Department of Exercise and Sport Science
Introduction
The mission of the Department of Exercise and Sport Science is to discover and promote knowledge of human movement to improve quality of life.
Exercise and sport science examines the anatomy, physics, physiology, and psychology of sport and exercise. The general major provides foundational courses in exercise science that prepares students for many paths. Students interested in sport administration can build a foundation in the management of sport, and explore career options related to amateur, interscholastic, or professional sport operation and business. The fitness professional program is designed to prepare students for careers in a variety of health-related fields, including but not limited to entry-level positions in the health-fitness industry; personal training of amateur, professional, and recreational athletes; exercise therapy for a range of clinical conditions; or graduate study in exercise physiology. Other career options for majors include strength-conditioning coach for an athletic team; exercise research within the athletic, medical, or pharmaceutical industries; or fitness club entrepreneur. By choosing additional courses, students can apply to schools of physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, public health, nursing, or medicine.
Advising
All majors and minors have a primary academic advisor from the Academic Advising Program. Students are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with their advisor and review their Tar Heel Tracker each semester. In the Department of Exercise and Sport Science four faculty members serve as advisors with weekly office hours (see "Programs" above and contact information on the website). The department communicates via a listserv, Facebook posts, tweets, blog posts, classroom “advising” visits, bulletin boards/video boards throughout the building, and the departmental website. Departmental academic advising is particularly important for those majors who are considering graduate school. Further information on courses, undergraduate research opportunities, the honors program, careers, and graduate schools may be obtained from the department’s website.
Facilities
In addition to classroom space and physical activity area, Fetzer Hall, Woollen Gym, and Stallings-Evans Sports Medicine Center house several well-equipped research and teaching laboratories:
- The Applied Physiology Laboratory is fully equipped to measure metabolism, body composition, and aerobic fitness. Additionally, it houses a chemistry laboratory to study the biochemistry of exercise.
- The Cadaver Anatomy Laboratory is designed to teach cadaver dissection in order to gain a greater knowledge about how the human body works in an athletic environment.
- The Exercise Science Teaching Laboratory was specifically designed for teaching exercise science laboratory experiences as well as clinical exercise testing experiences.
- The MOTION Science Institute, comprised of four research laboratories (Motion Analysis Laboratory, Neuromuscular Assessment Laboratory, Gait Biomechanics Laboratory, and Psychology of Sport Injury Laboratory), is fully equipped to evaluate neuromuscular function, biomechanics, and psychological factors associated with musculoskeletal injury prevention.
- The CPR Laboratory is a teaching laboratory for CPR and first aid skills. The laboratory is equipped with mannequins, AED trainers, and first aid equipment.
- The Exercise Oncology Laboratory is equipped with the latest technology for the assessment of cardiorespiratory and pulmonary function, body composition, cognitive function, electrocardiogram monitoring capability, and evaluation of heart rate coherence and heart rate variability in oncology patients.
- Through its clinical and research initiatives, the Matthew Gfeller Sport-Related Traumatic Brain Injury Research Center demonstrates its commitment to providing the highest level of care for athletes of all ages suffering from sport-related brain injuries, and to assisting parents, coaches, and medical professionals in managing these athletes.
- The Athletic Training Teaching Laboratory is designed for students to practice evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation skills. It is equipped with treatment tables, evaluation tools, rehabilitation supplies such as foam rollers, exercises balls, and taping supplies.
- The Cardiometabolic Laboratory investigates: the interactions between lifestyle behaviors and cardiometabolic health with a particular interest in sedentary behavior and young adults, the development and interpretation of methodologies for assessing cardiometabolic health, and the translation of basic and applied science in regards to public health outcomes.
Graduate School and Career Opportunities
Many undergraduate exercise and sport science majors are preparing for graduate work in related areas: exercise physiology, physical therapy, sports medicine, nutrition, athletic training, sports administration/management, etc. They will be well-prepared for master’s and doctoral programs, and graduate assistantships in these areas at UNC–Chapel Hill and other large universities. Numerous career opportunities exist in a variety of fields directly related to sport and exercise. Some graduates go directly into health/fitness/sport-related employment. Others attend professional schools or pursue advanced academic degrees.
