Publication trends on physical activity, sports, and working memory: A bibliometric analysis

Year 2025, Volume: 13 Issue: 4, 279 - 286, 30.12.2025

Turan Başkonuş , Abdulsamet Korkmaz

https://izlik.org/JA26UE55XC

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of academic publications on physical activity, sports, and working memory published between 2002 and 2025 in the Web of Science database. Using the search terms “Sports” OR “Physical activity” AND “Working memory,” a total of 5.966 records were identified, and all publications were included in the analysis without applying any exclusion criteria. The study examined annual publication trends, country- and institution-based productivity, disciplinary distribution, publication types, and interdisciplinary collaboration networks. The findings indicate a marked increase in scientific output beginning in 2010, along with a growing interest in the cognitive and neurobiological mechanisms underlying the relationship between physical activity and working memory. The strong representation of neuroscience, sport sciences, and psychology suggests an increasing integration of biological, behavioral, and performance-oriented perspectives. The results further demonstrate a rise in the use of advanced methodological tools, including neuroimaging techniques, wearable technologies, and data-driven analytical approaches, which has contributed to the diversification of research designs and the strengthening of interdisciplinary collaboration. These trends enhance the potential of physical activity research to inform theoretical models of cognitive processes while also offering valuable opportunities for applied fields such as education, rehabilitation, and athletic performance. Overall, the study provides a structural overview of the current research landscape and emphasizes the necessity of reinforcing multidisciplinary approaches within sport sciences. Promoting collaboration across related disciplines may support the development of more targeted and evidence-based physical activity interventions.

Keywords

Physical Activity , