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Health and Wellness Studies Courses

Below is a list of courses offered by the Health and Wellness Studies Department at Binghamton. For the current schedule of courses offered by semester, please access the catlaog available on Banner. For more information about any of the courses, feel free to contact the Department or specific instructor as listed on Banner.

HWS 101
LEARN TO SWIM

For the person who cannot swim, whether from fear of the water or from lack of experience and the person who has some swimming ability, but who is unsafe or uncomfortable in deep water. Progression from adjustment to water and floating to elementary strokes, other basic swimming and personal safety skills and elementary forms of rescue. Additional wellness concepts will be incorporated in the course as well.
2 cr.

HWS 102
SWIMMING - BEGINNING

Introduction to the five basic swimming strokes: front and back crawls, sidestroke, elementary backstroke and breaststroke, with work on stroke endurance as proficiency increases. Water familiarity and safety is enhanced through such skills as treading water, survival float and stroke, bobbing, elementary forms of rescue and simple water games. Diving skills progress from the pool edge to the one-meter board as skills permit. Swimming as a method of maintaining lifetime fitness and wellness will also be introduced.
2 cr.

HWS 103
SWIMMING - INTERMEDIATE
For the person who is comfortable in deep water, but who wishes to perfect basic strokes and increase swimming endurance. Increases proficiency in the six basic strokes front and back crawls, sidestroke, elementary backstroke, butterfly and breaststroke. Second half of course includes distanced swimming and fitness through swimming. Continued emphasis on personal safety and elementary rescue skills. Introduction to other aquatic forms, e.g. snorkeling, surface dives and underwater swimming, board diving, sculling and water sports. Swimming as a method of maintaining lifetime fitness and wellness will also be introduced.
2 cr.

HWS 104
SWIM FOR FITNESS

Enlightens students about the value of swimming as a lifetime fitness activity. Emphasis is on swimming laps and learning to get the maximum benefit from efforts. Specific areas covered are physiological principles; proper warm-ups; how to circle swim; turning; monitoring a workout via heart rate and/or the pace clock. Some work on stroke technique, as needed. Proficiency in crawl stroke is required. Substantial portion of class time is spent swimming laps for endurance.
2 cr.

HWS 105
AQUA TRIM FITNESS

Water Aerobics and Fitness at its finest. A great water workout for students who want to rehabilitate an injury or learn how water resistance can improve muscle tone. This exercise class can be adapted to fit individual needs based on ability levels. Shallow and deep water exercises will be incorporated in addition to how functional fitness and psychological well-being can be improved.
2cr.

HWS 111
LIFESKILLS
Instruction and practice in developmental skills such as studying, note taking and test taking, as well as discussion of personal wellness topics such as nutrition, strength training and stress management. Instruction in speech communication and presentation, as well as evaluating other's communication. Focuses on personal development, career planning and resources, drug and alcohol education and academic development. Prerequisites: freshman status, consent of instructor.
4 cr.

HWS 112
LOVE THYSELF: WOMEN LEARNING TO ACCEPT, RESPECT AND LOVE THEMSELVES
Helps female students set forth on the path to self-discovery while finding what makes them the women they are. Breaks down myths and misconceptions fostered by a culture that places extreme emphasis on women bodies, causing women to internalize messages about what society depicts as perfect. Examines how society has placed women in a dangerous social, emotional and spiritual position. Devises strategies to help women positively change the way they feel about themselves.
2 cr.

HWS 113
SHOTOKAN KARATE

The most widespread form of Japanese karate, Shotokan karate is derived from two styles of Okinawan karate, Shorin and Shurei. As taught by the Japan Karate Association World Federation, it maintains the standards and accreditation of the member organizations. This style is a complete martial art, encompassing a large variety of punching, kicking, throwing, pressure point and joint lock techniques. The level is Beginner and will also accommodate those having previous Shotokan karate or related experience, offering more advanced techniques and Kata. All interested Students will have the opportunity to test for rank during belt grading sessions conducted outside of the normal class time. 2 cr.

HWS 114
KARATE
Offers students a chance to enhance their self-development through the study and practice of Washin-Ryu Karate. In addition to a practical system of self-defense, karate provides mental and physical benefits, such as increased flexibility, coordination and stamina, better concentration, increased self-confidence and self-discipline. Individual progress, self-improvement and safety are stressed. With this emphasis, students of widely different abilities may benefit from the instruction, especially those who feel awkward or ill at ease in more competitive forms of physical activity. Students should wear loose clothing in which they may be active and comfortable.
2 cr.

