Physical Fitness and Wellness (PFW)

PFW 1101. Lifetime Fitness & Wellness.

This course introduces students to the principles of health-related physical fitness and its role in promoting overall wellness across various populations. Topics include cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition, with an emphasis on both theoretical foundations and effective instructional strategies. Students will participate in practical laboratory activities to assess fitness levels and design, implement, and evaluate an individualized exercise program. Evidence-based guidelines and behavior change strategies are incorporated throughout the course. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate the ability to apply scientifically supported methods for safe, effective, and wide-ranging fitness instruction.

PFW 1110A. Aerobic Conditioning.

This course is designed to develop aerobic conditioning with a primary emphasis on improving cardiovascular fitness through structured group exercise. The scope of the course includes a variety of training formats such as weight training, bootcamp-style workouts, HIIT, and circuit training, allowing students to experience multiple approaches to cardiovascular and muscular endurance development. Instruction is delivered through guided physical activity sessions supplemented by brief lectures and online instructional materials that support understanding of exercise principles. By the end of the course, students are expected to demonstrate improved cardiovascular fitness, increased muscular endurance, and an understanding of how different aerobic training methods contribute to overall physical fitness.

PFW 1110B. Group Fitness.

This course introduces students to group fitness as a structured exercise experience designed to enhance aerobic conditioning and improve overall cardiovascular fitness. The scope of the course includes a variety of class formats such as circuit training, yoga, weight training, boot camp–style workouts, and dance-based fitness, allowing students to experience multiple approaches to group exercise. Instruction is delivered through active participation in classes, supplemented by brief in-person lectures and online learning materials that reinforce key concepts. By the end of the course, students are expected to demonstrate improved cardiovascular endurance, foundational movement skills, and an understanding of safe and effective participation in group fitness settings.

PFW 1110E. Beginning Jogging & Conditioning.

This course examines the biomechanics of jogging and the principles of safe, effective conditioning. The scope includes proper technique, injury prevention, hydration strategies, intensity monitoring, and training approaches for recreational and competitive jogging. Students will learn to design and adapt jogging programs for individuals at varying fitness levels. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate the ability to apply biomechanical and conditioning principles to promote safe and efficient jogging.

PFW 1110G. Beginning Weight Lifting.

This course prepares students to become proficient instructors in all forms of resistance training, emphasizing safe, effective, and biomechanically sound techniques. The scope includes foundational principles of weightlifting, program design for untrained individuals, and adaptations for varied health conditions. Instruction combines lectures, demonstrations, and applied practice to reinforce evidence-based methods. By the end of the course, students will be able to design individualized resistance-training programs that promote safety, efficiency, and long-term fitness outcomes.

PFW 1110K. Restricted Fitness Activities.

This course provides structured participation in individualized fitness activities restricted to specific populations or requiring departmental approval. Students develop personalized exercise programs addressing health considerations, physical limitations, rehabilitation needs, or specialized training goals. Emphasis is placed on safe exercise progression, proper technique, risk management, and adherence to applicable medical or professional guidelines. Instruction includes supervised activity, individualized program planning, and performance monitoring. Students apply individualized training principles to improve physical fitness and support long-term health and wellness through safe and effective participation in fitness activities.

PFW 1130A. Beginning Basketball.

This course introduces students to the fundamental skills, rules, and strategic concepts of basketball. Instruction focuses on essential individual mechanics such as shooting technique, passing accuracy, dribbling control, footwork, and rebounding. Students also examine introductory offensive and defensive systems, including spacing, player movement, and man‑to‑man positioning. Skill development is supported through demonstrations, guided drills, and structured practice activities that emphasize consistency, control, and technical understanding. By the end of the course, students will be able to describe key game concepts, demonstrate foundational basketball skills, and apply basic strategic principles in controlled game‑play situations.

PFW 1130B. Soccer.

This course provides students with a beginning-level understanding of the game of soccer, including fundamental skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending. The scope includes the development of basic technical and tactical abilities, an introduction to game rules and strategies, and the promotion of health-related fitness through cardiovascular activity. Emphasis is placed on skill acquisition, physical conditioning, and safe participation in recreational and game-based environments. Instructional methodology includes demonstrations, drills, small-sided games, and full-field scrimmages to reinforce learning and skill application. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate foundational soccer skills, understand basic game strategies, and recognize the health benefits of regular cardiovascular exercise through participation in soccer activities.

