Instructional Classes

Already taken one of our instructional classes? We would love your feedback! Please take our Participants Survey and tell us how we did! Completion of the survey will enter you into a drawing for Free Classes and UCLA Recreation Merchandise.

We have a broad range of instructional classes available in Arts, Dance, Fitness, Martial Arts, Sports, Swimming, Tennis, Water Aerobics, Yoga and more (choose from the left menu). Many classes are designed for beginning and intermediate skill levels, but there are also advanced classes. Group Exercise, Personal Fitness Training and Private Instruction are also available.

View Activity Dates & Prices

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  Have any questions about Instructional Classes? Send us an email at instruction@recreation.ucla.edu.

For other enrollment options or to request a refund, transfer or payroll deduction cancellation, click here.


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Programs & Classes

Private Instruction

 

Private one-on-one instruction is available for most of our instructional activities, including but not limited to arts, dance, martial arts, sports and aquatics. We also offer semi-private, 2 participant instruction at a reduced rate per person. 

How Private/Semi-Private Instruction Enrollment Works:

1. First you must download and complete a Private Instruction Enrollment Form. The form is also available at the Sales & Cashiering Desk located inside the John Wooden Center. On this form, you will specify your activity, how many hours of instruction you would like, and make the payment.

2. Within the next 3 business days, your application will be processed and the Instructional Programs Unit will contact you via email to put you in touch with an instructor, with whom you can discuss goals and meeting times.

3. Once you have arranged specific times and days to meet with your instructor, and the facility's availability has been confirmed with the Instructional Programs Unit, instruction may begin. This could take up to 10 business days.

When completing the Private Instruction Enrollment Form, please ensure that:

  • The front page is completed entirely.
  • The waiver on the second page has your printed name on the top, and you have signed and dated it twice.
  • The last page of the packet, titled PAR-Q & YOU, is completed entirely

 

Private (and Semi-Private) Instruction Rates:

  • UCLA Student (Undergrad or Graduate): $39/hr for private, $29/hr for semi-private*
  • UCLA Rec Member: $49/hr for private, $39/hr for semi-private*
  • UCLA Affiliates: $59/hr for private, $49/hr for semi-private*

*Semi-private instruction rate is per person.

Note: You cannot purchase additional hours from your instructor (he/she will never ask you for money/payment).
 

Frequently Asked Questions:

When can I start my private instruction?
Scheduling your first sessions may take up to 10 business days.

Does my private instruction expire?
All private instruction expires one year from the date of purchase.

How do I add more sessions to my private instruction? 
All you need to do is complete and turn in a Private Instruction Enrollment Form .

How does semi-private instruction work?
Semi-private instruction is limited to 2 participants per instructor per hour. Both must fill out separate Private Instruction Enrollment Forms; on the front page there is a line to indicate who the second participant is. 

What if one participant is absent from semi-private instruction?
The class counts toward your total hours even if only one person attends. To schedule a makeup, both need to cancel with the instructor at least 24 hours before the class.

If you have any further questions regarding private instruction, feel free to email us at instruction@recreation.ucla.edu.


Arts

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The Arts are an important aspect of our basic quality of life. The Arts not only enrich our experiences but educate us about the world we live in, provide a means for self exploration and nurture the celebration of cultural diversity. Cultivate and improve your appreciation of the arts. Expand your cultural horizons and experience personal and recreational enrichment with these introductory level arts classes.

 

  • Digital Photography

Digital Photography is designed for all levels of photographers. Students will learn the fundamentals of photography in a course setting structured to enhance their creative abilities through group feedback and critiques. Although not required, students are encouraged to work with their images with software such as Photoshop, Lightroom or Aperture. Iphoto and other editing software is acceptable as well. Assignments will vary from sports to portraiture and other topics with the overall goal being a firm understanding of camera operation to achieve quality photographs in a variety of settings. Although the syllabus represents the basic structure of the course, it is subject to change to meet the needs and levels of the class as a whole

  • Figure Drawing

In this class you will learn the basics of drawing from a nude figure. The class is geared towards beginner and intermediate drawers, and no previous figure drawing experience is necessary as all concepts are simplified and clearly explained. We will draw from short gesture quick poses and longer poses, from both male and female models of varying body types. Learn about rhythm, shading, weight shift, drawing materials, etc. Equal emphasis will be given to accuracy and emotional expression.


  • Guitar

In this class you will learn the basics of drawing from a nude figure. The class is geared towards beginner and intermediate drawers, and no previous figure drawing experience is necessary as all concepts are simplified and clearly explained. We will draw from short gesture quick poses and longer poses, from both male and female models of varying body types. Learn about rhythm, shading, weight shift, drawing materials, etc. Equal emphasis will be given to accuracy and emotional expression.


  • Improv Comedy NEW!!!