Majors
- Exercise and Sport Science Major, B.A.–General
- Exercise and Sport Science Major, B.A.–Fitness Professional
- Exercise and Sport Science Major, B.A.–Sport Administration
- Exercise and Sport Science Major, B.S.
Minors
Graduate Program
Professors
Claudio L. Battaglini, J. Troy Blackburn, Anthony C. Hackney, Jason P. Mihalik, Barbara Osborne, Darin A. Padua, Brian G. Pietrosimone, William E. Prentice, Eric D. Ryan, Abbie E. Smith-Ryan, Erianne A. Weight.
Associate Professors
Erik D. Hanson, Jonathan A. Jensen, Zachary Y. Kerr, Kristen L. Kucera, Micheal D. Lewek, Nels K. Popp, Johna Register-Mihalik, Lee Stoner, Erik A. Wikstrom.
Assistant Professors
Shelby E. Baez, Malia Blue, Jimikaye B. Courtney, Adam C. Kiefer.
Teaching Professors
Alain J. Aguilar, Meredith A. Petschauer.
Teaching Associate Professors
J.D. DeFreese, Angela Pratt.
Teaching Assistant Professors
Rebecca L. Battaglini, Benjamin M. Goerger, Wayne McDonnell Jr., Aliza K. Nedimyer, Kristin S. Ondrak, Anthony F. Patterson.
Research Associate Professor
Wesley R. Cole.
Research Assistant Professor
Gena R. Gerstner.
Lecturers
Bradley Bates, John Brunner, Anthony Cosby, Greg Moore, Sherry Norris, Leon R. Schimmelfing, James Strong, Nina Walker, Sunny Yu.
Postdoctoral Research Associates
Thomas Birchmeier, Aiden Chauntry, Katherine Collins, Daniel Corry, Hyunwook Lee, Aaron Sinnott, Jeb Struder.
Professor of the Practice
Richard A. Baddour.
Professors Emeriti
M. Deborah Bialeschki, John E. Billing, Bonita L. Marks, Robert G. McMurray, Frederick O. Mueller, John M. Silva.
Teaching Professor Emerita
Sherry Salyer.
Adjunct Professors
David J. Berkoff, Deborah L. Givens, Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Stephen W. Marshall, Karen L. McCulloch, Todd Schwartz.
Adjunct Associate Professors
Kevin Carneiro, Vicki S. Mercer.
Adjunct Assistant Professors
Avinash Chandran, Shawn Kane, Michael Mazzoleni.
Courses
EXSS–Exercise and Sport Science
Undergraduate-level Courses
The technique and vocabulary of classical ballet are presented. Exercises at the barre are followed by practice and combinations in the center. Previously offered as PHYA 208.
This course is an introduction to the positions, exercises, and steps common to ballet, jazz, and modern dance. It is designed for students with no previous dance experience and is a prerequisite for EXSS 10, 12, and 13. Previously offered as PHYA 212.
Students will explore the principles of movement that define modern dance, gaining some understanding of the use of weight, the shape of the body in space, an awareness of timing and energy, and individual creative potential. Previously offered as PHYA 224.
Students will explore the roots of the jazz style through rhythm, principles of isolation and opposition, shape and energy through center work, stretches, movement across the floor, and simple routines. Previous ballet training is highly recommended. Previously offered as PHYA 220.
The basic step patterns of popular social dances, such as fox trot, waltz, cha-cha, swing or shag, hustle, tango, and others are taught. Confidence in the ability to lead or to follow is developed. Social enjoyment of dance is emphasized. Previously offered as PHYA 231.
For the dancer with a solid understanding of the basics of ballet and several years' dance training. It emphasizes more sophisticated steps in longer combinations. Previously offered as PHYA 308.
Students will explore the jazz style in greater complexity plus gain understanding of jazz music as it relates to jazz dance. It includes center work, complex movement phrases across floor, adagio, and routines using large movement vocabulary. At least two years of dance and familiarity with jazz style are recommended. Previously offered as PHYA 320.
