Recreation and Fitness
Exercise and fitness are important for the physical and psychological well-being of students and are an important outlet for many on campus. OPRA offers an assortment of recreational and fitness classes to meet various lifestyles and goals, for beginners and more advanced participants.
OPRA Recreation and Fitness Courses
Introduction to Kickboxing
Students of all fitness levels will experience aerobic, plyometric training in an introduction of strikes and kicks. Kickboxing is designed to get your heart rate up with an emphasis on movement, stress relief, technique, and proper transference of energy without any competitive nature.
Beginning Yoga
Learn the basics of yoga practice, including postures, breathing techniques, philosophy, and meditation. This class is for students new to yoga or looking for a slower-paced, instruction-oriented class.
Intermediate Yoga
Deepen your practice with this alignment-based class for students who have prior yoga experience. We will explore a wider range of postures, as well as breathing techniques and meditation.
Advanced Yoga
Take your practice to the next level in a supportive and positive atmosphere. This class is for dedicated practitioners with yoga experience and a high level of self-awareness.
R.A.D. Basic Self Defense for Women (BSD)
The Rape Aggression Defense System (R.A.D.) is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women. The course begins with risk awareness, prevention, reduction and avoidance, progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Women will learn effective options for taking an active role in their own self-defense and psychological well-being. All physical abilities are welcome.
R.A.D. Basic Self Defense for Men (RFM)
Resisting Aggression with Defense (R.A.D.) addresses violence as a sexist phenomena. Social constructs of masculinity promote the notion that all men know how "to fight" and that they are never the victims of violence, but violence can affect and victimize all genders. This program is designed to empower men with verbal skills to disengage from volatile situations and to equip them with practical physical techniques for protection and self-defense.
Beginning Swimming
This class is for those who want to learn to swim, with the goal of helping adults to better understand and adapt to the water environment. Students will learn floats, slides, propulsive movements, breath control, and personal safety techniques. Elementary backstroke, breast stroke, and freestyle will be covered.
Basic Weight Training
This course gives students background knowledge and first-hand experience in stretching, weight lifting and aerobic conditioning. Students learn the basics of flexibility training and are assisted in designing an individualized weight training program. People who have never been involved in a fitness program are especially welcome.
Strength and Conditioning
This class will utilize various techniques to improve one's strength and conditioning without the use of weights. All experience levels welcome.
Fundamentals of Basketball
If you like basketball but have little experience, then this is the class for you. Students work on the basic skills of basketball and will focus on the rules of the game and playing.
Fundamentals of Tennis
Basic tennis techniques are covered, with a focus on developing smooth, confident strokes. Students will also spend time learning the rules of the game, scoring, and playing. This is truly a sport you can play your whole life!
More information about classes is available on TheHub and CEL-1 credit is available.