Kinesiology | Catalog 2024-25

253.535.7351	www.plu.edu/kinesiology/	kins@plu.edu
Mallory Mann, Ph.D., Chair

The primary mission of the Department of Kinesiology is to provide quality academic professional preparation for undergraduate students in areas related to the study of human movement, especially as it supports the pursuit of lifelong physical activity and well being (i.e., health & fitness education, recreation, exercise science, pre-physical therapy, pre-athletic training and health & fitness management). We strive to prepare future leaders who will positively impact the health behaviors of individuals and of society through the education and promotion of life-sustaining and life-enhancing pursuits.

The successful completion of our majors demands a strong integration of the liberal arts and sciences with thorough professional preparation in light of respective state and national standards, accrediting bodies and certification programs. Internship experiences are an integral element of all majors in the department and allow for students to further develop and apply their education and training in real world, professional settings. In addition, we provide a diverse array of physical activity instruction for students as part of the General Education Program Element (GenEd) Requirements of the University.

The goals of these classes are to: (a) develop in each student a fundamental respect for the role of physical activity in living, including the assessment of physical condition and the development of personally designed, safe, effective and functional fitness programs with attention to lifetime activities, and (b) to expose students to a diversity of physical activities and experiences in a manner which enhances understanding of their educational, social, spiritual, ethical and moral relevance. Our programs provide opportunities for all participants to develop and apply a knowledge base regarding physical activity and psychomotor and behavioral skills, which encourages the development of lifelong health and wellness.

The department offers two degree programs: the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Kinesiology (B.A.K.) with two different pre-professional concentrations: health and fitness education (with teacher certification) and health and fitness promotion, and the Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology (B.S.K.) which offers two different pre-professional concentrations: exercise science and pre-physical therapy. Students completing these degrees often go on for further graduate study in physical therapy, sport psychology, athletic training, exercise science, recreation, public health etc., or enter into professions such as teaching, personal training, promotions and management, youth programming, coaching and other areas and do so in diverse settings such as schools, private health clubs, nonprofit agencies, corporations, professional sport teams, youth clubs, hospitals, parks and recreation departments and health departments, among others.

In addition, the department supports two distinct minors. The Exercise and Sport Psychology minor is available to both Kinesiology majors and non-majors. The Kinesiology (general studies) minor is open to non-majors only.

Residency Requirements

At least 32 credits of all majors must be taken in residency at PLU, and at least 16 of those must be taken from within the Department of Kinesiology.
At least eight semester hours for all minors must be taken in residency at PLU and within the Department of Kinesiology.
At least eight semester hours applied toward a kinesiology minor must be earned independently from the kinesiology major requirements.

Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology Degree (B.A.K.)

Major in Kinesiology

Health and Fitness Education Concentration
56 semester hours

Students are required to complete BIOL 205 and 206 as prerequisites to KINS 380, 490, and 495

- - Kinesiology Core
    - KINS 201: Introduction to Kinesiology I (4)
    - KINS 202: Introduction to Kinesiology II (4)
    - KINS 495: Internship (4)
  - KINS 279: Teaching Physical Activity (2)
  - KINS 301: Fitness and Recreation, Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 302: Sport Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 320: Nutrition, Health and Performance (4)
  - KINS 322: Physical Education in the Elementary School (2)
  - KINS 326: Adaptive Physical Activity (4)
  - KINS 360: Professional Practicum (4)
  - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
  - KINS 380: Exercise Physiology (4)
  - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
  - KINS 395: Health Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 478: Motor Learning and Human Performance (4)
  - KINS 486: Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology (4)

Health and Fitness Education Concentration (with K-12 Certification)
84 semester hours

Students are required to complete BIOL 205 and 206 as prerequisites to KINS 380, 490, and 495

- - Kinesiology Core
    - KINS 201: Introduction to Kinesiology I (4)
    - KINS 202: Introduction to Kinesiology II (4)
    - EDUC 468: Student Teaching – Secondary (10)
  - KINS 279: Teaching Physical Activity (2)
  - KINS 301: Fitness and Recreation Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 302: Sport Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 320: Nutrition, Health and Performance (4)
  - KINS 322: Physical Education in the Elementary School (2)
  - KINS 326: Adaptive Physical Activity (4)
  - KINS 360: Professional Practicum (4)
  - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
  - KINS 380: Exercise Physiology (4)
  - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
  - KINS 395: Health Programming and Delivery (4)
  - KINS 478: Motor Learning and Human Performance (4)
  - KINS 486: Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology (4)
  - KINS 490: Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction (4)
  - EDUC 320: Issues in Child Abuse and Neglect (1)
  - EDUC 391: Foundations of Learning (3)
  - EDUC 450: Inquiry into Learning and Teaching: Reflective Practice Seminar (2)
  - PSYC 101: Introduction to Psychology (4)
  - FYEP 101: Writing Seminar (4)
  - Valid First Aid Card

