Journal of Sport and Health Science – Sports Leisure Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Journal of Sport and Health Science for High-Impact Publications

The Journal of Sport and Health Science stands as a premier open access platform dedicated to advancing knowledge in sports science, exercise physiology, and public health. Published by Elsevier on behalf of the Shanghai University of Sport, this quarterly journal has earned a reputation for rigorous peer review and high-impact publications since its inception in 2012. Researchers are drawn to its broad scope, which encompasses everything from molecular mechanisms of exercise to community-based health interventions. With an impact factor of 7.0 as reported in the 2022 Clarivate Journal Citation Reports, it ranks among the top journals in the field, offering authors exceptional visibility and citation potential.

Founded to bridge Eastern and Western perspectives on sport and health, the journal emphasizes interdisciplinary research that addresses global challenges like physical inactivity and chronic disease prevention. Its commitment to open access ensures that findings reach a worldwide audience without barriers, fostering collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and policymakers. The editorial team, led by experts from leading institutions, upholds the highest standards, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 20%. For those in sports leisure and related disciplines, publishing here not only enhances academic profiles but also contributes to practical advancements in athlete training and public wellness programs.

Key attractions include rapid publication times—averaging 4-6 months from submission to acceptance—and support for diverse article types, from original research to reviews. The journal's integration with Scopus and Web of Science indexing amplifies its reach, making it a strategic choice for early-career researchers aiming to build credentials. As sports science evolves with emerging technologies like wearable devices and AI-driven analytics, the Journal of Sport and Health Science remains at the forefront, inviting submissions that push boundaries. To explore opportunities in academia, check out higher education jobs and connect with peers.

Overview & History

The Journal of Sport and Health Science was launched in 2012 by the Shanghai University of Sport in partnership with Elsevier, aiming to promote cutting-edge research in physical activity and health outcomes. From its first issue, it has grown into a vital resource for the global sports science community, publishing over 500 articles to date. Its evolution reflects the increasing emphasis on evidence-based practices in sports training, rehabilitation, and preventive medicine. Historically, the journal has spotlighted contributions from Asian researchers while welcoming international submissions, creating a diverse repository of knowledge.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal covers a wide array of topics at the intersection of sport, exercise, and health sciences. It prioritizes studies on human performance, nutritional impacts, and sociocultural aspects of physical activity. Below is a table outlining key disciplines:

These areas align with the primary discipline of Sports Leisure, extending to leisure activities' health benefits.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics underscore the journal's influence and selectivity in sports and health research.

Indexing and Abstracting

The Journal of Sport and Health Science is indexed in major databases including Scopus, Web of Science (Emerging Sources Citation Index), PubMed Central, and DOAJ. This ensures discoverability and credibility. For full coverage, visit the official journal homepage or check Scopus for detailed analytics.

Publication Model and Fees

As an open access journal, it operates under a hybrid model with gold OA options. Article Processing Charges (APC) are $2,500 USD for OA articles, waived for certain categories. Subscriptions are available through Elsevier, but OA promotes wider dissemination. Policies align with Plan S compliance.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via the Elsevier Editorial System. Authors must follow the guide for authors on the official journal homepage, including ethical standards and formatting in Word or LaTeX. Initial checks take 1-2 weeks, followed by peer review.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board features renowned experts like Editor-in-Chief Li Li (Georgia Southern University) and associate editors from institutions such as the University of British Columbia and Peking University Sport Science College. Their expertise spans physiology, epidemiology, and coaching science, ensuring balanced oversight.

Why Publish in Journal of Sport and Health Science?

Publishing here offers global exposure, rapid review, and alignment with interdisciplinary trends. With a focus on translational research, it appeals to those impacting policy and practice. Boost your career by exploring Rate My Professor for mentorship insights.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison highlights JSHS's competitive edge in impact and scope.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

Ensure novelty, robust methodology, and clear implications. Use the journal's keywords for better matching. Track progress via the portal and consider pre-submission inquiries. For academic planning, refer to the academic calendar. Additional resources include PhD programs in sports science and sports science jobs. Stay updated with tenure-track positions and postdoc opportunities to advance your research career.