Fitness Theory and Practice

Catalog description

Fitness Theory and Practice is a course designed to give the Penn State student a complete understand of the fundamental principles of physical fitness and the skills necessary to implement a personalized fitness program. This course will provide the information and skills needed for the student to organize, plan and implement a complete physical fitness program which can evolve over the lifespan. In this course the Penn State student will acquire the knowledge and critical thinking skills that are essential to the development of a healthful and active lifestyle. Students explore the training principles, health-related components of physical fitness, benefits of these components, and learn to use and apply established fitness guidelines. Students also consider factors which affect their performance in executing a fitness plan such as nutritional concerns, the impact of stress, choice of proper equipment, matching personal goals to proper execution, and personal motivation. In their pursuit of an active and healthy lifestyle, students assess and evaluate their personal health, fitness, and wellness using pre and post intervention strategies, and engage in physical exercise to practice concepts presented in course materials including cardiovascular, flexibility, muscular strength and endurance training techniques. As a first year seminar course, students receive instruction in and introduction to campus resources and receive peer mentoring.