Health and Fitness Walks

This course focuses on power walking as a means to improve the capacities of both the body and mind. Starting with an assessment of muscular functions, posture, breathing, and healthy eating, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and techniques of aerobic walking, Ultimately they will be able to plan and take part in a successful workout comprised of stretching, exercise, and cool-down. The course is based on a series of intense power walks throughout the city, embracing Florence as an open-air gymnasium. The approach of this course is based on experiencing the city of Florence as an academic space for learning and engagement. Classes are not held in a traditional, frontal-style setting; each lesson is carefully mapped for curricular content and featured locations: lectures, observations, exercises, analysis, and reflections on presented topics are held in relevant sites that are accounted for in the academic planning, syllabus, and related course material. Coursework and submissions will be regularly assessed on the MyFUA platform through daily assignments in addition to exams, papers, and projects. Learning through the on-site classroom approach fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural environment of Florence and how it is related to the course topic, and allows for an overall experience which contributes to students' academic and personal enrichment.