Health and Fitness Promotion Concentration
52 semester hours

Students are required to complete BIOL 205 and 206 as prerequisites to KINS 380, 490, and 495

- - Kinesiology Core
    - KINS 201: Introduction to Kinesiology I (4)
    - KINS 202: Introduction to Kinesiology II (4)
    - KINS 495: Internship (4)
  - 8 semester hours in Health and Well-being Courses:
    - KINS 315: Body Image (4)
    - KINS 320: Nutrition, Health, and Performance (4)
    - KINS 324: Physical Activity and Lifespan (4)
    - KINS 384: Foundations of Health and Fitness Promotion (4)
    - KINS 387: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
    - KINS 395: Health Programming and Delivery (4)
  - 8 semester hours in Leadership and Application courses:
    - KINS 279: Teaching Physical Activity (2)
    - KINS 301: Fitness and Recreation Program and Delivery (4)
    - KINS 302: Sport Programming and Delivery (4)
    - KINS 314: Team Building for High Performance Teams (4)
    - KINS 326: Adaptive Physical Activity (4)
    - KINS 334: Applied Training and Conditioning (4)
    - KINS 388: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
    - KINS 411: Coaching Effectiveness (4)
    - Students may take up to two additional FTWL courses (2)
  - 8 semester hours in Biophysical courses:
    - KINS 380: Exercise Physiology (4)
    - KINS 383: Exercise Testing and Prescription (4)
    - KINS 478: Motor Learning and Human Performance (4)
    - KINS 483: Clinical Management for Special Populations (4)
    - KINS 486: Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology (4)
    - KINS 487: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
  - 8 semester hours in Psychosocial courses:
    - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
    - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
    - KINS 390: Applied Exercise and Sports Psychology (4)
    - KINS 488: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
  - Elective: 8 semester hours in KINS 300-400 level courses

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology Degree (B.S.K.)

Major in Kinesiology
56 or 78 semester hours

- - Kinesiology Core
    - KINS 201: Introduction to Kinesiology I (4)
    - KINS 202: Introduction to Kinesiology II (4)
    - KINS 495: Internship (4)
  - B.S.K. Core
    - BIOL 205: Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4)
    - BIOL 206: Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4)
    - STAT 231: Introductory Statistics (4)
      OR STAT 232: Introductory Statistics for Psychology Majors (4)
    - KINS 380: Exercise Physiology (4)
    - KINS 478: Motor Learning and Human Performance (4)
  - AND select one concentration in either Exercise Science or Pre-Physical Therapy
  - Exercise Science Concentration
    - Two courses from:
      - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
      - KINS 383: Exercise Testing and Prescription (4)
      - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
      - KINS 390: Applied Exercise and Sports Psychology (4)
      - KINS 483: Clinical Management for Special Populations (4)
      - KINS 486: Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology (4)
      - KINS 487: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
      - KINS 488: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
    - Elective: 8 semester hours in KINS 300-400 level courses
  - Pre-Physical Therapy Concentration
    - BIOL 225: Molecules, Cells, and Organisms (4)
    - BIOL 226: Genes, Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology (4)
    - CHEM 115: General Chemistry I (4)
    - CHEM 116: General Chemistry II (4)
    - PHYS 125: College Physics I (4) and PHYS 135: College Physics Lab I (1)
    - PHYS 126: College Physics II (4) and PHYS 136 College Physics Lab II (1)
    - PSYC 101: Introduction to Psychology (4)
    - PSYC 320: Development Across the Lifespan (4)
      OR PSYC 315: Clinical Psychology I: Mental Health and Psychological Disorders (4)
    - One course from:
      - KINS 383: Exercise Testing and Prescription (4)
      - KINS 483: Clinical Management for Special Populations (4)
      - KINS 486: Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology (4)
      - KINS 487: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
    - One course from:
      - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
      - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
      - KINS 390: Applied Exercise and Sports Psychology (4)
      - KINS 488: Special Topics in Kinesiology (4)
    - Elective: 4 semester hours from KINS 300-400 level courses

