by Jay Barlett
HAMILTON, Ont. — McMaster University’s Pulse Fitness Centre and The Hub (Student Activity Building) have received international acclaim, earning a 2025 NIRSA Outstanding Facilities Award and a coveted spot in Athletic Business magazine’s Architectural Showcase.
The Pulse is one of the largest fitness centres at a Canadian university, offering more than 60,000 square feet of active space. It features cutting-edge cardio and strength equipment, two fitness studios, a cycling studio, a 30-foot climbing wall and bouldering section, a womens’s-only gym and studio, and extensive accessibility features, including universal equipment and programs designed for users of all abilities. The facility is staffed by certified personal trainers and offers a robust schedule of drop-in group fitness classes to support the health and wellbeing of the McMaster community.
The NIRSA award, presented annually by NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation, recognizes excellence in recreation facility design across North America. Judging criteria include campus impact, architectural aesthetics, sustainability, innovative materials and technology, and integration into programming and staffing.
“This recognition is an incredible honour and a proud moment for our entire team,” said Lee‑Anne Wilson, Manager, Fitness & Wellbeing, who has been integral to the project – from planning to procurement to now operating the state-of-the-art facility. “It reflects the vision and hard work of so many team members who helped bring these spaces to life.”
Designed by MJMA Architecture & Design, the $31‑million expansion added The Hub and reimagined The Pulse Fitness Centre to add nearly 20,000 square feet of new active space. Upgrades include cutting edge fitness equipment, flexible studios and enhanced social zones designed to foster connection and wellbeing on campus.
“This project has truly transformed the student recreation experience at McMaster,” said Trish Chant‑Sehl, Associate Director, Recreation & Healthy Living. “Our goal was to create spaces that feel inclusive, inspiring and supportive of both physical and mental health. The result is a space where all students feel welcome, supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive.”
“To see the Pulse and The Hub recognized on this scale is incredibly rewarding and reflects the impact these facilities are already having on campus life, and is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our staff to always have our students’ needs at the heart of every decision.”
The recognition reinforces McMaster’s commitment to advancing student health and wellbeing and supporting holistic wellness across campus.
“What fills us with the most joy is seeing how much our students love the space,” added Wilson. “It’s not just a place to work out, but a vibrant hub where people connect, build friendships, and support each other’s well-being. It’s truly become one of the most energizing places on campus.”
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For more information about The Pulse Fitness Centre or programming, visit https://active.mcmaster.ca/recreation/pulse-fitness-centre/
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