Lifetime Physical Activity Program

Welcome to the Lifetime Physical Activity Program at Rice University. We strive to make physical fitness an everyday part of the Rice community's lives. For more information on the program, read on.

Course Outlines for Fall 2008 now available

April 7, 2008

Curious about what that LPAP actually entails? Now you can check the Course Outlines and see exactly what's expected from each class.

Lifetime Physical Activity Program Mission Statement:

Historically, Rice University has recognized that becoming physically educated is integral to one's overall education. Since the university was founded in 1912, the Lifetime Physical Activity Program has worked to create a multi-faceted learning experience that promotes the physical, social, and emotional benefits of physical activity. It is the mission of the LPAP program to teach both the theoretical and practical components of a variety of exercise/performance activities such that they will bring enjoyment and demonstrate the importance of maintaining health and wellness throughout the course of a lifetime. Specifically, the goals of the Lifetime Physical Activity Program are:

• To encourage a lifetime of fitness through the teaching of mechanical, physiological, and nutritional principles.
• To teach other pertinent knowledge such as historical and cultural foundations, rules, and strategy.
• To create an environment that fosters a sense of emotional satisfaction, physical accomplishment, and social interaction for its participants.
• To provide students with high-quality instruction specific to course material so that they may learn skills that will improve the length and quality of their lives.
• To expose Rice University students to activities that are not necessarily mainstream in United States culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take LPAP courses to graduate?
Yes. Students must satisfactorily complete two different non-credit LPAP classes in order to earn their baccalaureate degree. Students with disabilities may make special arrangements to satisfy this requirement. (Contact the LPAP Director for more information.)

Can I take LPAP courses for credit?
Yes. The Lifetime Physical Activity Program also offers classes for credit. To register for an LPAP course for credit students must: (1) receive departmental approval, and (2) have already satisfied the LPAP graduation requirement. Students may not take more than 4 LPAP courses for credit.

When should I take LPAP classes?
It is strongly recommended that students satisfy their Lifetime Physical Activity course requirements during their first year at Rice University. However, students are technically able to take these classes at any point during their academic career.

What type of classes does the program offer?
The Lifetime Physical Activity Program offers a variety of sport/exercise/performance activities. In the 40+ sections that are offered each semester, many have a dual sport focus (i.e. volleyball/basketball), allowing a student to experience three or four activities during one year. See the "Course Schedule" for a full listing of classes that are offered each semester.

What should I expect from the LPAP classes?
Each Lifetime Physical Activity Program course should include: (1) the presentation of rules and strategies that are used in the activity; (2) exposure to skills and techniques used in the activity; (3) the presentation of wellness concepts/benefits of physical activity; (4) the discussion of the history and terminology related to the activity and; (5) exposure to etiquette and safety pertinent for the activity.

Can I get transfer credit for another physical activity course I have taken elsewhere?
The Lifetime Physical Activity Program will consider giving credit for similar physical activity courses taken at accredited educational institutions if these courses meet the LPAP standard. Please contact the LPAP Director for more specific information.

Questions? Concerns? Contact:
Assistant Dean, Boyd Beckwith
Phone: (713) 348-3718
E-mail: beckwith [at] rice.edu