American Journal of Sports Medicine – Athletics Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose American Journal of Sports Medicine for High-Impact Publications

The American Journal of Sports Medicine stands as a cornerstone in the field of athletics and sports medicine research. Established as the official publication of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, it has been a trusted resource since 1972. Researchers turn to this journal for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to advancing knowledge in injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. With a focus on clinical and basic science studies, it bridges the gap between laboratory findings and practical applications in athletic performance.

Publishing in the American Journal of Sports Medicine elevates a researcher's profile due to its global readership and influence. The journal covers a wide array of topics, from biomechanical analyses to epidemiological studies on sports injuries. Its emphasis on evidence-based medicine ensures that articles contribute meaningfully to clinical practice. For academics in athletics, submitting here means reaching orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and sports scientists worldwide.

The journal's reputation is built on decades of high-quality scholarship. It features original research, systematic reviews, and technical notes that inform guidelines for athlete care. Researchers appreciate the journal's accessibility through online platforms, allowing rapid dissemination of findings. Whether exploring ACL reconstruction techniques or concussion protocols, contributors find a platform that values innovation and reproducibility.

For those in higher education, aligning with this journal can enhance career trajectories. It supports interdisciplinary work, integrating insights from physiology, psychology, and engineering. As athletics evolves with new training methods and technologies, the American Journal of Sports Medicine remains at the forefront, guiding future directions in the field.

To explore opportunities in academic athletics, consider browsing sports medicine faculty positions or checking the academic calendar for key deadlines.

Overview & History

The American Journal of Sports Medicine was founded in 1972 by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine to address the growing need for specialized literature in sports-related injuries. Initially published bimonthly, it has expanded to monthly issues, reflecting the field's rapid growth. Over the years, it has chronicled pivotal advancements, such as the evolution of arthroscopic surgery and evidence-based protocols for return-to-play decisions.

Under SAGE Publications, the journal maintains editorial independence while benefiting from robust distribution networks. Its history includes landmark studies on topics like overuse injuries in youth athletes and the biomechanics of contact sports. Today, it serves as a vital archive for researchers tracing the development of sports medicine practices.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad spectrum within athletics and sports medicine, prioritizing studies with direct implications for clinical care and performance optimization.

DisciplineDescription
OrthopedicsFocus on surgical and non-surgical treatments for sports injuries, including ligament repairs and joint stability.
RehabilitationProtocols for recovery, physical therapy techniques, and functional outcomes in athletes.
BiomechanicsAnalysis of movement patterns, equipment design, and injury risk factors.
EpidemiologyPopulation-based studies on injury incidence, prevention strategies, and health disparities in sports.
Performance EnhancementResearch on training regimens, nutrition, and psychological factors influencing athletic output.

Key Journal Metrics

MetricValueSource
Impact Factor7.0Clarivate JCR 2022
5-Year Impact Factor7.8Clarivate JCR 2022
CiteScore11.2Scopus 2022
h-Index258Scopus
Acceptance RateNot publicly disclosedN/A

Indexing and Abstracting

The American Journal of Sports Medicine is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide visibility. It appears in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. These listings facilitate citations and accessibility for global researchers. Additionally, it is abstracted in CINAHL and SPORTDiscus, catering to nursing and sports science communities. For full coverage, visit the official journal homepage.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, it offers both subscription-based and open access options. Authors can publish traditionally with no fees or choose gold open access for an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately $3,500 USD, covering peer review and production. SAGE's policies align with Plan S compliance. No page charges apply for standard articles. Details are available via Sherpa/RoMEO.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through SAGE's online portal, ScholarOne Manuscripts. Authors must adhere to CONSORT or STROBE guidelines for reporting. Manuscripts should be original, with ethical approvals for human or animal studies. The process involves initial screening, peer review (typically 4-6 weeks), and revisions. Prepare files in Word or LaTeX, including abstracts under 250 words. For tips, see researcher resources.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board comprises experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief Bruce D. Browner, MD, brings decades of orthopedic experience. Members include specialists from Mayo Clinic and University of Pittsburgh, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their expertise spans clinical trials to basic science, guiding the journal's direction.

Why Publish in American Journal of Sports Medicine?

Publishing here provides unmatched exposure in athletics research. With a high impact factor, articles garner citations that boost academic profiles. The journal's prestige aids in grant applications and promotions. Its focus on translational research appeals to clinicians and scientists alike. Contributors benefit from SAGE's marketing, reaching over 1 million annual downloads.

Comparison with Similar Journals

JournalImpact FactorFocusPublisher
American Journal of Sports Medicine7.0Sports injuries and orthopedicsSAGE
British Journal of Sports Medicine18.5Multidisciplinary sports scienceBMJ
Journal of Orthopaedic Research3.1Basic orthopedic scienceWiley
Sports Medicine11.9Exercise physiology and performanceSpringer
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports4.7Training and elite sportsWiley

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

Internal links integrated: Total 12, including /rate-my-professor, /academic-calendar, /higher-ed-jobs/sports-medicine-faculty-positions, /academic-jobs/researcher-resources, /higher-ed-jobs/athletics-department-roles.

Frequently Asked Questions about American Journal of Sports Medicine

📈What is the current impact factor of American Journal of Sports Medicine? 📈

The 2022 impact factor is 7.0, according to Clarivate JCR, reflecting its influence in athletics research. For career advancement, explore sports medicine faculty positions.

📊What is the acceptance rate for submissions? 📊

The acceptance rate is not publicly disclosed. Focus on high-quality work aligned with the journal's scope. Check the academic calendar for submission timelines.

💰What is the APC or open access policy? 💰

As a hybrid journal, APC is around $3,500 for gold OA. Subscription model has no fees. Review policies on Sherpa/RoMEO. See researcher resources for funding tips.

⏱️How long is the average review time? ⏱️

Peer review typically takes 4-6 weeks. Initial decisions are prompt. Plan accordingly using the academic calendar.

🔗Where is the submission portal located? 🔗

Use SAGE's ScholarOne Manuscripts portal via the official journal homepage. Prepare manuscripts per guidelines. Link to example jobs for related opportunities.

📚Which databases index the journal? 📚

Indexed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. This boosts visibility. Visit Scopus for metrics. Connect with peers via Rate My Professor.

👨‍⚕️Who is the Editor-in-Chief? 👨‍⚕️

Bruce D. Browner, MD, leads the editorial team with expertise in orthopedics. Board highlights are on the site. For networking, see athletics department roles.

🚀How does publishing here benefit careers? 🚀

High impact enhances CVs for tenure and grants. Prestige in athletics fields. Explore researcher resources for more.

⚖️How does it compare to peer journals? ⚖️

Higher than Journal of Orthopaedic Research (3.1) but below British Journal of Sports Medicine (18.5). Unique clinical focus. Compare via Rate My Professor reviews.