Minors

Exercise and Sport Psychology
20 semester hours

- - KINS 366: Health Psychology (4)
  - KINS 386: Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity (4)
  - KINS 390: Applied Exercise and Sport Psychology (4)
  - 4 semester hours from:
    - KINS 314: Team Building for High Performance Teams (4)
    - KINS 315: Body Image (4)
    - KINS 324: Physical Activity and Lifespan (4)
    - KINS 411: Coaching Effectiveness (4)
    - BIOL 444: Neurobiology (4)
  - 4 semester hours from:
    - PSYC 310: Personality Theories (4)
    - PSYC 320: Development Across the Lifespan (4)
    - PSYC 330: Social Psychology (4)

Kinesiology (General Studies)
16 semester hours of FTWL/KINS coursework

A maximum of six FTWL activity course hours (FT) may count toward the kinesiology minor and at least four semester hours in the minor must be earned in KINS courses at the 300-400 level. KINS 360, 361, 490, 495, and 499 may not be taken toward the general studies minor. Students with majors in the Department of Kinesiology are not eligible to earn the kinesiology general studies minor.

Kinesiology (KINS) - Undergraduate Courses

KINS 201 : Introduction to Kinesiology I

An introduction to the historical, biological, sociological, psychological, and mechanical concepts underlying human movement and the exploration of kinesiology as a field of study. Ethical decision-making, liability, and risk management topics, specific to the field of Kinesiology, will be examined. Opportunities to develop foundational skills in communication and leadership will be provided. Should be the initial professional course taken in the Department of Kinesiology. (4)

KINS 202 : Introduction to Kinesiology II

An introductory course on diversity, equity, access, and inclusion issues in the field of Kinesiology. Topics will include: historical inequities and barriers to access in physical activity settings, the meaning and experiences of diversity within the field of Kinesiology, media and source literacy. Designed to promote diverse, inclusive, evidence-based perspectives related to core issues in the field of Kinesiology and to develop important, foundational inclusive leadership skills. (4)

KINS 279 : Teaching Physical Activity

Generic teaching and management strategies, design of instructional materials and techniques for implementing them, and strategies for working with diverse learners in physical activity settings. This course is a prerequisite for all teaching methods courses. (2)

KINS 287 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

KINS 288 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 289 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 291 : Directed Study

To provide individual undergraduate students with introductory study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as DS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)

KINS 301 : Fitness and Recreation Programming and Delivery

Focused on the planning, organization, delivery and evaluation of a variety of fitness and recreation activities in school and community settings. Topics and skills addressed include aerobic dance, step aerobics, drumming and creative rhythms, circuit training, core training, and selected recreational activities. Course content aligns to ACSM Group Exercise Instructor certification standards. (4)

KINS 302 : Sport Programming & Delivery

Addresses sport skill development, instructional skill development, and programming considerations in a variety of individual, dual, and team sport activities. Topics and skills addressed include net games such as badminton, tennis, pickleball and/or Spikeball invasion games such as lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, flag rugby, and/or tchoukball; and target/fielding activities such as softball, Dotball 360, golf, and/or archery. (4)

KINS 314 : Team Building for High Performance Teams

Activities designed to facilitate the development of team camaraderie and effectiveness. Creative, fun, challenging, and applied team building activities, combined with traditional training tools to help create learning experiences for students to actively enhance team cohesion and group productivity. (4)

KINS 315 : Body Image - GE

Topics include: the connection between women and food, cultural definitions of beauty, eating disorders, nutrition, and biosocial factors affecting weight. (4)

KINS 320 : Nutrition, Health and Performance

An examination of the role of dietary choices in the maintenance of health, the prevention of disease and the optimizing of physical performance. Topics covered include: consumer nutrition skills, basic nutrients and nutritional science, energy balance, sport and performance nutrition including the use of supplements and ergogenic aids, lifespan nutrition, global nutrition and food safety. (4)

KINS 322 : Physical Education in the Elementary School

Organization and administration of a developmental program for grades K-6; sequential and progressive programming; large repertoire of activities. Observation and/or practicum in public schools is required. (2)

KINS 324 : Physical Activity and Lifespan

The emphasis in this course will be on the role that physical activity plays in successful aging. An understanding of the influence of social learning on physical activity behavior through the lifespan and effective strategies for health promotion and activity programming with adult populations will be addressed. (4)

KINS 326 : Adapted Physical Activity

Emphasizes the theory and practice of adaptation in teaching strategies, curriculum, and service delivery for all persons with psychomotor problems, not just those labeled "disabled." (4)

