AQUATICS
A class for novice and veteran swimmers alike. Basic and advanced stroke and turn technique are covered, along with water conditioning and aspects of water safety, although no lifeguard certificate is awarded. One double period.

BADMINTON
Badminton is a course for all skill levels. Beginners learn the game by working on fundamental stroke technique; more advanced players polish their skills while improving game strategy. All students participate in exciting singles and doubles matches.

BASEBALL
In this class students explore a variety of elements within the game of baseball. A range of drills furthers the development of specific skills and proper mechanics. Students not only practice the physical components of the game, but discuss the rules and various strategies as well.

BASKETBALL
This class is for the novice and experienced ballplayer alike. Early on, drills and skill work are emphasized, with students receiving both group and individual instruction. As offensive and defensive skills improve, half court and full court games are offered at varying levels of competitiveness.

CLIMBING
Students explore vertical and horizontal climbs on our apparatus room climbing wall, learning various climbing techniques—crossover, jump toe, etc.—and belaying techniques. There will be a day trip to an off-site climb.

EXERCISE & FITNESS
This course in conditioning utilizes a variety of fitness and exercise forms. Students learn how to build a training program suited to their own level of fitness and personal goals. The course includes aerobic, anaerobic, calisthenic and low impact activities. The utilization of weight machines and cardiovascular equipment enhances the students’ overall understanding of fitness and its importance.

FENCING 1
This class, covering the fundamentals of fencing, is open to beginners and those with a limited background in fencing. Students learn basic fencing movements and strategies.

FENCING 2
Limited to students with at least one year of fencing, and permission of the instructor. The class stresses conditioning, competitive bouts, and advanced techniques.

FLOOR HOCKEY
This is an enjoyable and exciting class for all skill levels. Students improve hand-eye coordination and knowledge of the game through drills and games. All hockey fans will enjoy this course.

INWARD BOUND CHALLENGE COURSE 1
This course challenges body, mind and spirit through group games, conditioning, and individual and collective goals. Students set and attempt to reach these goals by working together and offering group support. The year ends with a three-day camping trip that includes climbing and a ropes course.

INWARD BOUND CHALLENGE COURSE 2
This course continues in the same vein as Inward Bound 1. Emphasis is on student leadership: leading the class and organizing activities. New activities stressing initiative are introduced, as are rope and belay techniques. Prerequisite: Inward Bound 1

KARATE 1
Students learn the basic punches, kicks and blocks of traditional Tae Kwon Do (Korean karate), combining these techniques in the practice of forms and freestyle sparring. Some self defense applications are covered, although the primary emphasis of the course is on karate as a sport and martial art. A gi (karate uniform) is supplied by the school.

KARATE 2
This class is for students who have completed a minimum of one year’s training in the Saint Ann ’s martial arts program. We cover material for the color belt ranks, with increased emphasis on free fighting and street defense. Qualified students may compete in New York area tournaments.

PHYSIOBALL FITNESS
Using exercise balls of various sizes, this class teaches different exercises designed to increase flexibility, improve coordination, and develop strength. The emphasis is on core (abdominal and back) strengthening and conditioning.

PILATES CONDITIONING
The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises developed over ninety years ago by Joseph Pilates. It strengthens and tones muscles, improves posture, enhances flexibility and balance, and unites body and mind.

RUNNING
A course to help people with little or no running experience; experienced runners are also welcome. Stretching and cooling down exercises are taught, along with techniques to improve form and increase speed. Weekly runs vary in distance and intensity. Running routes change from week to week.

SOCCER
This course is a combination of skill development and scrimmaging that is open to all levels of ability. Small-sided games, both indoors and outdoors, are fun and competitive and also serve as an effective way to gauge progress. Come and see why soccer is the world’s most popular game.

SOFTBALL
A course for the beginner as well as the experienced softball player. Within the context of games, students have the opportunity to learn new skills and share in the enjoyment of this popular sport.

TAP
This class teaches rhythmic tap technique, working with complicated foot rhythms that lead to improvisation. The body attitude is grounded (closer to the ground), like African dance, as opposed to the lifted attitude of the Broadway tap style. Traditional and contemporary works are learned.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE
Ultimate offers a fun, exciting alternative to traditional sports. Students incorporate throwing, catching and teamwork into a framework of speed and finesse.

VOLLEYBALL
This class incorporates both instruction and game playing, including the skills of serving, bumping, setting, spiking and, most important, teamwork.

WEIGHT & FITNESS TRAINING
This course introduces the student to the merits of weight and fitness training. Both free-weight and machine work are incorporated into each personally designed workout. Other areas to be explored include flexibility (through stretching), proper nutrition, and the value of aerobic training.

YOGA
An introduction to one of the oldest existing forms of physical exercise. Increases body awareness, flexibility, and concentration.

ADVANCED YOGA
In this class we explore advanced yoga postures, breathing techniques, and beginning meditation. One double period. Prerequisite: One year of yoga or permission of the instructor

INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS
The recreational arts requirement may be fulfilled through full-season participation as a player on a junior varsity or varsity team. Emphasis is placed on developing and fostering athletic standards of excellence through participation and competition. All team sports require a significant commitment to practice and game schedules. Saint Ann ’s is a member of the Athletic Conference of Independent School (ACIS), and the girls’ teams also belong to the Athletic Association of Independent Schools (AAIS). Our baseball team is a member of the Private Schools Athletic Association (PSAA). Teams and clubs include baseball, basketball, fencing, gymnastics, soccer, softball, squash, track, volleyball.