Graduate Supervisor Wins $70K in SportsArt Energy Generating Cardio Equipment

Logo for SportsArtCleveland State University was recently announced as the grand prize winner in SportsArt’s nationwide Campus Challenge sweepstakes. As part of this honor, the CENTERS @ CSU University Recreation and Wellbeing department is being awarded SportsArt’s ECO-POWR™ energy-generating premium cardio equipment valued at over $70,000. The SportsArt Campus Challenge hopes to spark a campus movement towards a more sustainable world. By harnessing human energy and championing eco-friendly practices, CSU and other participating universities are paving the way for a greener, healthier future. 

The Campus Challenge encouraged college students across the nation to embrace sustainability in their daily lives and pledge their efforts through TikTok videos, igniting a wave of eco-conscious commitments among campuses. CSU’s victory underscores its dedication to sustainability, exemplified by graduate supervisor Laura Gavin’s winning pledge to conserve electricity by turning off lights when leaving a room.

“Sustainability is an important initiative on Cleveland State’s campus,” said Laura Garvin, winner of the 2024 SportsArt Campus Challenge and Graduate Supervisor of Recreation Programming at CSU. “Our University Recreation and Wellbeing team embodies this through environmentally-friendly programs and services.” 

The ECO-POWR™ equipment, including the groundbreaking G690 Verde Treadmill, promotes fitness and converts human energy into usable electricity, reducing carbon footprints and contributing to grid sustainability. This initiative aligns perfectly with CSU’s environmental goals, as noted by Nick Froelich, Director of University Recreation and Wellbeing. 

“Cleveland State University is excited to partner with Sports Art with the placement of their ECO-POWR™ cardio equipment,” said Nick. “The equipment achieves on our department’s strategic priorities by offering physical, environmental and financial wellness opportunities for our students, faculty, staff and surrounding CSU community.” 

The new energy-generating cardio equipment is the latest in a series of high-impact initiatives at Cleveland State University’s Recreation Center. The CENTERS team @ CSU ensures that the center isn’t just a space for fitness and recreation—it’s a hub of sustainability, embodying a commitment to environmental consciousness throughout the operation. Leaders have woven a culture of sustainability throughout the operation and instilled an entrepreneurial drive in its people to find ways to maximize environmentally-conscious initiatives throughout the organization including these top initiatives.

Water refilling station at CSU Recreation Center
#2: Reducing Plastic Waste
Reflective exterior glass in the CSU Recreation Center lobby.
#5 Energy Efficient Infrastructure
#7 Healthier Indoor Spaces
Spring crops being maintained by Farmbot
#8 Living Green Spaces

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOP 10 MOST IMPACTFUL WAYS TO OPERATIONALIZE SUSTAINABILITY IN YOUR FACILITY

  1. Embracing LEED Certification: The recreation center’s LEED certification isn’t just a badge of honor—it’s a commitment to holistic sustainability. By adhering to LEED standards, the center ensures its operations align with principles of energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental responsibility. This approach not only reduces costs but also promotes a healthier indoor environment for patrons and staff alike.
  2. Reducing Plastic Waste: One notable initiative is the installation of water-refilling stations, encouraging patrons to opt for reusable water bottles over disposable ones. This simple yet impactful change helps curb plastic waste while promoting healthier hydration habits among visitors.
  3. Water Conservation Measures: The center integrates low-flow capacity shower heads, toilets and urinals, as well as a water reclamation system, to significantly reducing water consumption without compromising on user experience. These measures showcase a thoughtful approach to resource management, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
  4. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices: A shift to hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning chemicals underscores the center’s commitment to safer, more environmentally-friendly cleaning practices. These cleaners not only ensure effective sanitation but also minimize harmful impacts on both indoor air quality and the surrounding ecosystem.
  5. Energy-Efficient Infrastructure: From reflective exterior glass that aids in energy conservation to the ongoing transition to LED lighting throughout the facility, energy efficiency is a cornerstone of the center’s design and operational philosophy. These upgrades not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to a more comfortable and sustainably-built environment.
  6. Sustainable Materials and Design: The use of recycled materials in construction and design further emphasizes the center’s dedication to sustainability. From flooring to furnishings, these choices reduce environmental impact while promoting a circular economy mindset.
  7. Healthier Indoor Spaces: Low- or zero-VOC paint selections contribute to healthier indoor air quality, creating a more pleasant and sustainable environment for all occupants.
  8. Living Green Spaces: The center’s green roof patio not only provides a scenic outdoor retreat but also showcases self-sustaining plants and innovative gardening technologies like Farmbot. These features enhance the aesthetic appeal while also serving as living examples of sustainable practices.
  9. Educational Outreach and Collaboration: Environmental workshops and programming, in collaboration with university academic programs and student support services, engage and educate the community on sustainability topics. This integrated approach fosters a culture of environmental stewardship among students, staff, and visitors alike.
  10. Cutting-Edge Equipment for Sustainability: Graduate Supervisor Laura Gavin’s win in the 2024 SportsArt Campus challenge adds another dimension to the center’s sustainability efforts. The $70,000 in energy-generating cardio equipment, including seven pieces of ECO-POWR™ equipment, demonstrates a commitment to integrating sustainability into fitness routines. These cutting-edge machines not only promote physical fitness but also generate energy during workouts, contributing to the center’s overall sustainability goals. The grand prize, exclusively available to student entries, and awarded to CENTERS @ CSU includes:
      • G690 ECO-POWR™ Treadmill 
      • G260 ECO-POWR™ Rower 
      • G778 ECO-POWR™ Stepper 
      • G876 ECO-POWR™ Elliptical 
      • G576U ECO-POWR™ Upright Cycle 
      • G576R ECO-POWR™ Recumbent Cycle 
      • G516 ECO-POWR™ Indoor Cycle 
CSU students study on green roof.
#9. Educational Outreach and Collaboration

The Cleveland State University Recreation Center isn’t just a fitness facility—it’s a case study in how to operationalize a commitment to environmental responsibility. Through thoughtful initiatives and ongoing educational efforts, it serves as a model for sustainable practices within academic and recreational spaces.