JOURNAL OF SPORTS SCIENCES

Scope & Guideline

Pioneering research at the intersection of health and athletics.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of JOURNAL OF SPORTS SCIENCES with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0264-0414
PublisherTAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1983 to 2024
AbbreviationJ SPORT SCI / J. Sports Sci.
Frequency15 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OR14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Sports Sciences focuses on the multifaceted realm of sports science, encompassing a wide array of research areas that advance our understanding of physical performance, health, and well-being in sports contexts. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in sports, health, and exercise.
  1. Performance Optimization:
    Research focusing on enhancing athletic performance through various training methods, nutritional strategies, and psychological interventions.
  2. Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation:
    Studies that investigate the mechanisms of sports injuries, their prevention, and effective rehabilitation strategies to ensure athletes can return to sport safely.
  3. Physiological Responses to Exercise:
    Investigations into how the body responds to different types of physical activity, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and neuromuscular adaptations.
  4. Technology in Sports:
    Exploration of the integration of technology in training and performance monitoring, including wearable devices, motion capture, and data analytics.
  5. Mental Health and Sports Psychology:
    Research examining the psychological aspects of sports, including motivation, mental toughness, and the effects of psychological interventions on performance.
  6. Youth and Developmental Sports Science:
    Studies focusing on the physical and psychological development of young athletes, including the effects of training and competition on long-term health outcomes.
  7. Nutrition and Exercise Physiology:
    Research on the role of nutrition in athletic performance and recovery, including supplementation and dietary patterns for various sports.
  8. Social and Cultural Aspects of Sport:
    Exploration of the societal, cultural, and ethical dimensions of sports, including issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion in athletic participation.
Emerging trends within the Journal of Sports Sciences reflect the evolving landscape of sports science research, showcasing innovative methodologies and areas of increasing importance. These trends highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues in sports and exercise science.
  1. Data-Driven Performance Analytics:
    There is a growing emphasis on the use of big data and analytics to optimize athlete performance and training strategies, incorporating machine learning and artificial intelligence.
  2. Holistic Athlete Health and Well-Being:
    Research focusing on the overall health, including mental health, nutrition, and recovery strategies, is gaining prominence, reflecting a more integrated approach to athlete care.
  3. Injury Mechanism and Prevention Research:
    In-depth studies on specific injury mechanisms and targeted prevention strategies are trending, highlighting the importance of understanding injury causes to develop effective interventions.
  4. Virtual and Augmented Reality in Training:
    The application of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies for training and skill development is emerging as a significant area of interest within sports science.
  5. Longitudinal and Developmental Studies in Youth Sports:
    Research examining the long-term effects of training and competition on youth athletes, including physical, psychological, and social outcomes, is increasingly relevant.
  6. Environmental and Contextual Factors in Performance:
    Studies exploring how environmental conditions (e.g., altitude, temperature) and contextual factors (e.g., game dynamics) influence athletic performance are gaining traction.
  7. Individualized Training Approaches:
    There is a notable trend towards personalized training regimens based on individual athlete profiles, including genetic, physiological, and psychological factors.
  8. Focus on Female Athlete Health:
    Research specifically addressing the unique health and performance needs of female athletes is becoming increasingly prominent, reflecting a broader awareness of gender differences in sports science.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Sports Sciences continues to explore a broad range of topics, certain areas have seen a decline in focus or frequency of publications over recent years. These waning themes may reflect shifts in research priorities or the maturation of specific fields within sports science.
  1. Traditional Strength Training:
    Research specifically focused on conventional strength training methods has decreased as newer, more diverse training modalities gain popularity and research attention.
  2. Generalized Injury Risk Assessment:
    Broader studies on injury risk without specific contextual application have diminished, likely due to a shift towards more tailored and sport-specific injury prevention strategies.
  3. Supplementation Studies:
    Investigations into general dietary supplements have waned, with a greater emphasis now placed on specific, context-driven nutritional interventions tailored to particular sports or populations.
  4. Basic Biomechanics:
    General biomechanical studies lacking practical application or relevance to elite performance have seen reduced publication, as the field shifts towards applied biomechanics in realistic sporting contexts.
  5. Overly Broad Psychological Constructs:
    Research examining generic psychological constructs without specific application to sports or athletic performance has declined, as the focus shifts to more nuanced psychological factors affecting athletes.

