Treadmill desks bring movement to study spaces

Treadmill desks installed in various locations across campus offer students, faculty and staff a new way to incorporate movement into their study and work routines.

“Active living goes beyond the ‘gym.’ Movement can be part of how you study, work and connect every day,” says Albert Iamartino, director of Active Living and the Outdoor Centre at UCalgary’s Faculty of Kinesiology.

Student feedback inspires more active study spaces

The idea grew from conversations between Iamartino and Kinesiology Dean Nick Holt, informed by feedback gathered through Active Living’s biennial student experience survey. Students identified a need for more spaces that support both studying and an active campus experience. 

Active Living installed its first three treadmill desks in the Kinesiology Complex, which saw strong use. Three additional desks were added before the initiative expanded to Hunter Student Commons, a central gathering and study space open to the wider campus community. 

“We wanted to become bigger than our proverbial four walls and to reach more students who may not be able, or may not have the time to, come to Active Living,” says Iamartino. “We’re here to support our entire campus community.”  

Active Living staff check the desks regularly to ensure they remain clean and in working order. Although use is not formally tracked, Iamartino says staff frequently see students studying together, friends catching up, and faculty and staff holding meetings at the desks. 

Movement meets academics

As UCalgary's student population grows, the treadmill desks offer another way to support physical, mental and social well-being in the spaces students already use. The initiative reflects Active Living's involvement in the university's Community Mental Health and Well-Being Strategy by encouraging students to incorporate movement into their daily routines. 

Second-year UCalgary law student Emilie Fournier says the treadmills have helped her balance wellness and academics. “As a law student, a lot of my day is spent reading and studying,” says Fournier, BA’23, MMgmt’24. “The treadmill desks make it easier to stay active without taking time away from my coursework. They’ve allowed me to multitask and feel productive, as I’m doing something good for my body while also studying and preparing for class.”

Fournier's experience highlights how small opportunities for movement can support students' academic and personal well-being.

“Making movement part of your daily routine helps you feel and perform better,” says Iamartino. “Incorporating light activity like walking while studying or working supports focus, energy and overall well-being.”

Bringing movement to more campus spaces 

Active Living plans to continue expanding the initiative. Additional treadmill desks were recently added to the main and upper floors of the Taylor Family Digital Library, and to Foothills, Spy Hill and the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape downtown campus

“Making movement more accessible is what this initiative is all about,” says Iamartino. “By bringing these desks to spaces where people already study and work, we're helping make physical activity a natural part of everyday campus life.”