Students will work to develop greater technical skill and continue a more advanced exploration of modern dance principles of effort-shape through center work and phrases of greater length and complexity in the center and across the floor. At least two years of modern dance training are recommended. Previously offered as PHYA 324.
For the dancer with substantial background in ballet. Speed, endurance, multiple turns, beats, and complicated combinations are emphasized. Previously offered as PHYA 408.
This course is designed for the dancer with a solid understanding of the principles underlying modern dance and several years of dance training. It focuses on longer and more complicated phases of movements. Previously offered as PHYA 424.
This course will examine the American ethos by looking at those who have been discriminated against in sport because of race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
This course will provide students an introduction to the practical entrepreneurial business tools for starting a new business (or for use in an existing organization) in the human performance and/or sport industry.
The human brain remains one of the greatest anatomical and physiological mysteries remaining for us to explore. Containing over 100 billion neurons, each with 1,000-10,000 synapses, the human brain serves as the hub of everything we do. The most sophisticated 'computer' in existence, this course will provide first year students from all majors with an interdisciplinary approach to studying the human brain. Discussions will explore topics including anatomy, neurodevelopment, decision-making, maturation, disease, and more. Honors version available.
This first year seminar is designed to discuss the limits of human performance and equipment that is engineered to enhance performance. How fast is it possible to run or swim? Will Olympic records continue to be broken? When do we reach our full athletic potential? This course is designed to challenge your thinking about performance using the science that governs biomechanics and human physiology as well as exploring the data that drives equipment development.
Course content will vary each semester. Honors version available.
Elective, open to all students. This course examines basic wellness concepts in the areas of physical fitness, nutrition, disease prevention, mental health, drug abuse, and human sexuality. Emphasis is on the individual's responsibility for his/her own health.
This course is targeted to students enrolled in Department of Exercise and Sport Science majors as well as other students with interest in medical professions. This course involves a systematic approach to human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on the musculoskeletal, articular and nervous systems as well as anatomical terminology and homeostasis. No prerequisites are required. Honors version available.
The study of the structure of the human body with special emphasis on the musculoskeletal, articular, and nervous systems. Prosected cadaver materials are utilized to study the skeletal muscles and body viscera.
This course is designed to examine of the role of physical activity/inactivity on the health and well-being of American society. Through reading, discussion, writing and critical thinking, students will explore what it means to be physically active, the importance of physical activity, and some of the barriers and facilitators that impact the ability of various individuals to participate in physical activity.
This course exposes students to psychological aspects contributing to sport/physical activity participation and psychological outcomes of participation. It explores psychological theories and research and their application to the affective, behavioral, and cognitive outcomes of sport/physical activity participants when considering key environmental factors.
An introduction to modern dance technique, history, and philosophy focusing on the physical principles of movement and their choreographic application. Students will participate in a combination of lectures and studio time.
A professional preparation course in the skills, knowledge, safety, and teaching progressions of basketball and soccer.
A professional preparation course in the skills, knowledge, safety, and teaching progressions of tennis and volleyball.
A professional preparation course for teaching and coaching. Includes basic instruction in coaching education and principles, pedagogy for coaching, conditioning for athletes, and team building.
This course deals with methods and materials of health and physical education in school levels kindergarten through sixth grade. Required of elementary education majors. Does not count toward physical education major.
A study of problems related to body mechanics and the needs of the physically handicapped student.
Students develop a working knowledge of theories, principles, and operating procedures involved in managing programs, staff, and facilities in the health/fitness industry, including management, marketing, operations, legal aspects.
In this course, students are introduced to the policies and problems of organizing and administering sport in public and private settings.
Because sport cuts across all international boundaries, students must understand the global implications of the sport industry. This course introduces students to the organization, governance, business activities, and intercultural issues in international sport.
This course is targeted to students enrolled in Department of Exercise and Sport Science majors as well as other students with interest in medical professions. This course involves a systematic approach to human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on the metabolic, endocrine, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, integumentary and immune systems.