PFW 1140A. Football Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in varsity football the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured athletic engagement. The scope includes sport-specific skill development, strength and conditioning, tactical execution, teamwork, leadership, and adherence to institutional and conference regulations. Emphasis is placed on physical preparation, game strategy, performance analysis, and personal development within a competitive intercollegiate environment. Instructional methodology includes supervised practices, film review, strength and conditioning sessions, team meetings, and intercollegiate competition under the direction of the coaching staff. By the end of the course, students are expected to demonstrate advanced sport-specific competencies, strategic understanding, teamwork, discipline, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletic standards.

PFW 1140B. Basketball–Men’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in men’s varsity basketball the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development, tactical execution, offensive and defensive systems, strength and conditioning, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, film analysis, strategy sessions, performance evaluations, and scheduled competitions under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes basketball performance, strategic decision-making, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1140C. Basketball–Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity basketball the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development, tactical execution, offensive and defensive systems, strength and conditioning, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, film analysis, strategy sessions, performance evaluations, and scheduled competitions under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes basketball performance, strategic decision-making, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1140D. Track & Field–Men’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in varsity track and field the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. The scope includes event-specific technical development (e.g., sprints, distance, jumps, throws), strength and conditioning, performance analytics, competition strategy, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students engage in supervised practices, individualized training programs, film and performance review, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competitions under the direction of the coaching staff. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate advanced technical proficiency, improved physiological performance, strategic competition readiness, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletic standards.

PFW 1140E. Track & Field–Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in varsity track and field the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include event-specific technical development, strength and conditioning, performance analytics, competition strategy, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, individualized training programs, performance review, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competitions under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, physiological performance, competition readiness, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1140F. Volleyball – Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity volleyball the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. The scope includes advanced technical skill development (serving, passing, setting, attacking, blocking, and defensive systems), strength and conditioning, tactical strategy, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students engage in supervised practices, film analysis, team strategy sessions, performance evaluations, and scheduled intercollegiate competitions under the direction of the coaching staff. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate enhanced technical proficiency, tactical decision-making, effective teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletic standards.

PFW 1140G. Baseball–Men’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in men’s varsity baseball the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development in hitting, pitching, fielding, and base running; strength and conditioning; tactical game strategy; performance analytics; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, film and statistical analysis, position-specific instruction, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, strategic game awareness, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1140H. Softball–Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity softball the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development in hitting, pitching, fielding, and base running; strength and conditioning; tactical strategy; performance analytics; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, position-specific instruction, film and statistical analysis, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, strategic decision-making, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1140I. Soccer-Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity soccer the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced technical skill development, tactical systems of play, strength and conditioning, performance analytics, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised training sessions, film and statistical analysis, strategy meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, tactical decision-making, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1149. Strutters.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in the Texas State University Strutters dance team the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured performance-based participation. Course activities include advanced technical dance training, choreography, performance execution, strength and conditioning, teamwork, leadership development, and compliance with institutional and event regulations. Students participate in supervised rehearsals, technique refinement, performance preparation, community appearances, and scheduled athletic and university events under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, performance quality, precision, teamwork, and professional conduct consistent with collegiate dance team standards.

PFW 1150B. Beginning Bowling.

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of bowling, including proper stance, grip, delivery mechanics, lane adjustments, spare shooting, scoring, and league play. The scope includes understanding bowling etiquette, developing consistency in approach and release, adapting to varying lane conditions, and applying strategies for both recreational and competitive settings. Instructional methodology includes instructor demonstrations, skill-building drills, guided practice, and supervised gameplay to reinforce technique, strategy, and scoring proficiency. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate proper bowling mechanics, accurately keep score, apply strategies to make spares, and participate in games and league settings with proper etiquette and confidence.

PFW 1150D. Beginning Golf.

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of golf, including putting, chipping, pitching, full swings with irons and woods, and bunker play. The scope includes understanding and using golf equipment, learning the rules and scoring systems, practicing proper course etiquette, and exploring the historical development of the sport. Emphasis is placed on developing technical proficiency, strategic course management, and an appreciation for golf as a lifetime recreational activity. Instructional methodology includes instructor demonstrations, skill drills, supervised practice sessions, and on-course application to reinforce technique and strategic decision-making. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate improved swing mechanics, apply basic strategies effectively, follow official rules and etiquette, and exhibit confidence and consistency in recreational play.

PFW 1150G. Restricted Leisure Activities.

