussion on lifetime fitness and how swimming can successfully fit into the students’ future. Proper breathing patterns will be addressed and practiced. Upon completion of the course the student should show improvement in the technical aspects of the strokes as well as improved fitness levels.


*PFW 1190 Beginning Scuba Diving

The purpose of the course is to prepare students for an open water diver certification. This course consists of approximately 12 hours of classroom lecture, 12 hours of swimming pool time, and 10 hours of open water dive time in area lakes. All course content meet international standards for scuba diver certification. All necessary equipment is supplied. The student needs to be comfortable in the water with no swim aids. An additional fee of $215 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
The Dive Shop
1911 RR 12
San Marcos, Texas 78666
512-396-3483


*PFW1201 Advanced Scuba Diving

This course is a continuation of the beginning scuba diving course with approximately 24 hours of classroom time and 16 open water dives in area lakes and rivers. Diving subjects include natural navigation, compass navigation, search patterns, light salvage techniques, night diving, deep diving, current diving, and rescue techniques. Students must provide their own mask, fins, snorkel, weight belt, weight, knife and compass. An additional fee of $215 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
The Dive Shop
1911 RR 12
San Marcos, Texas 78666
512-396-3483


*PFW 1204 Underwater Photography

The purpose of the course is to introduce students to underwater photography scenes, equipment, and techniques with the objective of creating quality underwater photographs. Both film and digital equipment are used. Classroom topics cover technical issues of film, digital, strobe lighting, natural light photography, composition, and underwater modeling. All equipment, both scuba and photography, is furnished. Scuba diver certification is a prerequisite. An additional fee of $215 is required to take the course.

For more information contact:
The Dive Shop
1911 RR 12
San Marcos, Texas 78666
512-396-3483