What is GLIDE?

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Two Study Conditions

Participants are randomly assigned to one of two conditions:

Instructor-Led Condition

Structured disc golf instruction with experienced instructors who guide skill development, provide feedback on throwing technique, and lead organized practice and course play.

  • Progressive throwing instruction
  • Technique feedback and coaching
  • Guided course navigation
  • Structured skill-building drills

Free-Play Condition

Self-directed disc golf with course access and equipment provided. Participants play rounds at their own pace with other study participants, exploring courses and developing skills naturally.

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

Note: Both conditions receive the same amount of disc golf time. Assignment is random and helps us understand how different approaches to physical activity 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 disc golf sessions 3 times per week at local courses.

4

Follow-Up Testing

Return to the lab for post-program assessments.

Research Goals

The GLIDE study aims to understand:

  • How disc golf affects cognitive function in older adults
  • Whether structured instruction provides additional benefits beyond recreational play
  • The social and psychological benefits of outdoor group-based activity
  • Factors that promote long-term engagement with disc golf as a lifestyle habit

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