What the HPER has to offer

Fall scheduling is just around the corner. (In fact, for some, it’s already happened.)

The academic advisers have days jam-packed with appointments from students who are making sure they’ll have the credits they need to graduate and don’t have any idea what to take.

It’s a stressful time, especially for the soon-to-be seniors who are facing their last fall on campus and don’t want to miss out on any good classes they won’t have the chance to take again.

Luckily, with students being able to take up to 19 credits, there’s room for a little fun with all the requirements.

For students whose idea of fun isn’t loading up on extra history courses, the Physical Activity Instruction Program is a great way to blow off a little steam and learn something fun.

These usually one-credit courses are offered through the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation and are usually only a couple of hours per week.

HPER has too many dance and hand-to-hand classes to list, but for those looking for something a little less exerting, why not try a bowling class? Ever wanted to take tai-chi or yoga? Well, now’s your chance.

You do have to show up, participate and take the quizzes (these classes are for credit, after all).

But it’s generally in a relaxing environment where the instructor’s main goal is to see you improve at whatever you’re doing.

Taking a couple hours a week to force yourself to do something fun is a great way to relieve stress, whether you’re a freshman just learning about college life or a senior concentrating on finding a job.

And since most classes are only one credit, they’re perfect for students who are taking five or six classes already and don’t want to go over the allotted full-time student hours. Some of the classes do require a small extra fee, but most are free with student tuition.

It’s a far better deal than whatever the yoga studios in town are going to offer. My choice for a PAIP class was billiards, which I took with a friend. It was two 50-minute sessions a week in the Indiana Memorial Union with a fun undergrad instructor.

We learned different games that are classified as “billiards,” as well as how to get the ball into the pocket without scratching on the eight or taking out someone’s eye.

It was a great way to blow off steam before my law class and spend some quality time with a friend doing a fun activity.

HPER offers everything from sports to dance to more sedentary activities, but there’s something for everyone on the list (which can be found at www.indiana.edu/~kines/academics/elective.shtml).

Before you register, why not take the time to check out some of the offerings? You never know if you might find something interesting or unexpected that catches your eye.

Many of the classes are offered multiple times a week, so you’re sure to find something that fits in neatly with your schedule.

I highly encourage everyone to make the most of all the fun, unique things IU has to offer, and the PAIP classes are an excellent way to start.

­— hanns@indiana.edu