Why Researchers Choose Psychology of Sport and Exercise for High-Impact Publications

Psychology of Sport and Exercise serves as a leading international forum for advancing knowledge in the psychological dimensions of sport, exercise, and physical activity. Established in 2000 by Elsevier BV, this journal has grown into a cornerstone publication for scholars exploring how mental processes influence performance, motivation, and well-being in athletic and recreational contexts. Researchers are drawn to its rigorous peer-review process, which ensures high-quality, impactful contributions that shape the field. The journal's commitment to interdisciplinary approaches bridges psychology with sports science, health, and education, making it ideal for studies on athlete mental health, coaching efficacy, and exercise adherence.

With a focus on empirical research, theoretical advancements, and applied interventions, Psychology of Sport and Exercise publishes articles that address real-world challenges, such as enhancing performance under pressure or promoting lifelong physical activity. Its global readership, including academics, practitioners, and policymakers, amplifies the reach of published work. The journal's prestige is underscored by its inclusion in top indexing services and a solid impact factor, signaling credibility to funding bodies and hiring committees. For early-career researchers, publishing here boosts CVs and opens doors to collaborations.

Navigating the submission process is streamlined through Elsevier's online system, emphasizing originality and methodological soundness. Authors benefit from detailed feedback that refines their scholarship. As sports leisure gains prominence amid rising health awareness, this journal positions researchers at the forefront of emerging trends like digital interventions and inclusivity in sports. To maximize your publication success, align your manuscript with the journal's scope and consult recent issues for stylistic cues. Explore academic jobs in sports science to see how such publications enhance career prospects. Ready to submit? Visit the official site and start your journey toward influential research dissemination.

Overview & History

Psychology of Sport and Exercise was launched in 2000 to fill a gap in dedicated outlets for sport and exercise psychology. Published by Elsevier BV in the Netherlands, it has evolved from biannual issues to quarterly volumes, reflecting growing interest in the field. The journal's founding editors aimed to foster dialogue between basic and applied research, drawing on psychological theories to inform sports practice. Over two decades, it has published over 1,500 articles, influencing policies on athlete welfare and exercise promotion worldwide. Key milestones include special issues on topics like mental health in elite sports and the psychology of injury recovery, which have cited thousands of times.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a wide array of topics within sports leisure, emphasizing psychological aspects of physical activity. It welcomes studies on motivation, cognition, emotion, and social influences in sport and exercise settings. Disciplines include sports psychology, exercise physiology, health psychology, and motor behavior.

Key Journal Metrics

Psychology of Sport and Exercise maintains strong metrics that attest to its influence. Data from Clarivate Journal Citation Reports (2022) shows an Impact Factor of 5.3, up from previous years, indicating rising citations. Scopus CiteScore stands at 11.3 for 2023, with an h-index of 112, reflecting sustained quality.

Indexing and Abstracting

The journal is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Scopus, Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), PsycINFO, and PubMed, facilitating access for global researchers. DOAJ lists it as open-access compliant for select articles, while Sherpa/RoMEO confirms Elsevier's green open-access policy. These affiliations enhance citation potential and archival stability.

Publication Model and Fees

Psychology of Sport and Exercise operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with open-access options via Elsevier's ScienceDirect. Article Processing Charges (APCs) for gold open access are €3,220 (approximately $3,500 USD), waivable for certain regions or agreements. No fees apply for traditional subscription publication, making it accessible for funded research. Authors retain copyright under Creative Commons licenses for OA articles.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled through Editorial Manager on the official Elsevier platform. Manuscripts must follow APA style, with a 8,000-word limit excluding references. Prepare an abstract , keywords, and highlights. Ethical standards require IRB approval for human studies. Reviewers assess novelty, rigor, and relevance; revisions are common. Track status online and expect decisions within months. For detailed guidelines, consult the journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial team comprises experts from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief Nikos Ntoumanis (University of Southern Queensland, Australia) oversees strategy, supported by associate editors in Europe, North America, and Asia. Board members include specialists in youth sport psychology and exercise oncology, ensuring diverse perspectives. Their affiliations with bodies like the International Society of Sport Psychology add authority.

Why Publish in Psychology of Sport and Exercise?

Publishing here offers visibility in a niche yet expanding field, with articles averaging 50+ citations. It supports career advancement, as evidenced by alumni in tenure-track positions. The journal's focus on practical implications aids translation to coaching and therapy. Compared to broader psychology outlets, it provides targeted exposure to sports scholars. Integrate findings with Rate My Professor resources for pedagogical impact.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Psychology of Sport and Exercise distinguishes itself through its psychological emphasis amid sports science peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, ensure your research addresses gaps identified in recent reviews. Use mixed methods for robustness and highlight theoretical contributions. Avoid common pitfalls like insufficient sample sizes. Collaborate internationally for broader appeal. Post-submission, promote via academic networks and check academic calendar for deadlines. Leverage higher ed jobs listings to align with institutional priorities.