Health Sciences Striders Launch Walking Group That is Open to All

January 15, 2015

Health Sciences Striders

If you see a group of faculty and staff stepping through campus around lunchtime several days a week, there's a good chance you're witnessing a new wellness-minded phenomenon at ODU: the Health Sciences Striders.

College of Health Sciences Dean Shelley Mishoe started the Striders on Jan. 5 as a way to promote a convenient approach to staying shape.

She introduced the initiative with a few simple questions:

• Did you eat too many Christmas cookies over the break?
• Are you feeling heavy and tired?
• Do you get frustrated by the low number of steps on your Fitbit?
• Are you yearning for a healthier lifestyle?

"If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then joining the Health Sciences Striders may be just for you!," Mishoe said.

The group meets at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in the lobby of the Health Sciences Building and departs for an approximately 40-minute walk on a pre-designated path covering a little more than two miles of campus.

And there's no need to sign up. The Striders are open to anyone interested in a healthy lunchtime walk. Just show up in comfortable walking shoes and you're in.

"Regular exercise and activity will give you more years, giving you more energy and TIME," Mishoe said. "And science has demonstrated that the hours following exercise are the most productive, efficient and effective!"

Scott Sechrist, associate chair for the School of Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences, has been on board with the Striders since their first steps together.

"Although I prefer running, I wanted to be part of the group at its inception," Sechrist said. "The whole idea is provide faculty and staff an opportunity to get some exercise during the midday and still be back in their office for a quick lunch or to attend a meeting, or get to class."