Why Researchers Choose Journal of Sports Sciences for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Sports Sciences stands as a cornerstone in the field of sports science, offering a platform for groundbreaking research that advances understanding in exercise physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and interdisciplinary sports studies. Established in 1979 by Taylor & Francis, this esteemed publication has evolved into a vital resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to disseminate high-quality findings. With a focus on empirical and theoretical contributions, it bridges laboratory discoveries with real-world applications in athletic performance, health promotion, and leisure activities.
Researchers are drawn to the Journal of Sports Sciences for its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures only the most robust studies see publication. The journal's scope encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, from motor control and talent development to injury prevention and sports nutrition, making it ideal for interdisciplinary work. Its global readership, including over 5,000 institutions worldwide, amplifies the reach of published articles, enhancing citation potential and career advancement for authors.
Key to its appeal is the journal's commitment to open science practices, including data sharing and transparent methodologies. Whether exploring the physiological demands of elite sports or the societal impacts of recreational activities, contributors find a supportive environment that values innovation. The hybrid publication model allows flexibility, with options for traditional subscription access or open access to maximize visibility.
For those navigating academic careers, publishing here signals expertise and dedication. It supports early-career researchers through mentorship opportunities and themed issues on emerging topics like technology in sports. As sports science intersects with public health and education, the journal's influence extends beyond academia, informing training programs and policy decisions.
To elevate your research profile, consider submitting to the Journal of Sports Sciences today. Explore sports science academic jobs to connect with opportunities that align with your expertise.
Overview & History
The Journal of Sports Sciences was founded in 1979 to address the growing need for a dedicated outlet in the burgeoning field of sports research. Published by Taylor & Francis, a renowned academic publisher based in the United Kingdom, it has chronicled the evolution of sports science from its physiological roots to a multidisciplinary domain. Over four decades, it has published thousands of articles, fostering advancements in areas like performance optimization and athlete welfare.
Initially focused on elite sports, the journal expanded to include leisure and recreational contexts, reflecting broader societal interests in physical activity. Key milestones include special issues on Olympic research and the integration of digital tools in analysis. Today, it maintains a quarterly publication schedule, with issues featuring original research, reviews, and commentaries that shape the discipline.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of Sports Sciences covers a wide array of topics within sports and exercise sciences, emphasizing empirical evidence and practical implications. It welcomes submissions on behavioral, physiological, and sociological aspects of sports, ensuring a holistic approach to human movement studies.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Sports Physiology | Studies on energy systems, adaptation, and recovery in athletic performance. |
| Biomechanics | Analysis of movement patterns, forces, and injury mechanics. |
| Sports Psychology | Exploration of motivation, mental skills, and team dynamics. |
| Motor Control | Research on coordination, learning, and skill acquisition. |
| Sports Medicine | Investigations into injury prevention, rehabilitation, and health outcomes. |
| Sociology of Sport | Examination of cultural, social, and policy influences on sports participation. |
Interdisciplinary work is encouraged, particularly linking sports to public health and education. For career insights, visit rate my professor to learn from peers in these fields.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 2.9 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 5.2 | Scopus 2023 |
| Acceptance Rate | 25% | Publisher Data |
| h-Index | 102 | Scopus |
| Average Time to First Decision | 4 weeks | ScholarOne Metrics |
These metrics underscore the journal's influence and selectivity, making it a top choice for impactful publications. Check the academic calendar for submission deadlines.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Sports Sciences is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus, facilitating citations and accessibility for global researchers. DOAJ lists it for open access content, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms self-archiving policies. Access abstracts via Scopus.
- PubMed/MEDLINE for biomedical relevance
- Web of Science for citation tracking
- Google Scholar for broad reach
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, the Journal of Sports Sciences offers both subscription-based and open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with articles behind a paywall unless funded otherwise. For open access, the Article Processing Charge (APC) is £2,950 (approximately $3,800 USD), waivable for low-income countries. Taylor & Francis supports green open access through repositories after 12 months. Details at the official journal homepage.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the ScholarOne platform, requiring original, unpublished work formatted in APA style. Manuscripts should be 5,000-8,000 words, with abstracts under 250 words. Ethical standards follow COPE guidelines, emphasizing originality and data integrity. Reviewers provide constructive feedback within 8-12 weeks. Prepare your submission by reviewing guidelines on the journal site.
- Register at ScholarOne
- Upload manuscript and supplementary files
- Declare conflicts of interest
For related opportunities, see postdoc positions in sports science.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team comprises experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief David Tod, from Liverpool John Moores University, oversees strategy with a focus on psychological aspects. Associate Editors include specialists in physiology from the University of Brighton and biomechanics from Loughborough University. The board's diversity ensures balanced, high-quality reviews, representing regions like Europe, North America, and Asia.
Why Publish in Journal of Sports Sciences?
Publishing here boosts visibility and credibility, with articles averaging 50+ citations. It supports career progression by aligning with promotion criteria in sports academia. The journal's prestige aids grant applications and collaborations. For faculty, it enhances teaching through cutting-edge content. Explore tenure-track positions in exercise physiology to advance your path.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Sports Sciences | 2.9 | Broad sports science | Taylor & Francis |
| Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise | 5.4 | Clinical applications | ACSM |
| International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance | 3.7 | Performance metrics | Human Kinetics |
| Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports | 4.5 | Multidisciplinary | Wiley |
| Sports Medicine | 11.9 | Reviews and meta-analyses | Springer |
This comparison highlights the Journal of Sports Sciences' balanced scope and accessibility compared to more specialized peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with the journal's scope and emphasize novelty. Use clear visuals and robust statistics. Engage with recent issues for trends. Seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues. Track progress via ScholarOne. For broader career support, browse PhD programs in sports psychology or faculty positions in biomechanics.