A broad based perspective of women's participation in sport including history of participation, physiological differences, and socio-cultural influences including work, politics, family, economics, and gender roles and identity.
This course is designed to introduce the undergraduate student to the sports medicine profession and to provide the basic knowledge and skills necessary to recognize, evaluate, and treat injuries to the head and face, cervical spine, thoracic region, abdominal/urogenital region, and extremities.
An introduction to research in the fields of physical education, exercise, and sport science with emphasis on understanding and application of research findings.
EXSS 275L is a basic human anatomy laboratory course designed to accompany EXSS 155 or EXSS 175. For students endeavoring to major in the allied health professions.
Instructor may approve equivalents for prerequisite. A lecture course in elementary physiology, covering the various systems of the body.
Recommended preparation, EXSS 155 or EXSS 175. Theory and practice of basic first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the acute care of athletic injuries.
Variable topics course in Exercise and Sports Science. Honors version available.
An intensive study of modern dance technique and philosophy, focusing on the physical principles of movement and their choreographic application. One hour seminar and four and one-half hours laboratory.
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a structured, supervised practical experience in exercise and sport science professional settings. Students will be individually mentored by on-site supervisors who will be responsible for assigning and assessing meaningful work, as well as providing training, feedback, and opportunities for participation in organizational activities. Students will receive guidance for professional development from their lead instructor in the form of in-class activities, assignments, and guest speakers. Restricted to EXSS general majors (not Fitness Professional or Sport Administration) with at least junior-year standing who are within 4 semesters of graduation, and a minimum 2.0 GPA (overall and within major).
This course is designed to introduce students to marketing within the sports industry, including the unique aspects of the sport product and sport consumer markets.
This course is designed to develop practical competencies necessary for effectively managing sport facilities and events while providing students with experiential learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom.
This course provides an understanding of the financial and economic growth of sport, economic theory applied to the sport industry, and the basic principles and methods of sound fiscal control.
This course is designed to help students interested in working in college sports understand what that role has been and might be in the future, with an emphasis on maximizing the educational value of intercollegiate athletic participation and the integration of athletics with academic and student life dimensions on college campuses.
This course provides a foundation in general legal concepts and familiarizes students with the legal areas they are most likely to encounter as managers in the sports and fitness industry.
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to predictive analytics utilizing regression-based modeling approaches. As a CURE course, students will learn the iterative process of model building through trial and error and by working with other students on hands-on problems. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to analyze sport-related data using predictive analytics, whether the dependent variable is continuous or binary in nature. Honors version available.
This course will provide students an introduction to practical entrepreneurial business tools for starting a new business (or for use in an existing organization) in the sport industry.
This course will enhance students' understandings about social and cultural dimensions of sport and exercise contexts. Through directed readings, classroom conversations, assignments/projects, and guest speakers, students in this course will learn how these sociocultural realities 1) are explored through academic research, and 2) impact sport and exercise policy, programs, and innovation, and 3) impact sport and exercise constituents, such as participants, planners, leaders, and advocates. This is an elective course for all junior/senior EXSS majors. EXSS majors, Junior/Senior standing
The role of nutrition in maximizing physical performance, promoting health, and controlling body weight. Includes individual nutritional assessments.
This course is designed to introduce undergraduate students to the basic principles and skills used to rehabilitate sport related injuries with an emphasis on musculoskeletal injuries.
This is an advanced athletic training course, designed to provide the athletic training student with knowledge and skills necessary for treating injuries.
This is an advanced athletic training course, designed to provide the athletic training student with knowledge and skills necessary for rehabilitating injuries.
A presentation of the historical and current perspectives on athletic training, including techniques for organizing and administering athletic training programs.
Advanced course focusing on understanding instrumentation used in assessing internal injury related to sport. Pharmacology, drug testing, psychosocial interventions, and selected emergency procedures pertaining to athletic injury are also presented.
Instructor may approve equivalents for EXSS prerequisites. Students must take laboratory section along with class. The application of physiological principles to sport and physical activity. Both immediate and chronic adaptations to exercise are studied. Two lecture and two laboratory hours a week.