In this class you will learn the basics of drawing from a nude figure. The class is geared towards beginner and intermediate drawers, and no previous figure drawing experience is necessary as all concepts are simplified and clearly explained. We will draw from short gesture quick poses and longer poses, from both male and female models of varying body types. Learn about rhythm, shading, weight shift, drawing materials, etc. Equal emphasis will be given to accuracy and emotional expression.


  • Mixed Media Arts

This collage class is designed for various skill levels and no previous experience is necessary. An array of techniques and emphasis on the principles of art will be introduces and incorporated into the art work. Some of these techniques include: creating backgrounds with textured paint, image transfers, and antiquing with acrylic paint. The goal is to complete two finished collages by the end of the quarter.


  • Mixin' & Scratchin' 

Create your own DJ name for "battles" and "showcases" while you learn mixin', scratchin' and sampling in this fun and creative music class. You will learn song structure, how to use B.P.M (beats per minute,) the tempo of a song, how to mix seamlessly, and finally, how to put a set together. In addition, you will learn how to use a variety of equipment from turntables to mixers and CD's

  • Taiko Drumming

Come learn how to play Taiko, Japanese American drumming, from UCLA students just like you! In this class, you will also develop an understanding of the history of the art throughout the world, as well as learn the fundamentals of playing the Taiko. Additionally, you will be introduced to the various styles and forms for playing the instrument that have developed throughout the United States and Japan. Taiko is a great way to workout and tone your entire body while learning a little bit about Japanese-American culture along the way. Register and come learn how to play these drums of thunder!


  • Watercolor Painting

Watercolor painting will teach the fundamentals of the art as well as experimental techniques. The class is designed for all skill levels, and no previous experience is necessary as techniques will be introduced and incorporated into the work. The syllabus will frame the course, but the subject will change according to the needs and levels of the class as a whole. The goal is to create two finished paintings by the end of the quarter, and students are encouraged to work outside of class to hone their skills.


 

Rock Wall

Once you attend this orientation, you can return whenever you'd like to climb for FREE!

Experience the thrill and challenge of climbing! At UCLA's very own indoor Rock Wall, our instructors get you climbing on your own in this two-hour introductory seminar. During the seminar, you will learn the knots, rope skills, and climbing moves to help you conquer the wall. Climbing is an excellent workout for people at every level of physical conditioning, so come learn the techniques and thrills of indoor climbing. No experience necessary. Includes all rentals and instruction.

Rock Wall Orientations, Level BEG         Fee: $15To sign up, click here

Winter Quarter:

    Sec 01: 1/9/14                      Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 02: 1/13/14                    M 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 03: 1/16/14                    Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 04: 1/22/13                    W 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 05: 1/24/14                    F 12:00 - 2:00 pm
    Sec 06: 1/30/14                    Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 07: 2/3/14                      M 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 08: 2/7/14                      M12:00 - 2:00 pm
    Sec 09: 2/13/14                    F 12:00 - 2:00 pm
    Sec 10: 2/19/14                    W 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 11: 3/5/14                      W 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 12: 3/7/14                      F 12:00 - 2:00 pm
    Sec 13: 3/11/14                    Tu 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Spring Quarter:

    Sec 01: 4/3/14                      Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 02: 4/14/14                    M 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 03: 4/17/14                    Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 04: 4/23/13                    W 6:00 - 8:00 pm
    Sec 05: 4/25/14                    F 12:00 - 2:00 pm  
    Sec 06: 5/1/14                      Th 6:00 - 8:00 pm  
    Sec 07: 5/5/14                      M 6:00 - 8:00 pm  
    Sec 08: 5/12/14                    M12:00 - 2:00 pm 
    Sec 09: 5/16/14                    F 12:00 - 2:00 pm  
    Sec 10: 5/21/14                    W 6:00 - 8:00 pm  
    Sec 11: 5/28/14                    W 6:00 - 8:00 pm      
    Sec 12: 6/3/14                      Tu 6:00 - 8:00 pm

 

Contact Us

oa@recreation.ucla.edu  310.206.1252

Sports

Click here to Register now!


Individual and team Sports are a great way to compete, stay mentally active, practice gamesmanship, and develop lifelong friendships with fellow sports enthusiasts. Test your physical prowess and agility in fencing and gymnastics. Measure your mental toughness and discipline in golf and archery. Challenge your physical fitness and endurance in soccer and basketball.  Join a class with your friends and have fun being the best athlete you can be.

TEAM SPORTS

The soccer class is for students of all skill levels and will teach you the basic skills necessary to better enjoy the sport of soccer. In addition, you will be exposed to real game situations in scrimmages against other members of the class. The class encourages students to learn through teamwork and cohesiveness. The format of the class is as following: warm up and stretching for the first 5-10 min, 30-mins of drills designed to help you develop basic skills used by soccer players of all skill levels, and lastly a scrimmage between teams carefully selected by the instructor for the rest of the time.