This course provides structured participation in individualized fitness or leisure activities restricted to specific populations or requiring departmental approval. Students develop personalized exercise programs addressing health considerations, physical limitations, rehabilitation needs, or specialized training goals. Emphasis is placed on safe exercise progression, proper technique, risk management, and adherence to applicable medical or professional guidelines. Instruction includes supervised activity, individualized program planning, and performance monitoring. Students apply individualized training principles to improve physical fitness and support long-term health and wellness through safe and effective participation in fitness or leisure activities.

PFW 1154C. Backpacking.

This course provides students with an introduction to backpacking, emphasizing practical skills and knowledge necessary for safe and responsible backcountry travel. The scope includes gear selection, food preparation, equipment use, safety protocols, first aid, and backcountry navigation techniques. Students will also explore environmental stewardship through the principles of Leave No Trace, including strategies to minimize ecological impact while hiking and camping. Instructional methodology includes guided discussions, hands-on demonstrations, skill practice, and application of techniques during supervised backpacking trips. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate competency in planning and executing safe backpacking trips, apply Leave No Trace principles effectively, and utilize essential outdoor skills to navigate and manage risks in backcountry environments.

PFW 1155G. Racquetball.

This course introduces foundational skills, rules, and strategies of racquetball with emphasis on safe and competitive play. Students develop technical abilities including serving, volleying, and court positioning while examining sportsmanship, game strategy, and scoring systems. The course includes multiple game formats that support cardiovascular fitness, agility, and wellness. Instructional methods include demonstrations, drills, and structured gameplay to reinforce skill development and strategic understanding. Students apply racquetball techniques and strategies during gameplay while examining the health benefits associated with regular participation in racquetball activities.

PFW 1155H. Beginning Tennis.

This course provides an introductory exploration of tennis at the beginner skill level, focusing on the development of foundational technical, tactical, and regulatory knowledge. The scope includes proper grip, forehand and backhand strokes, serving mechanics, footwork, rules, scoring systems, and basic match play strategies. Students will also gain an understanding of the physical fitness benefits associated with participation in tennis, including cardiovascular conditioning, coordination, and agility. Instructional methodology combines instructor-led demonstrations, guided practice, skill drills, and modified game scenarios to reinforce learning and promote skill acquisition. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate fundamental tennis techniques, apply basic strategies in gameplay, and recognize the health and fitness benefits of regular participation in the sport.

PFW 1155N. Pocket Billiards.

This course introduces fundamental techniques, rule systems, and strategic components of pocket billiards while promoting active participation across skill levels. Students develop proper stance and cue mechanics, shot selection, ball control, positioning strategies, and understanding of common game formats and scoring systems. Emphasis is placed on precision, focus, strategic thinking, and sportsmanship within recreational and competitive contexts. Instruction includes guided demonstrations, structured practice, skill drills, and supervised gameplay to reinforce technical and tactical development. Students apply basic game strategies and demonstrate understanding of rules and etiquette associated with pocket billiards.

PFW 1160B. Beginning Volleyball.

This course provides an introduction to fundamental volleyball skills, rules, and strategies. Students develop technical skills in passing, setting, serving, serve receive, hitting, and blocking while examining official rules, scoring procedures, and basic officiating principles. The course includes tactical application of skills in game and tournament situations with emphasis on teamwork, communication, and strategic decision-making. Instructional methods include demonstrations, skill drills, guided practice, and structured gameplay to reinforce skill acquisition and officiating knowledge. Students apply volleyball strategies and demonstrate understanding of officiating and scoring in practice and competitive settings.

PFW 1165A. Golf–Men’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in men’s varsity golf the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development in driving, iron play, short game, and putting; course management; strength and conditioning; mental skills training; performance analytics; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, video and statistical performance analysis, individualized instruction, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, strategic play, competitive readiness, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1165C. Tennis–Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity tennis the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced technical skill development in serving, groundstrokes, net play, and match strategy; singles and doubles tactics; strength and conditioning; mental skills training; performance analytics; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, video and statistical performance analysis, individualized instruction, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, strategic match awareness, competitive performance, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1165D. Golf – Women’s Varsity.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in women’s varsity golf the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development in driving, iron play, short game, and putting; course management; strength and conditioning; mental skills training; performance analytics; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, video and statistical performance analysis, individualized instruction, team meetings, and scheduled intercollegiate competition under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, strategic play, competitive readiness, teamwork, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1165E. Varsity Cheerleaders.