This course introduces neuromuscular control and motor learning through a general understanding of neuroanatomy/neurophysiology, sensory contributions to human movement, initiation and regulation of voluntary movement, and the acquisition of motor skills. Course topics include central and peripheral nervous system functions in the production and regulation of human movement, neural pathways and control mechanisms, and enhancement of motor learning in the rehabilitation and training settings. Honors version available.
This course introduces the principles of biomechanics, including kinematics, kinetics, projectile motion, fluid forces and statics analysis. It includes the application of both kinematics and kinetic variables to joint motion and sport activities. Instructor may approve equivalents for EXSS prerequisite.
This course is designed for undergraduate students to provide course support to their peers. This course provides opportunities for students to prepare, demonstrate, and consult with their peers via in- and out-of-class activities. Students will gain an enhanced understanding of Exercise and Sport Science content with a lens towards explaining to less experienced students, gaining pedagogical knowledge and experience, and engaging in comprehensive, concise, and clear oral and written communication. EXSS Majors only; Successful completion, with a grade of C or higher, of the course you are assisting
This field experience offers implementation of theories and practices of athletic training and sports medicine under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer.
Permission of the instructor. Majors preferred. Laboratory/research study addressing exercise and sport science questions. Requires final written report. Repeatable for six total credits.
Required preparation, any two relevant courses. Permission of the instructor. Individually designed in-depth study in an area of interest within exercise and sport science. Available to both majors and nonmajors under the supervision of selected EXSS faculty members.
This course will expose students to research in sport and exercise psychology using the C.R.E.A.T.E. (Consider, Read, Elucidate the hypotheses, Analyze and interpret the data, and Think of the next Experiment) framework. Students will follow the historical publications of one sport and exercise psychology research group to better understand the research process. Each research paper will be digested/critiqued in phases. Student will also formulate their own novel research questions and present them to the class.
Advanced Undergraduate and Graduate-level Courses
Students will learn to design an individualized fitness plan for a "healthy" adult for common fitness goals by assessing their movement and fitness, exercise leadership, and program design. This class, in part, prepares students for the NASM certified personal training (CPT) certification.
Exercise benefits everybody. This course will teach evidence-based information for developing, modifying and implementing fitness programs for individuals with chronic disease, metabolic, cardiac, pulmonary, and other issues deemed as special populations. The knowledge and skills attained in this course will enhance any basic personal training certification and give a better understanding of working with what could be considered the general public.
This course is designed to provide theoretical and practical knowledge in basic exercise testing and prescription for both healthy and select special populations. This course includes both lectures and a lab. Priority registration is given to EXSS- Fitness Professional students and permission to enroll is obtained by completing the form linked in the registration section in Connect Carolina.
This experiential course covers the concepts and skills used in program planning. Students apply their program planning skills to real-life situations and implement a recreation program for a community agency. Previously offered as RECR 420.
This course will analyze and produce skills essential to the revenue production and sales process commonly found in the sport business. In this class students will develop an understanding and appreciation for the sales and revenue-production process related to a sport franchise and/or organization.
An analysis of the techniques, methods, and motives of group and community leaders. Special attention is focused upon the roles of organizational structure, personnel policies, and in-service training programs. Previously offered as RECR 430.
This course is designed to teach students how to lead and coach a group of individuals toward movement proficiency in common athletic-based exercises.
Students will learn to explain, design, and execute a corrective exercise program to improve movement quality. Students will be introduced to skills such as range of motion, strength, and movement quality assessments. This class, in-part, prepares students for the NASM corrective exercise specialist (CES) certification.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of joint mechanics. It exposes students to motions of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine as well as the extremities, and relates these concepts to movement of the body during specific activities.
This course focuses on the foundational knowledge needed to train athletes, including performance assessment, coaching exercise technique, and program design. This class, in part, prepares students for the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification.