KINS 334 : Applied Training and Conditioning

This course presents physiological and kinesiological applications to physical training and addresses fundamental training principles as they relate to physical fitness in the areas of cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition. Focus is on training for safe and effective physical performance for both genders of all ages and activity interests. (4)

KINS 360 : Professional Practicum

Students work under the supervision of a coach, teacher, recreation supervisor, or health care provider. Prerequisite: departmental approval. Can be repeated up to four semester hours. (1 or 2)

KINS 361 : Coaching Practicum

Students work under the supervision of a coach. Prerequisite: departmental approval. (1 or 2)

KINS 366 : Health Psychology

This course examines how human physiology and psychology interact and influence personal health choices and behavior change. Topics surveyed include behavior change models; nicotine, alcohol and drug use and abuse; stress and stress management; psychological factors in the prevention, development and treatment of chronic disease; death and dying. (4)

KINS 380 : Exercise Physiology

Scientific basis for training and physiological effect of exercise on the human body. Lab is required. Prerequisite: BIOL 205 and 206 or consent of instructor. (4)

KINS 383 : Exercise Testing and Prescription

Provides students involved in the promotion of physical activity with the basic knowledge necessary to safely conduct exercise, health and fitness assessments in a variety of community settings. Topics will include: history of assessment and its role in physical activity promotion; purpose and methods for pre-evaluation and screening; assessment and evaluation techniques; prescriptive program development for health and fitness; and bio-psycho-social implications of assessment and evaluation. (4)

KINS 384 : Foundations of Health and Fitness Promotion

Provides students involved in the promotion of physical activity with the basic knowledge necessary to understand how health and fitness are managed in a variety of community settings. Topics will include: historical and philosophical basis of community-based health and fitness management; organizational assessment and evaluation issues; strategies for behavioral change; strategies for program development, implementation and marketing; specific examples of different community-based health and fitness management programs. (4)

KINS 386 : Social Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity

Questions of how social psychological variables influence motor behavior and how physical activity affects the psychological makeup of an individual will be explored. (4)

KINS 387 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: follow by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

KINS 388 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 389 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 390 : Applied Exercise and Sports Psychology

A practical, individually-oriented course designed to teach athletes, trainers, coaches, and teachers a comprehensive variety of skills and techniques aimed at enhancing sport performance. Psychological topics include: managing anxiety, imagery, goal setting, self-confidence, attention control, injury interventions, self-talk strategies, and team building. (4)

KINS 395 : Health Programming and Delivery

This theory to practice course focuses on understanding and applying developmentally appropriate and scientifically accurate health education in both the K-12 and community settings. Health topics covered may include community and public health, environmental health, nutrition, consumer health, intentional and unintentional injury prevention, substance use, mental and emotional wellbeing, relationships and social health, violence and conflict, and comprehensive sexuality education. The course addresses program planning, implementation, and assessment based on the needs of the learner. (4)

KINS 411 : Coaching Effectiveness

Presents foundational knowledge essential for coaching effectiveness and success in any sport at a youth, club, or school level. This course integrates sport science research with emphasis on practical applications. Organization of this course will be based on topics such as: coaching philosophy and ethics, communication and motivation, principles of teaching sport skills and tactics, evaluation, and team administration, organization, and management including liability prevention. The course is designed to meet or exceed NCACE, NASPE, PCA, and ASEP standards. (4)

KINS 478 : Motor Learning and Human Performance

Provides basic theories, research, and practical implications for motor learning, motor control, and variables affecting skill acquisition. (4)

KINS 483 : Clinical Management for Special Populations

Examination of pathophysiology and the use of exercise to manage chronic diseases and conditions including cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, diabetes, obesity, and other chronic illnesses. Selection and implementation of tests for health related fitness levels in a variety of populations, and the development of exercise prescriptions for patients with known disease. (4)

KINS 486 : Applied Biomechanics and Kinesiology

Opportunity to increase knowledge and understanding about the human body and how the basic laws of mechanics are integrated in efficient motor performance. Prerequisite: BIOL 205. (4)

KINS 487 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 488 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 489 : Special Topics in Kinesiology

KINS 490 : Curriculum, Assessment and Instruction

An integrated and instructionally aligned approach to curriculum design, assessment, development and implementing instructional strategies consistent with Washington Essential Academic Learning Requirements. Intended as the final course prior to a culminating internship, a practicum in the school setting is required in conjunction with this four-semester hour course. Prerequisites: BIOL 205, 206; KINS 279, 301, 302, 322, or consent of instructor. (4)