This course provides undergraduate students participating in varsity cheerleading the opportunity to earn academic credit through structured intercollegiate athletic participation. Course activities include advanced skill development in stunting, tumbling, jumps, motion technique, choreography, crowd leadership, and game-day performance; strength and conditioning; injury prevention; performance analysis; leadership development; and compliance with institutional and conference regulations. Students participate in supervised practices, choreography sessions, strength training, team meetings, sideline performances, and scheduled competitive events under the direction of coaching staff. The course emphasizes technical proficiency, performance precision, teamwork, leadership, and personal accountability consistent with collegiate varsity athletics.

PFW 1190A. Canoeing.

This course introduces students to the art and science of canoeing as a lifetime sport and fitness activity. The scope includes instruction in tandem and solo paddling techniques, optimal body positioning, paddle shaft and blade angles, stroke efficiency, and maneuvering in moving water environments. Students develop skills necessary for navigating strong currents and, when appropriate, introductory whitewater conditions. Emphasis is placed on full-body conditioning, teamwork, communication, situational awareness, and adherence to established safety standards. Instructional methodology includes on-water skill progression, guided practice, instructor feedback, and supervised application in dynamic river settings. By the conclusion of the course, students are expected to demonstrate efficient paddling mechanics, sound decision-making in moving water, effective teamwork, and safe participation consistent with responsible outdoor recreation practices.

PFW 1190F. Beginning Scuba.

This course provides laboratory instruction in Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) diving in conjunction with the companion lecture and prepares students for National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) Open Water Diver certification. The course covers foundational knowledge and skills required for safe open water diving, including equipment use, dive theory, emergency procedures, and environmental considerations. Instruction includes classroom learning, confined water skill development, and supervised open water experiences. Students demonstrate competency in open water diving practices consistent with established training parameters and safety standards applicable to entry-level SCUBA certification.

PFW 1201. Advanced and Master Scuba Diving.

This course provides advanced instruction as a continuation of beginning scuba training, expanding students’ technical proficiency, situational awareness, and leadership capacity in diverse aquatic environments. Emphasis is placed on natural and compass navigation, structured search patterns, light salvage techniques, night diving procedures, deep diving theory and application, current diving strategies, and advanced rescue methods. Students refine decision-making and risk management skills while operating in area lakes and rivers under varied environmental conditions. Instruction includes approximately 24 hours of classroom engagement and extensive supervised open-water experience. Upon completion, students will demonstrate competency in planning and executing complex dives while adhering to recognized safety and operational standards. Prerequisite: PFW 1190F with a grade of "D" or better.

PFW 1204. Underwater Photography.

This course introduces students to the foundational knowledge and practical skills required for underwater photography. Emphasis is placed on camera equipment selection and maintenance, lighting principles, composition techniques, buoyancy control for imaging stability, and environmental awareness. Students explore both technical and artistic components of capturing images in aquatic settings. Instruction combines classroom discussion with supervised in-water practice, culminating in a field-based photography experience and structured image critique. Upon completion, students will demonstrate the ability to safely operate underwater photography equipment and produce technically sound, compositionally effective underwater images. Prerequisite: PFW 1190 - Beginning Scuba Diver or valid OW certification from an approved agency.

PFW 1301. Social and Behavioral Dimensions of Physical Fitness and Wellness.

This course investigates how physical activity is associated with health and productivity across various settings. Students analyze environmental, interpersonal, and behavioral factors influencing participation and motivation. Through examination of empirical research and contextual variables, students assess how physical activity relates to individual wellness and broader social outcomes. The course emphasizes evaluating evidence and perspectives on the role of physical activity in shaping health-related behaviors and societal functioning.

PFW 2301. Rescue SCUBA Diver /Diving First Aid for Professional Divers.

This course trains divers in the knowledge and skills needed to manage risks and effectively handle limited in-water problems and diving-related emergencies. The rescue portion includes assists, transports, surface rescues and rescues from depth involving both boat- and shore-based skin and scuba divers. The first aid portion includes duty of care and emotional response, dive emergency preparation, response and assessment, Oxygen first aid, AED, CPR for the healthcare professional, secondary care, and hazardous marine life injuries/first aid. Students with a SCUBA Diver or Advanced SCUBA Diver certification from another agency or institution will be accepted provided the student's diving experience is current. Prerequisite: PFW 1190F or PFW 1201 or equivalent any with a grade of "C" or better.