This class is open to everyone regardless of age or skill level. Students will learn the basic fundamentals of volleyball such as passing, setting, serving, hitting, and blocking. An introduction to rotations, terminology, rules, and offensive and defensive formations will also be implemented. A majority of the time will be spent demonstrating these skills through class participation and 6-on-6 scrimmages.


LIFE SPORTS

  • Tennis

    UCLA Recreation offers 2 types of classes: Group Lessons and Group Workouts. Here is a quick description of both:Group Lessons:Our group tennis lessons cater to anyone from the complete beginner to the advanced player. Focus is on fundamentals for beginners (stance, grip, body position, stroke mechanics, etc.) and position play and strategy for those who have been playing for a while. Class skill level ranges are: Beginning, Advanced Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced. Group Workouts: During our group tennis workouts you will engage in activities and exercises that are sport-specific to the game of tennis and participate in light competitive gameplay. You will be able to focus on your footwork, positioning, strategies, and court awareness. Condition alongside people who are a similar level and share the same passion as you. Workout skill level ranges are: Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced.

  • Golf

    This course teaches the basic fundamentals for learning and playing the game of golf. Emphasis is places on proper grip, set-up, posture, swing positions, movements, and club control. Drills and activities will help students develop feel and flow for particular shots. During the course, brief verbal instructions will accompany these activities as well as skill challenges and games designed to improve accuracy and distance control.


OLYMPIC SPORTS

  • Gymnastics

INDIVIDUAL/RECREATIONAL SPORTS

  • Running & Conditioning
  • Parkour

 

Tennis

The UCLA Recreational Tennis Program aims to provide tennis to the entire campus regardless of age or skill level. We have group lessons, workouts and private instruction catered to the absolute beginner, the player who needs individual stroke concentration and to those players who just want to play and improve their conditioning and/or strategic gameplay.

For a listing of all our Tennis classes and workouts download the activity guide. We also provide Private Instruction! Or to read descriptions of the Tennis classes we offer, see our online store.

Visit our Online Store and Register Now!

Meet our Elite Instructors!

Bill Bower

Bill Bower was an accomplished tennis player in high school, receiving a 4 year scholarship to play for Oregon State University. He later went onto the University Of Illinois where he received an acting fellowship and his Master's Degree in Theatre History. Bill has coached the Caltech men’s tennis team and currently instructs the elite tennis classes here at UCLA.

Class Syllabus - Beginning / Advanced Beginning Level with Bill Bower
Class Syllabus - Intermediate Level with Bill Bower
Class Syllabus - Advanced Level with Bill Bower

 

 Lori Levi

Lori Levi has had the good fortune of playing tennis all her life. She was on her high school tennis team, and after graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology began teaching tennis for UCLA Recreation’s Instructional Programs. She has been teaching for 15 years at UCLA and has experience with all age groups including children and senior citizens.  Presently she is the Tennis Supervisor for UCLA Recreation Program while also teaching adaptive tennis lessons to children with disabilities.

Recommended Items: We recommend that students bring their own tennis racquets to class. A limited number are also available for rent at Sunset Canyon Recreation Center if you do not have your own.

 

Want to just play with friends? Call Sunset Canyon Recreation Center at 310-825-3671 for availability and reservation information for the Sunset Canyon Recreation Center tennis courts, Sycamore Park or the Los Angeles Tennis Center courts.

To participate in competitive Tennis, check out the UCLA Recreation Tennis Club

Water Aerobics

WATER AEROBICS - THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE...

 

What are the benefits?  Check it out! Water aerobics helps improve and maintain the five components of fitness. 

 

1)  The cardiorespiratory system benefits from the reduced gravitational pull and the massaging action of the water. This improves circulation.  The external pressure of the water on the lungs and diaphragm causes deeper ventilation and increases the amount of oxygen the body absorbs.

 

2) In water the body is 10 times lighter at shoulder depth than it is on land (150 lbs./ land = 15 lbs./ water) thus allowing for greater range of motion, thereby improving flexibility.

 

3) Water supports the body for ease of movement without jolt and less impact, yet provides at least 12 to 14 times more resistance to movement in all directions.  This even resistance promotes muscle strength, tone and balance.

 

4) The cooling effect of water allows for longer periods of movement without the stress of heat and fatigue.  This helps to raise the endurance level.

 

5) Body composition improves as excess body fat is reduced.  In water exercise, the harder you work, the more calories you burn.  With proper conditions and motivation to work, it can be estimated that 400 + calories may be burned in a one hour water aerobic class.

Other Classes

Fitness, Kayaking, Martial Arts, Outdoor Adventures, Rowing, Sailing, Surfing, Stand Up Padding, Swimming, Yoga