HWS 132
ACR

ACR (adaptive, corrective and rehabilitative) physical education provides continuity for students in physical education class who, for medical reasons only, cannot continue participation in that class. Temporary or long-term injury or disability cases are assigned to this program by college physicians; adaptive, corrective or rehabilitative programs provided for each individual case. Recuperative exercise therapy is main area for concentration in ACR physical education.
2 cr.

HWS 158
RAPE AGGRESSION DEFENSE FOR WOMEN

Rape Aggression Defense for Women is a comprehensive program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques. Begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, while progressing to hands-on defensive concepts and techniques. Culminates with a simulation exercise.
2 cr.

HWS 159
WOMEN'S SELF-DEFENSE

While emphasizing non-violence, this class teaches techniques in physical and mental self-defense based on traditional karate. Development of confidence, discipline, concentration, self-respect and respect for others. Executing proper blocking, dodging, falling, punching, kicking and submission techniques. Executing escapes and counter-attacks in response to various attacks and holds. Increasing physical strength and flexibility through systematic warm-up and cool-down exercises.
2 cr.

HWS 162
TAI CHI

Tai Chi is a Chinese classical healing and therapy exercise. Its movements are slow and graceful. It is ideal for young and old because of its slow, smooth, easy movements and its health benefits.
2 cr.

HWS 202
SCUBA
The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) open-water diver course covers proper use of mask, fins, snorkel and underwater breathing apparatus in the West Gym swimming pool. Extra fee covers equipment use and instructional materials. Open-water dives may be arranged at additional cost outside of class if certification is desired. Swimming proficiency is a prerequisite. Instruction in various environmental wellness issues is also discussed. Students must provide a medical release form indicating good health, particularly freedom from cardio-respiratory problems. They are expected to bring a swimsuit to class on the first night.
2 cr.

HWS 205
SCUBA - ADVANCED

Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) Standard Advanced Open Water Class certification. Independent study, classroom lecture, dive skills development in the pool and a weekend of five dives at an appropriate dive site. Instruction explores scuba diving in seven unique environments: deep diving, underwater navigation, multi-level diving, drift diving, boat diving, wreck diving and peak performance buoyancy. Prerequisites: Open Water Scuba certification from a recognized scuba training agency. Extra fees.
2 cr.

HWS 210
MEN'S PERSONAL WELLNESS

Introduction to men's wellness by exploring ideas and issues important from a males perspective. Some of the life skills that will be addressed are physiological optimizing health of the body through exercise and nutrition; mental practicing skills in stress management, decision making and life planning; psychosocial understanding self and relationship skills; and spiritual using core beliefs, purpose in life and transcendent connections to inspire high quality living. Medical concerns as they pertain to men will be covered as well.
2 cr.

HWS 211
PHYSICAL FITNESS AND WELLNESS

Combines classroom lectures and discussion on fitness and wellness with participation in physical activities designed to develop muscular and cardiovascular fitness.
2cr.

HWS 212
WELLNESS THROUGH AEROBIC EXERCISE

Introduces a wellness lifestyle through the use of aerobic and group exercise. Cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition are the focus of the activity. Nutrition, stress management and holistic health are the focus of the wellness component.
2 cr.

HWS 213
WELLNESS THROUGH YOGA

Instruction and practice of Hatha Yoga and meditation constitute a large part of the course. Remainder is classroom lecture and discussion delving into both ancient teachings and the science behind yoga's holistic approach to well-being. Readings, papers and reports are required.
2 cr.

HWS 215
WELLNESS THROUGH WEIGHT TRAINING

Explores and uses various forms of training with resistance equipment, including free weights, machine weights and body resistance, to improve muscular strength, endurance and flexibility. Basic anatomy and physiology of exercise are covered. Wellness issues are also discussed, including nutrition, fitness training principles, stress management and body composition. The activity portion is spent on developing muscular strength and endurance and using a self-designed weight training program. 2 cr.

HWS 216
WOMEN'S WELLNESS

Introduction to women's health and wellness. Historical and contemporary perspectives are used to explore issues such as menstruation, menopause, childbirth, eating disorders and body image. Holistic health options are discussed as alternatives to allopathic treatments for many common health conditions. Enhances a woman's health and wellness by focusing on proactive health and increasing one's knowledge of a woman's body.
4 cr.

HWS 217
RUNNING AND HEALTH AWARENESS

Proper body mechanics, equipment, care and prevention of injuries related to running, cardio-respiratory endurance, nutrition, heart disease and various aspects of health are presented. Several systems of training are addressed (long slow distance, interval training, speed play, pace training, hill training and rest).
2 cr.