Similar Journals

BMC Sports Science Medicine and Rehabilitation

Elevating human performance through research and practice.
Publisher: BMCISSN: 2052-1847Frequency: 1 issue/year

BMC Sports Science Medicine and Rehabilitation is a leading open-access journal published by BMC, based in the United Kingdom, dedicated to the dissemination of high-quality research in the fields of sports science, medicine, and rehabilitation. Established in 2013, the journal has quickly gained a prominent position, achieving Q2 rankings in major categories such as Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, and Rehabilitation as of 2023. With a Scopus ranking placing it in the 66th percentile for Rehabilitation and the 62nd percentile for Physical Therapy, BMC Sports Science Medicine and Rehabilitation serves as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Its open-access format ensures that groundbreaking research is freely available, promoting knowledge exchange and fostering advancements in therapeutic practices and sports science innovations. Authors and readers are encouraged to engage with the journal's broad scope, spanning from evidence-based interventions to innovative rehabilitation strategies, all aimed at enhancing human performance and well-being.

European Journal of Sport Science

Pioneering Research for Athletic Advancement
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1746-1391Frequency: 12 issues/year

European Journal of Sport Science, published by WILEY, is a preeminent platform in the realm of sports science and medicine, with a keen focus on advanced research and interdisciplinary approaches that propel the field forward. The journal boasts impressive accolades, including a Q1 ranking across multiple categories such as Medicine (miscellaneous), Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, and Physical Therapy, reflecting its significant influence and contribution to the academic community. The 2023 Scopus rankings place it at Rank #26 in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation and Rank #37 in Orthopedics, underscoring its esteemed position within the top percentile of its peers. With a history spanning from 2001 to 2024, this scholarly journal invites contributions that highlight innovative research, clinical advancements, and comprehensive reviews pertinent to both practitioners and academics dedicated to enhancing performance and rehabilitation in sports. Although not an open-access journal, its subscription model ensures that high-quality, rigorously peer-reviewed content is disseminated, making it a cornerstone resource for researchers and professionals alike seeking to further their expertise in this dynamic field.

MEDICINA DELLO SPORT

Pioneering Research in Orthopedics and Physical Therapy
Publisher: EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICAISSN: 0025-7826Frequency: 4 issues/year

MEDICINA DELLO SPORT is a distinguished journal published by EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA, dedicated to advancing knowledge in orthopedics, sports medicine, and physical therapy. With its ISSN 0025-7826 and E-ISSN 1827-1863, this journal has been a pivotal platform for scholarly research since its inception in 1965, enhancing the understanding of various aspects of sports health and rehabilitation. Although it currently does not offer open access, it maintains a reputable stance in academic publishing, ranking in Q3 for both Orthopedics and Sports Medicine as well as Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy, and Rehabilitation, according to the latest metrics. With its inclusion in Scopus and a strong presence in important health professions, MEDICINA DELLO SPORT is crucial for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore and contribute to the evolving field of sports medicine and therapies. It is published from its headquarters located at CORSO BRAMANTE 83-85 INT JOURNALS DEPT., 10126 TURIN, ITALY, ensuring a European perspective in global health discussions.

SPORTS MEDICINE

Unleashing Potential: Where Research Meets Athletic Excellence
Publisher: ADIS INT LTDISSN: 0112-1642Frequency: 12 issues/year

SPORTS MEDICINE, published by ADIS INT LTD, stands as a premier international journal dedicated to the advancing field of sports medicine. With a history spanning from 1984 to 2024, this journal plays a pivotal role in disseminating high-quality research essential for understanding the complexities of athletic health and performance. The journal holds an esteemed Q1 ranking in multiple categories, including Medicine (Miscellaneous), Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, and Sports Science, reflecting its significant impact and contribution to these domains. According to Scopus, it ranks #2 out of 321 in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and #2 out of 247 in Health Professions, placing it firmly in the 99th percentile. Although it does not currently offer open access options, SPORTS MEDICINE remains essential for researchers, healthcare professionals, and students eager to enhance their understanding of sports science, safety, training methodologies, and rehabilitation practices. The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the highest-quality research meets its esteemed standards, fostering knowledge that advances both academic inquiry and practical application.

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity

Advancing health through physical activity research.
Publisher: GDANSK UNIV PHYSICAL EDUCATION & SPORTISSN: 2080-1297Frequency: 4 issues/year

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity is a distinguished, peer-reviewed academic journal published by Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport in Poland. Since its inception in 2009 as an Open Access platform, the journal has provided a vital space for researchers and professionals to disseminate innovative findings in the fields of health, physical activity, and rehabilitation. With a current impact factor representative of its growing influence—ranking in the Q3 category across various related disciplines—this journal plays a crucial role in bridging research and practice. The journal's Scopus rankings indicate its relevance and visibility, particularly in health professions and education, making it an essential resource for academics, practitioners, and students invested in advancing health outcomes through physical activity. Covering a comprehensive editorial scope that converges insights from the years 2019 to 2024, the Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity continues to inspire rigorous research and discussion within its community.

