About SMASH

Skilled Movement and Activity Supporting Healthspan

What is SMASH?

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Two Study Conditions

Participants are randomly assigned to one of two conditions:

Instructor-Led Condition

Structured pickleball instruction with certified instructors who guide skill development, provide feedback, and lead organized drills and gameplay.

  • Progressive skill instruction
  • Guided practice drills
  • Structured gameplay
  • Direct feedback from instructors

Free-Play Condition

Self-directed pickleball play with court time and equipment provided. Participants engage in recreational play at their own pace with other study participants.

  • Open court time
  • Equipment provided
  • Social play opportunities
  • Flexible pace

Note: Both conditions receive the same amount of pickleball time. Assignment is random and helps us understand how different types of physical activity instruction affect health outcomes.

What to Expect

1

Screening

Complete a brief online questionnaire to determine eligibility.

2

Baseline Testing

Visit our lab for cognitive assessments, fitness testing, and to complete study consent.

3

8-Week Program

Attend pickleball sessions 3 times per week at local parks.

4

Follow-Up Testing

Return to the lab for post-program assessments.

Research Goals

The SMASH study aims to understand:

  • How pickleball affects cognitive function in older adults
  • Whether structured instruction provides additional benefits beyond regular physical activity
  • The social and psychological benefits of group-based sport participation
  • Factors that promote long-term physical activity engagement

About the Exercise, Technology, & Cognition Lab

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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Department of Health and Kinesiology

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Research Team

Sean Mullen, PhD

Principal Investigator

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Kennady Douglas

Graduate Research Assistant

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Xuan Lin

Graduate Research Assistant

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Interested in Participating?

Check your eligibility and learn more about what's involved.

Join the Study