The spring 2014 semester brings a variety of non-credit and continued learning opportunities in aquatics, dance, and health/safety topics for students, UREC members, faculty/staff, and Arkansas Alumni Association members.  Ballet Dance, Triathlon Swim Training, and American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification are just a few of the classes offered through the University Recreation department, housed in the HPER Building.

“UREC’s non-credit classes are a great way to learn a new skill or try something you’ve always wanted to try,” said Katie Helms, assistant director of University Recreation. “These classes are for everybody, not just students. Learning to swim or refining your ballroom dancing skills are beneficial at any age.” 

Dance classes offered through University Recreation include Intermediate-level Ballroom, Salsa, and Swing Dance classes.  These classes seek to continue skills learned during the Introductory-level classes held during the Fall semester.

“I’m really excited about this semester’s class because it combines all of the basic steps of east coast swing and lindy hop,” said Zach Kuntz, UREC swing dance instructor. “This Swing class focuses on how to confidently make these moves smooth and fluid while at the same time creating style.”

For participants who aren’t ready for an Intermediate-level class, or are looking for a more unique style of dance, Ballet Dance and Modern Dance/Movement Improv classes will be offered on Wednesday nights.  Both of these classes are open to all levels. 

Aquatics program offerings include Beginning Swim Lessons for youth ages 5-12, as well as adults aged 13 and up. Beginner swim lessons are designed to introduce participants to aquatic environments and develop basic skills including floating, breathing, and basic locomotion. Triathlon training clinics for both Introductory and Advanced skill levels will be offered on Sunday afternoons during the months of February, March, and April. Each clinic runs four weeks and is designed for the participant who wants to improve their strokes and open water skills, as well as improve triathlon swim performance.

University Recreation is proud to continue its role as an American Red Cross Authorized Provider for CPR/First Aid/AED certification classes and Lifeguard certification classes. These classes can help students fulfill academic or employer requirements, and can also be packaged and brought to specific departments on campus. UREC will also offer a Group Fitness Instructor preparatory course for students or other individuals interested in obtaining certification with various professional fitness credentialing organizations. 

UREC Non-Credit Instructional Programs are open to registration by students, UREC members, UA faculty/staff, and active Arkansas Alumni Association members. For more information about these or any other UREC programs, please contact Katie Helms at 575-4684 or khelms@uark.edu.