Our programs produce well-rounded individuals through regularized activity, sportsmanship, positive social interaction, and ethical conduct. The self-realization of the participants, with a strong emphasis on health and fitness, is integral to our mission. We provide a variety of opportunities appealing to a wide range of student interests and abilities.
Physical activity is an integral part of the development of the well-rounded individual. We strive to create an environment that fosters the development of self-realization and a positive self-image among our students. Four terms of physical education are required for graduation. It is strongly recommended that students complete this requirement by the end of their sophomore year. Through the four-credit requirement at Carleton College, we encourage our students to make regular activity part of their lives.
Underlying all course offerings is the opportunity for vigorous physical activity, with emphasis on the health-related components of physical fitness. Students gain an understanding of the benefits of regular activity and some specific methods of accomplishing personal goals related to health and fitness.
Small classes foster a supportive learning environment and provide an opportunity for skill development for students of varying ability levels. Through vigorous activity people are better able to cope with the day-to-day stresses of a very intense academic environment. Students benefit socially from informal interaction with others. It is our responsibility to work with the special needs, strengths, weaknesses, and potential of each student.
The physical education program includes a variety of activity courses from which the student may select. Emphasis is on an “activity for all” approach, in hopes that each person will discover that physical activity can contribute to his/her well being now and in the future. Most classes are coed and instruction is given at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels.
The recreation program promotes and encourages students, faculty, and staff to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle. One goal of the program is to maintain stimulating, challenging, and inviting programming. Recreational and leisure activities focus on integrating mind and body through positive traditional and non-traditional recreational activities.
Athletic programs are another opportunity for the educational enrichment of individuals seeking a more competitive and challenging physical environment. A broad-based program of varsity, club, and intramural activities is intended to meet a range of individual commitment, interest, and ability.
Varsity athletics shares the same goals as physical education and recreation, providing the student-athlete with greater opportunity for self-testing, skill development, and the pursuit of excellence. Varsity teams are for highly committed student-athletes with exceptional drive and physical capabilities. Student-athletes seek out the direction of professional coaches for opportunities beyond the scope of the physical education curriculum and the recreational programs.