Summertime tips for getting active on campus

Summer on campus has its own rhythm. The hallways are a little quieter, the pace is a little slower, and there are more opportunities to enjoy the sunshine between classes, work shifts, and everything else on your to-do list. If you're spending part of your summer at UCalgary, now is a great time to change your routine and find new ways to fit movement into your day.

Staying active doesn't have to mean setting aside an hour for the gym. Active Living is making it easier to build movement into the things you're already doing, whether that's walking between classes, studying or working at a Walkolution treadmill desk, or spending your lunch break outdoors. However you choose to move, there are plenty of ways to make being active part of your day.

New active spaces on campus 

The Fitness Centre remains a popular Active Living facility for those looking to fit in a workout. If you're looking for something different, check out the new Fitness Space on the reimagined west side of the Racquet Centre, located in the KNB hallway across from the Fitness Centre and toward the Olympic Oval.  Think of it as another option when the Fitness Centre is busy, or if you're simply looking for a different environment to work out in. The space includes a variety of strength and training equipment  All UCalgary students have an Active Living membership, so access is free—just scan your Unicard at the desk before you start!  

Just steps away, you'll also find the Outdoor Centre's MoonBoard and Kilter Board, designed for strength, power, and movement-specific bouldering. While separate from the Fitness Space, the boards are also available to Active Living members. Non-members can purchase a drop-in Day Pass to climb.

Get outside and have some fun

Exercise doesn't always have to feel like exercise. When the weather is nice, grab a friend, book a court, and head to the outdoor courts to play pickleball, tennis, or basketball. It's a great way to stay active, enjoy the sunshine, and spend time with friends without feeling like you're squeezing in a workout.

Looking for something a little different? Check out the Outdoor Fitness Area, a hidden gem located between the Olympic Oval and Kinesiology A. The space features equipment for stretching and functional training and is free to use year-round. Check out Active Living’s guide to learn how to use the equipment.

Explore campus on foot 

Need a quick break? The Movement Routes Map makes it easy to get outside and explore campus while fitting a little extra movement into your day. A walk can be a great way to clear your head, stretch your legs, and return to your day feeling more focused. Summer is also the perfect time to explore parts of campus you might not normally notice during the busy fall and winter terms. Who knows—you could find a new shortcut or study spot along the way.

Walk while you study or work 

If you've ever looked up from your laptop after a few hours and realized you haven't moved all day, you're not alone. That's where the Walkolution treadmill desks, brought to campus by Active Living, come in. These workstations are designed to make it easy to add movement to your day by combining studying or working with light physical activity. Whether you're answering emails, reading course materials, or tackling your to-do list, you can walk at a comfortable pace without disrupting your workflow. It's all part of Active Living's goal of making movement a natural part of everyday campus life.

You can find Walkolution treadmill desks on the second floor of the Kinesiology Atrium, near the east entrance of Kinesiology A, and in the Hunter Student Commons. Even more locations are planned for the future, so keep an eye out!

Tips from an Active Living expert

Looking for simple ways to stay consistent this summer? Julie Eldridge, Active Living's Personal and Group Fitness Coordinator, shares a few tips to help you add more movement to your day:

• Find an accountability buddy. Whether it's a roommate, classmate, or friend, having someone to walk, work out, or attend a fitness class with can help keep you motivated and make being active more enjoyable.
• Try a drop-in class or a new activity. Summer is the perfect time to explore something different. Check out a drop-in fitness class on campus—whether it's Pilates, yoga, or bootcamp, you might discover a new favourite way to move.
• Start small. You don't have to commit to an hour-long workout. Take the stairs, go for a 10-minute walk during a break, or fit in a few squats between tasks. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time.

If you're looking for more guidance, Active Living's personal trainers can help you build a routine that fits your schedule, goals, experience level and budget (students get a discounted rate). Whether you prefer one-on-one coaching, semi-private sessions, or small group training, there are options to suit a variety of comfort levels and fitness goals.

Short on time? Group Fitness classes are another great way to fit movement into your day, whether it's before class, after work, or over your lunch break. As an added bonus, current UCalgary students and Active Living membership holders receive 10% off regular personal training rates.