KINS 491 : Independent Study

To provide individual undergraduate students with advanced study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as IS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. Prerequisite: consent of the dean. (1 to 4)

KINS 495 : Internship - SR

Pre-professional experiences closely related to student's career and academic interests. Prerequisites: declaration of major; senior status; BIOL 205, 206; KINS 201, 202; eight additional hours in the major; and department permission or consent of instructor. (4)

KINS 499 : Capstone: Senior Seminar - SR

To enable senior students in an academic unit to share their work and receive group criticism. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as Capstone and may be followed by a specific title designated by the academic unit. Prerequisites: declaration of major, junior status, ten hours in the major, and department permission. (2 or 4)

Fitness and Wellness (FT) - Undergraduate Courses

FTWL 100 : Personalized Fitness Program - FT

To stimulate student interest in functional personally designed programs of physical activity; assessment of physical condition and skills; recommendation of specific programs for maintaining and improving physical health. Should be taken as a first-year student. (1)

FTWL 150 : Adaptive Physical Activity - FT

An individualized fitness and wellness course designed to meet the needs of students with diagnosed disabilities or long-term injury who, because of their medical condition, are unable to be accommodated through regular activity courses offered in the department. (1)

FTWL 151 : Beginning Golf - FT

Individual and dual activities course in beginning golf. (1)

FTWL 155 : Bowling - FT

Individual and dual activities course in bowling. (1)

FTWL 158 : Jogging and Running for Fitness - FT

Individual and dual activities course in jogging and running for fitness. (1)

FTWL 159 : Walking for Health - FT

Individual and dual activities course in walking for health. (1)

FTWL 162 : Beginning Tennis - FT

Individual and dual activities course in tennis. (1)

FTWL 163 : Beginning Badminton - FT

Individual and dual activities course in badminton. (1)

FTWL 164 : Pickleball - FT

Individual and dual activities course in pickleball. (1)

FTWL 173 : Mountaineering - FT

Individual and dual activities course in mountaineering. (1)

FTWL 177 : Weight Training - FT

Individual and dual activities course in weight training. (1)

FTWL 179 : Core and Stretch - FT

Individual and dual activities course in core and stretch. (1)

FTWL 182 : Low Impact Aerobics - FT

Individual and dual activities course in low impact aerobics. (1)

FTWL 183 : Power Aerobics - FT

Individual and dual activities course in power aerobics. (1)

FTWL 186 : Step Aerobics - FT

Individual and dual activities course in step aerobics. (1)

FTWL 188 : Boot Camp Conditioning - FT

Individual and dual activities course in boot camp conditioning. (1)

FTWL 189 : Kickboxing - FT

Individual and dual activities course in kickboxing. (1)

FTWL 192 : Intermediate Tennis - FT

Individual and dual activities course in intermediate tennis. (1)

FTWL 197 : Advanced Weight Training - FT

Individual and dual activities course in advanced weight training. (1)

FTWL 201 : Swimming for Non-Swimmers - FT

Aquatics course in swimming for non-swimmers. (1)

FTWL 205 : Skin & Scuba Diving - FT

Aquatics course in skin and scuba diving. (1)

FTWL 207 : Basic Sailing - FT

Aquatics course in basic sailing. (1)

FTWL 212 : Conditioning Swimming - FT

Aquatics course in conditioning swimming. (1)

FTWL 223 : Yoga - FT

Rhythms course in yoga. (1)

FTWL 224 : Salsa and Swing Dance - FT

Rhythms course in salsa and swing dance. (1)

FTWL 225 : Ballroom Dance - FT

Rhythms course in ballroom dance. (1)

FTWL 228 : Vinyasa Yoga - FT

Rhythms course in vinyasa yoga. (1)

FTWL 229 : Zumba - FT

Rhythms course in Zumba. (1)

FTWL 234 : Relaxation Techniques - FT

Rhythms course in relaxation techniques. (1)

FTWL 241 : Co-Ed Basketball - FT

Team activities course in co-ed basketball. (1)

FTWL 244 : Co-Ed Volleyball - FT

Team activities course in co-ed volleyball. (1)

FTWL 246 : Disc Sports - FT

Team activities course in disc sports. (1)

FTWL 248 : World Games and Sports - FT

Team activities course in world games and sports. (1)

FTWL 250 : Directed Sports

Team activities course in directed sports. May not be used to complete the General Education Fitness and Wellness requirement. (1)

FTWL 276 : Special Topics in Physical Activity - FT

Selected activities as announced by the department. Provides opportunities for activities not otherwise part of the regular activity course offerings. (1)