Standing in the line that snaked across the front counter of Joegies, Tommy Otterbine scanned the posted menu of subs and sides.

"I usually would get a chicken cheese steak and fries, which is probably the least healthy thing in the HUB," Otterbine (junior-microbiology) said as he decided on an Italian sub. "But I haven't had that in a while."

This week marks the beginning of many preparations for Otterbine, a dancer for this year's Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon.

"I've had to change my mindset on everything -- trying to be cautious about what I eat, what I drink, trying not to be on my feet for long periods of time," Otterbine said.

The usual caffeinated beverage that is frequently nestled among the notebooks and napkins of Otterbine's lunch break has instead been replaced with a bottle of water.

"I love caffeine, and I'm a big coffee drinker," Otterbine said.

"I thought it would be a lot of withdrawal, but after a few days [without caffeine], I actually feel better about myself -- I'm not falling asleep in class," he said jokingly, adding that he limits his time in the HUB-Robeson Center to avoid the aromatic temptation of fresh coffee.

Otterbine, the president of PSU Club XC, a cross-country running group, said he would trade his strenuous training for lighter workouts this week.

"They said to make sure you're exercising," he said. "I run every day the way it is, but this week, maybe I'll do an easy four or five mile run every day."

Some 700 additional dancers will also be snoozing a bit longer, sipping a little more orange juice and picking up a few extra socks this week in anticipation of the 48 straight hours on their feet.

Christy Cheung (senior-psychology) said she must squeeze two exams and a paper into her already hectic schedule in the days leading up to Thon.

"This week seems like a lot of school and work and other commitments," Cheung said. "It's not one of those crazy weeks, but there are exams and homework due."

In addition to increasing her repetitions, Lori Melfi (sophomore-secondary education) has been breaking in a new set of sneakers at the gym to ward off blisters.

"It's good to have new shoes that are supportive and cushioned," Melfi said, adding that her sneakers were purchased with a 10 percent Thon dancer discount at Rapid Transit Sportswear, 115 S. Allen St.

Gathering the paper trash -- conspicuously unstained from oil blots -- after finishing his meal, Otterbine said the inspiration felt by the dancers comes from those who are involved with Thon, especially from the Four Diamonds families.

"I know a lot of people who are freaked out because they don't think they're going to make it," he said. "If this is something in your heart that you want to do, trust that everyone there will get you through."