The spring 2015 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, beginning swim lessons, and American Red Cross CPR/First Aid/AED certification are just a few of the classes offered through the department of University Recreation. UREC is excited to offer stand-up paddleboard fitness classes in the HPER Natatorium beginning in the spring 2015 semester. Two different class types are offered, Boot Camp and Yoga on Water. Each session consists of one class per week for three weeks.

"Stand-up paddleboard classes challenge your fitness in a whole new way by adding the element of balance and stability to common exercise moves", said Jade Dworkin, graduate assistant for University Recreation. "Plus, it's fun! What a unique way to work out."

Session dates/times, costs, and class descriptions are available on the UREC website. Dance classes offered through University Recreation include Movement Improvisation, Ballet and Modern Dance, and Social Dance.

"I'm really excited about this semester's classes because they explore individual expression through dance", said Kathleen Heil, UREC dance instructor. "The Ballet and Modern dance class helps students to become confident in their movements while at the same time learning choreography and creating style."

Social Dance teaches participants the basics of a variety of popular ballroom styles, including waltz, tango, cha cha, and salsa. Both of these classes are open to all levels. No prior knowledge or dance experience is required. Dance class sessions start Feb. 10. For more information about these classes, please visit the UREC website.

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. Beginning swim lesson sessions are Monday/Wednesday beginning Feb. 16 and ending March 18. For more specific information including lesson times and cost, please visit the UREC website.

University Recreation also offers UREC members a coached stroke development and fitness swim clinic on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This assistance is useful for the swimmer who wants to hone their strokes and learn how to put together fitness-oriented swim workouts. There is no charge, and participation is on a drop-in basis. UREC staff will be available on the south end of the lap lane section to help.

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. These classes can help students fulfill academic or employer requirements, and can also be packaged and brought to specific departments on campus. Please visit the UREC website for further information regarding program dates and cost.

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