HWS 218
PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL AWARENESS

Develops awareness and appreciation of total human organism; teaches psychological aspects of mind vs. matter, mind vs. mind, imagination vs. reality (psychosomatic disorders, etc.), powers of suggestion, meditation, relaxation, etc.; physiological aspects of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism, oxygen debt, breathing, posture, body mechanics, muscular strength and endurance, nutrition and weight control, joint mobility, cardiovascular system and stress management.
4 cr.

HWS 219
WELLNESS THROUGH POWER YOGA

Also known as Ashtanga Yoga, a high-energy flow series of classical yoga poses melded together in an uninterrupted flow of movement. The particular series taught is called yoga therapy, a vigorous practice designed to align the body and spine while building strength and flexibility. Classes include study/discussion segments on diet and health through the approach of Ayurveda, yoga philosophy and ethics, breathing and beginning meditation. Yoga mat required. 2 cr.

HWS 220
INTRODUCTION TO TRIATHLON TRAINING

This is a class for students interested in competing in their first sprint triathlon. Lecture topics will include nutrition, time management, strength training, and mental preparation. There will be one day per week of physical training for each discipline (swimming, cycling and running). Prerequisite: Students must be able to complete a full lap in a 25-yard pool without stopping.
4 cr.

HWS 231
PILATES AND YOGA, or P.L.A.Y.
A complete head-to-toe, no impact workout employing Pilates and yoga movements for muscular development of the core abdominals and erector spinae as well as the upper body, hips and legs. Pilates, founded by Joseph Pilates, is well-known in the dance/sports therapy world, is a unique system of strengthening and stretching to improve muscle tone, flexibility, posture and balance by integrating the mind and body through the breath cycle. Yoga postures (asanas) and movements (vinyasa) are blended as a complement to PilatesÆ control of movement, concentration, alignment and flow. Health and wellness information includes nutrition and weight management, exercise execution for safety and risk management, and stress management. All levels of conditioning are welcome to explore the fun of PLAY. 2 cr.

HWS 234
INTERMEDIATE TAEKWONDO
Secondary instruction in the martial art of Taekwondo with a wellness component. Students perform at a higher and more demanding level, including cardio-vascular endurance, flexibility and muscular strength. Nutrition concepts are integrated and encouraged as part of a healthy lifestyle through Taekwondo. Prerequisites: HPEY 110 or equivalent/higher ranking.
2 cr.

HWS 250
LIFEGUARD TRAINING
Provides the necessary minimum skills to become certified as a lifeguard by the American Red Cross. Introduction to lifeguarding procedures, supervision, rescue techniques, swimming skills, facilities and spinal injury management. Provides practice of water skills, rescue techniques, swimming speed and conditioning. For lifeguard certification by American Red Cross, student must meet skill and time requirements and pass a written test. Note: Adult CPR and Standard First Aid are additional requirements for certification by the American Red Cross, but are not offered in the course. Prerequisites: Ability to swim 500 yards continuously, using these strokes in the following order: 200 yards of front crawl using rhythmic breathing and a stabilizing, propellant kick (rhythmic breathing may be performed by breathing to either side or to the front); 100 yards of breaststroke; 200 yards of front crawl or breaststroke using rhythmic breathing (may be a mixture of front crawl and breaststroke); ability to swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive to a depth of seven to 10 feet, retrieve a 10-lb. object, return to the surface and swim 20 yards back to the starting point with the object.
3 cr.

HWS 256
EMERGENCY HEALTH CARE

Two components: Workplace Training and CPR for the Professional Rescuer. Workplace Training is designed as a first-aid training program that gives individuals in the workplace the knowledge and practical skills necessary to prevent, recognize, respond to and provide basic care for injuries and sudden illnesses until more advanced medical personnel arrive on the scene. CPR for the Professional Rescuer is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary for an emergency situation to sustain life, reduce pain and minimize the consequences of respiratory and cardiac emergencies for infants, children and adult victims until more advanced medical help arrives. Successful completion of the two components of the course results in Red Cross Certification in Standard First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer.
2 cr.

HWS 300
INTEGRATED BALANCE FOR SPORTS PERFORMANCE

This course in body smarts covers the principles of core training for functional movement, flexible strength and balance with coordination components, in two arenas of sports science and experiential based activity. The sports science will include: 1) anatomy and kinesiology of movement; 2) American College of Sports Medicine guidelines; 3) principles of integrated balance training; 4) functional training methods; and 5) safety and risk awareness. The experiential based activity have four main units: 1) mat work of Pilates and Yoga for flexible strength; 2) stability ball work for the continuation of strength and flexibility gains with the element of instability; 3) integrated balance challenge and reciprocal muscle innervation which allows for smooth coordinated movement quality via use of the BOSU (a balance trainer meaning ôboth sides upö); and 4) anatomy comparison and biomechanical differences. All units will focus on core stabilization, strength, balance and coordination with safe and effective technique for all exercises/moves to prevent injury. The breath cycle, visual tracking, proprioception, reflexes, and vestibular system during exercise execution will be explored. While modifications in the exercise continuum will be explored from beginner through advanced, this class is designed for the skilled fitness participant, athlete, student athletic trainer, the future physical therapist, personal trainer, or group exercise instructor. Permission of the instructor is required. 4 cr.