This course is designed for certified athletic trainers (ATC) and gives them advanced rehab and performance skills that can be used during an athlete's return to sport progression. Students will learn to assess movement quality and performance, lead an individual through common strength and conditioning exercises, and write a basic performance plan based on NASM strategies. This class, in-part, prepares students for the NASM performance enhancement specialist (PES) certification.
This field experience offers implementation of theory and the practical application of sport administration in a sport organization worksite, under the direct supervision of a business professional.
This course will introduce the student to the public health importance and epidemiology of injuries and other medical conditions in sport and physical activity. Previously offered as EXSS 373.
Advanced course examining the responses of the endocrine system to exercise and the adaptations that occur with exercise training. Provides the fundamentals necessary for exercise science and allied health science students to understand the integral role that the endocrine system plays in exercise.
This course explores interactions between the nervous and musculoskeletal systems via integration of concepts from neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, anatomy, neuromuscular control, and biomechanics. Topics include muscle mechanics, sensorimotor function, joint stability, movement disorders, neurocognition, and neuroplasticity following injury and disease.
This course is designed to explore the theory and research related to the biopsychosocial approach to treating patients experiencing sport injury and undergoing rehabilitation. Application and synthesis of biopsychosocial theories and biopsychosocial therapy interventions into sport injury research and clinical practice will occur. The focus is on theory and application of various psychological concepts.
A field experience (i.e., internship) in a local fitness & wellness or strength and conditioning setting designed for students to apply their classroom knowledge and skills, in a worksite of their choice, under the direct supervision of certified professionals. This class is only open to EXSS - Fitness Professional students. Permission to enroll is obtained by attending a practicum Permission to enroll is obtained by attending a practicum registration meeting one semester in advance.
Required preparation, a cumulative grade point average meeting the University standard and permission of the department. Directed independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor who teaches in the exercise and sport science curriculum.
Required preparation, a cumulative grade point average meeting the University standard and permission of the department. Preparation of an honors thesis and an oral examination on the thesis.
LFIT–Lifetime Fitness
One lifetime fitness course is a graduation requirement for all students at UNC–Chapel Hill (post-2006 curriculum). Students are encouraged to complete the lifetime fitness requirement during their first year of study. Effective in fall 2011, a student may enroll in only one LFIT course and may count only one, one-credit LFIT course toward graduation at Carolina. These courses combine practice in a sport or physical activity with general instruction in lifelong health.
Undergraduate-level Courses
Assignments to this class are made for students with special needs in physical activities focusing primarily on acute and chronic physical limitations. Activities are assigned commensurate with interests and abilities. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes various forms of aerobics. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. Activities will promote cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. Activity portion of the course includes basketball, volleyball, and indoor soccer. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course promotes cardiovascular fitness through jogging. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. Activity portion for students who can complete 30 minutes of jogging. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. Activity portion of course includes ultimate frisbee, flag football, and soccer. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes badminton, tennis, and racquetball. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes swimming skills for beginners. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course promotes cardiovascular fitness through swimming. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course promotes cardiovascular fitness through walking. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion includes basic techniques of weight training. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion includes basic instruction in both yoga and pilates. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion includes basic instruction in cycle fitness. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes basic instruction in flag football. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion includes basic techniques of self defense. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
An introduction to fitness and wellness that includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion includes basic conditioning and instruction in both downhill skiing and snowboarding, including five days in Boone, NC. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion will provide soccer instruction and game play. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes basic instruction in tennis. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes basic instruction in ultimate frisbee. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes basic instruction in Brazilian jiu jitsu. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is an introduction to fitness and wellness, and includes developing personal fitness programs and instruction in physical activity. The activity portion of the course includes basic instruction in sand volleyball. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
This course is designed to cover the study and practice of special topics directed by an authority in the field. Subject matter will vary per instructor and topic. Students can enroll in only one LFIT course during their career at Carolina.
PHYA–Physical Activity
Undergraduate-level Courses
Assignments to this class are made for students with special needs in physical education focusing primarily on acute and chronic physical limitations. Activities are assigned commensurate with interests and abilities. Students are required to present an exercise prescription from a physician including prescribed activities and limitations.