Biomedical Human Kinetics

Pioneering Discoveries in Human Performance and Therapy
Publisher: SCIENDOISSN: 0043-9630Frequency: 1 issue/year

Biomedical Human Kinetics, an esteemed academic journal published by SCIENDO, focuses on the intricate intersections of human movement, rehabilitation, and the study of physical therapies. Since its transition to an open access model in 2009, this journal has become a vital platform for sharing groundbreaking research and innovative methodologies in the fields of Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, and Physical Therapy. With an ISSN of 0043-9630 and an E-ISSN of 2080-2234, it operates out of Poland, providing global access to high-quality research. The journal’s standing in 2023 is notable, ranking in the Q3 category for both Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy, and Rehabilitation, reflecting its commitment to fostering academic discourse within these important and evolving domains. Furthermore, with Scopus rankings placing it in the 36th percentile in its categories, Biomedical Human Kinetics is recognized for its contributions to the academic community. As it converges research efforts from 2016 to 2024, this journal serves as a cornerstone for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to enhancing human health and performance through informed scientific exploration.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE

Empowering Practitioners with Cutting-edge Insights
Publisher: GEORG THIEME VERLAG KGISSN: 0172-4622Frequency: 14 issues/year

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE, published by GEORG THIEME VERLAG KG, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the knowledge and practice in the fields of orthopedics, sports medicine, and rehabilitation. With a robust history since its inception in 1980 and an impressive breadth of converged research addressing contemporary issues until 2024, the journal stands as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Notably, it holds an advantageous Q2 designation in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation categories, emphasizing its significant impact within these domains. Rankings from Scopus highlight its substantial influence, with a commendable presence in percentile rankings (80th and 76th) for its respective categories. Although not an open-access journal, the valuable insights and cutting-edge research articles published herein contribute significantly to the evolution of sports medicine practices. The INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE is essential for those aiming to stay at the forefront of this dynamic field.

Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology

Enhancing Performance through Psychological Insights.
Publisher: HUMAN KINETICS PUBL INCISSN: 1932-9261Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology, published by HUMAN KINETICS PUBL INC, is a leading academic journal that delves into the intricate interfaces of psychology and sport, offering critical insights into mental performance, athlete wellbeing, and coaching strategies. With its ISSN 1932-9261 and E-ISSN 1932-927X, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in applied psychology, highlighting groundbreaking studies and innovative practices since its inception in 2007. Boasting a commendable impact factor and ranking within the Q2 category for Applied Psychology, it is recognized for fostering scholarly dialogue and advancing knowledge in areas such as sport performance enhancement, mental health in athletics, and the psychological aspects of physical training. While currently not open access, it remains a crucial publication for those seeking to elevate their understanding of the psychological dynamics at play in sports contexts. For those looking to stay abreast of the latest research trends in this evolving field, the Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology is an indispensable addition to any academic library.

Acta Kinesiologica

Advancing knowledge in kinesiology and health sciences.
Publisher: DRUSTVO PEDAGOGA TJELESNE & ZDRAVSTVENE KULTUREISSN: 1840-2976Frequency: 2 issues/year

Acta Kinesiologica is a distinguished journal dedicated to advancing the fields of kinesiology and health sciences. Published by the DRUSTVO PEDAGOGA TJELESNE & ZDRAVSTVENE KULTURE, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students to disseminate and engage with innovative findings in physical education, exercise science, and health promotion. With the ISSN 1840-2976 and E-ISSN 1840-3700, Acta Kinesiologica highlights contemporary research methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches that aim to enhance human movement and well-being. Although currently not an open-access journal, it is recognized for its commitment to quality and scholarly excellence. Researchers from around the globe benefit from its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures that only the most relevant and impactful studies are published. As the journal continues to evolve, it remains an essential resource for those seeking to expand their knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community in kinesiology and related disciplines.

Journal of Human Kinetics

Championing excellence in sports therapy and rehabilitation.
Publisher: TERMEDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE LTDISSN: 1640-5544Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Human Kinetics, with its ISSN 1640-5544 and E-ISSN 1899-7562, is a leading open-access journal published by TERMEDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE LTD in Poland since 2008. This journal serves as a premier platform for the dissemination of innovative research and insights in the fields of Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, as well as Physiology and Sports Science. With a distinguished Q1 ranking in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation and Q2 rankings in both Physiology and Sports Science for 2023, it holds a reputable position in scholarly communication, attracting high-quality contributions from researchers and professionals worldwide. The journal, open to a global audience, allows unrestricted access to its content, ensuring that critical advancements in human kinetics reach practitioners and academics alike. The sustained growth of its impact reflects the journal's commitment to fostering knowledge and promoting collaboration within these vital fields, highlighting its importance as a resource for students and professionals aiming to stay at the forefront of research and practice.