Movement Behavior Lab (MoBL)

Movement Behavior Lab logo featuring a stylized blue owl design combined with the letters M and B

Mission

The Movement Behavior Lab (MoBL) is a teaching and research space dedicated to understanding the psychological, social, and behavioral processes that shape motor learning, performance, and physical activity participation. Supporting courses such as Motor Learning and Psychological Aspects of Sport and Exercise, MoBL gives students hands-on opportunities to explore how motivation, feedback, self-efficacy, perceived competence, social support, and identity influence skill acquisition, performance, and engagement in physical activity.

Through lab activities, demonstrations, and faculty-mentored research, students connect scientific concepts with applied human movement experiences. MoBL’s work contributes to more supportive, inclusive, and effective approaches to movement instruction, sport performance, rehabilitation, physical activity promotion, and educational practice.

To learn more about the Movement Behavior Lab, contact Dr. Amanda Perkins-Ball at aperkinsball@rice.edu.

Research Projects

MoBL supports faculty-mentored, student-engaged research examining how psychological, social, and behavioral factors shape motor learning and performance. Current projects explore topics such as motivation, feedback, perceived competence, and performance climate on motor tasks.

We are regularly recruiting college students to participate in research studies. Students interested in participating or learning more can follow us on Instagram at @mobl_lab.

Student researcher smiling next to a research poster presentation during an academic showcase
Group of student researchers posing together in front of their department research poster
Students presenting and sharing their research findings during a departmental poster session
Students discussing academic research findings in front of a poster presentation

Lab Equipment

The Movement Behavior Lab (MoBL) uses state-of-the-art equipment, including:

  • Bassin Anticipation Timer (Model 35575) and Push Button Remote
  • MOART (Model 35601)
  • Stability Platform w/ Digital Control (Model 16030)
  • PsymCon Controllers (Model 35500)
  • PsymLab Psychomotor Control Software
  • emWave® Pro Plus software
  • Inner Balance Coherence Plus HRV sensor and app
Stability platform with digital control featuring a wooden standing board and metal frame in the lab
MOART psychomotor testing console featuring a white tabletop panel with gold button pads and indicator lights
Wall-mounted television display flanked by research posters inside the Movement Behavior Lab
Wide interior view of the Movement Behavior Lab showing computer workstations, testing tables, and a Rice logo on the wall

Biofeedback Lending Program

The Movement Behavior Lab (MoBL) offers a Biofeedback Lending Program that allows Rice students to check out portable biofeedback equipment at no cost. The program provides an opportunity to better understand physiological stress responses, practice evidence-based stress management techniques, and explore how biofeedback can support self-awareness, emotion regulation, recovery, and performance.

Whether preparing for an exam, competition, presentation, or simply looking to build effective stress management skills, participants are encouraged to use the equipment to gain hands-on experience with biofeedback technology outside the lab.

For more information about the Biofeedback Lending Program or to check out equipment, contact Dr. Amanda Perkins-Ball at aperkinsball@rice.edu.

Directions

The Movement Behavior Lab is located in the East Gym of Tudor Fieldhouse, Room S197. The lab is on the first floor in the northeast corner of the building.

If entering from the front of Tudor Fieldhouse on College Way, turn left after entering the main entrance, then turn right at the end of the hall. Continue down the long hallway and through the double doors. Make the next left; the East Gym is located past the stairs.

If entering from the back of Tudor Fieldhouse near Lot 6, make the first right. The East Gym is located past the stairs.

Contact Information


KINESIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

S203 Tudor Fieldhouse

(713)348-8318 (Office)
(713)348-8808 (Fax)

PHYSICAL ADDRESS

6100 Main St, MS-545 Houston, TX 77005

Our offices are located on the 2nd floor of Tudor Fieldhouse on the east side of the building. The easiest way to access our suite is to enter through the front entrance that faces the Inner Loop. You'll see the court in front of you. Turn left, then turn right, and turn right up the stairs. At the top of the stairs, turn right into the hallway. Our suite will be through the open door ahead on the left.