HWS 311
WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR

Class time is divided among lecture, water work and practice teaching. All Red Cross skills through Level VII and Emergency Water Safety are included. Students are evaluated on personal skills, knowledge and teaching ability through periodic quizzes, written assignments, practical examinations and a final written examination. Instructor Candidate Training is taught concurrently with the WSI course. In addition to regular class hours, students are expected to observe and practice-teach in University classes and/or the Saturday-morning Children's Swim Program. A list of required Red Cross textbooks is provided at the first class meeting. Prerequisites: students must be at least 17 years of age, have a current Red Cross Emergency Water Safety or Lifeguard Training Certificate and proficiency in six basic strokes equal to Level VI of the American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program and swimmer-level skills.
3 cr.

HWS 325
CARE AND PREVENTION OF ATHLETIC INJURIES

Introduces the student to basic concepts in athletic training. Emphasizes anatomical basis and mechanisms of common athletic injuries. Basics of injury prevention, recognition and initial care are covered. Laboratory time for practice of common taping and wrapping techniques is included so students may develop these practical skill competencies. Laboratory fee of $15. 4 cr.

HWS 330
HUMAN SEXUALITY

Explores various aspects and topics related to sexuality; including sexual attitudes, gender roles, sexual orientations, communication and relationships. Discusses male and female anatomy and physiology and how this relates to contraception and STDs.
4 cr.

HWS 331
CONTEMPORARY HEALTH ISSUES

Explores health issues pertinent to a healthier lifestyle now and in the future. Explore the topics of nutrition, exercise, stress management, cancer, immunizations and sexuality issues, male/female anatomy, and contraception and STDs.
4 cr.

HWS 332
NUTRITION

Introduction to nutrition that focuses on planning a healthy diet by including balance, variety and moderation. In addition to essential nutrients, focuses on reading labels, making food selections to reduce the risk of disease, making healthful selections when dining out, weight management, avoiding harmful eating patterns and recognizing eating disorders.
4 cr.

HWS 333
HEALTH, HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND SOCIETY

Explores the ramifications of lifestyle behaviors and their interrelationship with society. Examines educational levels and the scientific data that relates to the past, present and future health conditions. Allows each student to explore the nature and function of their own personal reality relating to lifestyle behavior. Students will study health/wellness strategies, the various dimensions of health: (physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual), the nature and consequences of health behavior and practices, moral and controversial concerns, corporate, religious and governmental influences, and what science and cultural observations have taught us relating to illness, freedom from illness and longevity. 4 cr.

HWS 336
THE SCIENCE AND APPLICATION OF EXERCISE

This is an introductory course in the science and application of exercise. This course will be useful for students entering the fields of exercise science, physical education, nursing, physical therapy, nutrition, athletic training, medicine or other branches of health and science disciplines. The student will study how exercise alters the function and structure of the human body. This course allows the student the opportunity to learn and investigate the amazing changes that occur in the human body when exercise principles are applied. 4 cr.

HWS 391
PRACTICUM IN COLLEGE TEACHING

Students serve as teaching assistants for a course offered through the Department of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. Not applicable toward General Education requirements. Prerequisites: consent of instructor.
var. cr.

HWS 392
PRACTICUM IN SPORTS MEDICINE

Serve as student trainer for athletic teams.
var. cr.

HWS 393
PRACTICUM IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

Serve as student manager for athletic team. Not applicable toward General Education requirements. Prerequisites: consent of instructor.
2 cr.

HWS 395
INTERNSHIP

For students in a working/learning situation for the Department of Health, Physical Education and Athletics or off-campus sports organization. Not applicable toward General Education requirements.
var. cr.

HWS 397
INDEPENDENT STUDY

For students who wish to study some topic dealing with an aspect of wellness or sport, in cooperation with a department faculty member.

 

Lisa Hrehor
Health and Wellness Studies Department Chair
lhrehor@binghamton.edu

Binghamton University State University of New York
PO BOX 6000 Binghamton, NY 13902-6000
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Last Updated: 8/26/09