Provides a cardiovascular fitness program incorporating physiologically safe dance and exercise movements to music. It develops strength, flexibility, and improved cardiorespiratory efficiency.
Challenges students to achieve higher levels of overall fitness in a cardiovascular program that combines stations of muscular strength with endurance while incorporating a wide variety of equipment. Students are expected to be able to participate in a minimum of 20 minutes of aerobic exercise.
The course includes an orientation to the history and rules of the game, terminology, and equipment. Basic skills and techniques include the proper grip, stance, footwork, forehand and backhand clears, long and short serves, net shots, around-the-head shot, and the smash. Presents basic single and double game strategies.
Beginning physical fitness program based on the model used by the United States Army Physical Fitness Academy and designed to improve aerobic and anaerobic strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the history and skill of cycling. The course will focus on maintenance of the bicycle, fitness acquired through the use of cycling, and the skills of climbing, descending, cornering, and balance.
Covers activities that promote cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility. The course content includes fitness evaluation, stretching, weight training, aerobic exercise, jogging, and circuit training. Individual exercise programs are developed.
Introduces students to the history, rules, and terminology of the sport of fencing. It traces the development of ancient and modern weapons; presents warm-up, stretching, and conditioning exercises that are specific to the sport; and covers grip, basic positions, and footwork. Individual and team competitions are conducted in the course.
Stresses swing motion and the basic fundamentals. Techniques of the full swing and the short game are presented. Rules and etiquette are covered. Students who shoot 115 or less for 18 holes are not eligible for this beginner course.
Through proper progression, students are exposed to compulsory routines on several pieces of gymnastic apparatus--including the balance beam, parallel bars, pommel horse, rings, horizontal bar--and strength, flexibility, and gross motor coordination. Emphasis is placed on safe spotting techniques and safety awareness.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to develop cardiovascular fitness through a popular activity. Selection of proper clothing and equipment, the physiological effects of a jogging program, care and prevention of common injuries, and the mechanics of jogging are presented.
This course offers an introduction to the basics of one of many martial art styles. Emphasis is on traditional forms, basic movements, philosophy, discipline, and proper class conduct. Students will learn various stances and forms.
This course will teach the skills needed to help prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. This includes land and water skills, first aid and CPR/AED.
The course introduces the beginner to basic skills, including forehand and backhand drives, grips, footwork, and serves. Safety considerations as well as rules and terminology are covered. Basic strategy is presented involving the return of service, use of ceiling, rear wall, pass, and kill shots.
Required preparation, some swimming skills. This course prepares students for participation in recreational diving: both skin diving and scuba. Lectures cover physiology of diving, first aid, and decompression. It can lead to certification if students attend open water training dives conducted at the semester's end. An additional fee is required.
This course introduces the basics of self-defense techniques and will instruct the student by incorporating a three-dimensional educational approach. The student will develop skill, knowledge and self-confidence as related to self-defense.
This course is conducted in Boone, North Carolina, for five days over the winter break. It includes orientation to proper equipment selection, the use of lifts and tows, and the basic fundamentals, such as parallel turns, edging concepts, and rhythm. An additional fee is required.
Basic soccer skills are presented including dribbling, shooting, passing, heading, trapping, and tackling. Position play and strategies for basic offense and defense are learned as well as rules and terminology. Conditioning is achieved through drills and game play.
Basic shots are learned including forehand and backhand drives, corners, reverse corners, volleys, drop shots, and serves. Rules, terminology, and basic strategies are presented. Appreciation of squash as a game for fitness and fun is developed.
The course consists of swimming skills for students with limited water experience. These skills include water adjustment, floating, kicking, front crawl stroke, rhythmic breathing, and elementary backstroke. Emphasis is on efficient movement through the water. Foundation skills taught enable students to enjoy swimming and other aquatic activities as a lifetime sport. Basic water safety and first aid procedures are included.
This course is designed to promote cardiovascular fitness through swimming. Conditioning and the refinement of stroke techniques will be stressed through stroke practice and workout routines. Topics will include stroke mechanisms of the four competitive strokes, starts, turns, interval, sprint, and long distance training.
