Lab classes in the Colleges of Science and Geosciences also count. Kinesiology activity classes and 1-hour elective classes do not count. That is why the limit on Q-drops was adopted. After you jump the hurdle, your GPR can drop with less consequences. Therefore, if you are having problems making the grades you need, it can be more advantageous to use a Q-drop your freshman year rather than saving all three for later.
Most freshmen are overly optimistic about being able to pull up grades.
This optimism is based on high school experience which does not apply to the university environment. In many classes the only wise decision is to drop the class. If the class is important for your major, just passing with a D will not be considered acceptable and you will have to retake it anyway. A D may be passing but it hurts your GPR, and reduces your chance of accessing competitive majors. Deciding whether or not to retake a class is a complicated decision, one you should discuss with an advisor.