COLUMBUS -- Like to exercise? Always wanted to break a world record? Well, put down the jump rope and mark your calendar for Sept. 19 because martial arts expert and Tae Bo creator Billy Blanks will be at The Ohio State University to lead what organizers hope will be the largest aerobics class to date.

The event, which is open to the public, will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. on the Oval at Ohio State's main campus. Blanks will lead the class from a large stage at the northeast section of the Oval, and a jumbotron will ensure that participants will be able to follow Blanks' instructions, said Matt Couch, assistant director of student activities & campus programs.

Currently, the record for the largest aerobics display is 38,633 set by the University of Guadalajara in Mexico on June 6, 1998, Couch said.

"Believe me, we know that's a lot of people. But we're willing to give it our best try," Couch said. "At the least, we'll all get a great workout. And if we break it, that's all the better."

With the possibility of a commencement-like crowd descending on campus, Couch urges participants to come early and park at one of the university's parking garages or at the lots on west campus and the Jerome Schottenstein Center, Couch said. Shuttle buses will run from both parking lots, he added. Car-pooling and taking COTA buses also are suggested, Couch said.

In order to document the record-breaking attempt, an accurate count of participants must be taken, Couch said. Participants will be asked to sign in at one of six entry points around the Oval and will be given a number to pin to the back of their shirts. A video and pictures also will be taken during the event.

"When that's all done, you're ready to find a spot," Couch said. "Make sure to leave yourself and the people around you enough room to punch and kick and have a great time."

For more information on this event, or to see a complete listing of Welcome Week 2000 events, please check out www.osu.edu/welcomeweek

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