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CORVALLIS - A program launched last year to encourage Oregon State University students, faculty and staff to become more physically active will resume in earnest this winter term.

Called "Beaver Strides," the program drew a hundred participants last year through a series of informational sessions and activities. Sponsored by the health promotion department in OSU's Student Health Services, Beaver Strides will hold a kickoff session at noon on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Student Health Services (Plageman Bldg. Room 322). The program is free to OSU students, faculty and staff.

"What we're trying to do is create more opportunities for people on campus to participate in activities that will lead them to better health," said Celine Hollombe, a master's student in public health. "We also want to provide information on topics ranging from nutrition to the importance of stretching and stress reduction."

Hollombe said the weekly informational sessions will be held every Wednesday at noon in Plageman 322. Beaver Strides also will organize group walks four times a week, held from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from 5 to 6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. Meeting places will vary, she added.

"We're creating an e-mail list-serv for participants so we can let people know when new activities are scheduled," Hollombe said.

Participants may log their activities, keeping track of their "Beaver Stride miles."

"Research shows that tracking activities is one of the best ways to maintain activity," Hollombe said. "Beaver Strides miles can be accumulated by walking, biking, swimming and eating fruits and vegetables. And we'll have some great prizes to give out, too."

Beaver Strides is an ongoing program that people can join any time during the term. More information is available by calling 541-737-2775.