Basic skills are learned including forehand and backhand groundstrokes, the volley, and the serve. Rules, terminology, and basic game strategy will be taught. Through play, an increased level of fitness and skill will be gained to promote participation in tennis throughout life.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the sport of triathlons integrating the discipline of running, cycling, and swimming. The course is physically challenging and provides information on transitions and maintenance of equipment, as well as setting up a training program.
Teaches the knowledge, skills, and rules of ultimate frisbee in order to develop a lasting interest in lifetime participation and to increase the student's level of physical fitness
Basic skills are taught including the forearm pass, the overhead pass, setting, spiking, blocking, dinking, and serving. Rules and terminology are included. Basic offensive and defensive strategy is learned.
This course will train students to teach American Red Cross progressive swimming and water safety courses. Course content includes analysis of stroke mechanics, review of water safety skills, and investigation of teaching methodology. Students need to be proficient in front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, breaststroke, and sidestroke.
Basic techniques and knowledge of variable resistance and free weight systems are taught. Fitness evaluation and individual workout programs are included. Development of muscular strength and endurance is stressed. Physiological principles of fitness and their relationships to weight training are also emphasized.
This course will combine instruction in, and practice of, a sport or physical activity that can be sustained in later life, together with instruction in lifelong health.
Students will gain skills necessary to develop a lasting interest in sand volleyball and to increase the student's level of physical fitness. Students will also learn the rules of the sport and how it differs from indoor volleyball.
This course is designed to cover the study and practice of special topics directed by an authority in the field. Subject matter will vary per instructor and topic.
Challenges students to achieve higher levels of cardiovascular, flexibility, and strength fitness through dance and exercise movements to music. Students are expected to be able to participate in a minimum of 20 minutes of aerobic activities.
Builds on and refines the basic fundamentals of the swing motion. Ball flight control is introduced with more in-depth swing analysis. Students who shoot 85 to 115 for 18 holes are eligible for this course.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to learn more difficult gymnastics skills and to incorporate them in a fluid routine. Added emphasis is placed on muscular strength and flexibility. Safe spotting techniques, particularly for more advanced skills, are stressed throughout the course.
Introduces students to the cardiovascular and overall fitness benefits of running. Students will learn how running can be a lifetime activity when approached sensibly and effectively. Students are expected to be able to run three miles in under 30 minutes prior to registering for this course.
Students will review beginning skills. Aspects of competition will be covered, including match preparation, officiating a match, and tournament play. Specific practice will involve shot selection and placement and back wall play.
Basic skills are reviewed and refined. Dead ball situations are studied, especially corner kicks and direct and indirect free kicks. Different systems of play are introduced and evaluated. Positional play is stressed in the development of advanced defensive and offensive tactics.
Techniques for crawl, sidestroke, elementary backstroke, back crawl, and breaststroke are covered. Basic water rescue skills are presented including first aid procedures. Physical fitness is promoted through swimming.
Increased proficiency in four basic skills will be developed. New shots taught include the overhead, the drop, the lob, and spin serve. Strategy for singles and doubles play will be stressed. Emphasis is on increased pace and ball placement.
Students improve execution of basic skills through practice. Stresses safe execution of dives and rolls. Teaches various offensive strategies and defensive alignments. Emphasizes team play.
Emphasizes the development of individualized muscular strength and endurance programs following instruction in the physiological principles and techniques of weight training. Students should have beginning weight training skills, techniques, and knowledge prior to enrolling in this class.
Advanced Undergraduate and Graduate-level Courses
All aspects of leading group fitness activities will be explored and applied, including components of an aerobic exercise class, modifications for individual needs and special populations, health screening, fitness testing.
Nationally recognized scuba certification may substitute for prerequisite. The course will follow the PADI Advanced Open water course curriculum which contains five specialty dives focusing on deep, night, peak performance buoyancy, underwater navigation, and underwater naturalist.
Department of Exercise and Sport Science
209 Fetzer Hall, CB# 8700
(919) 843-9630
Chair
Troy Blackburn