About Us
The Physical Literacy, Activity, and Youthful Function (PLAY) Lab is housed within the Department of Health and Kinesiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Directed by Dr. Shelby Keye, our interdisciplinary research explores how health behaviors—such as physical activity—relate to fitness outcomes (like motor skills and weight status) and brain function across the lifespan. By integrating approaches from kinesiology, neuroscience, and developmental science, we aim to understand how modifiable lifestyle factors influence both physical and cognitive development. Our work also involves designing and evaluating interventions to promote lasting, positive changes in health behaviors from childhood through adulthood.
Physical Literacy Activity and Youthful function Laboratory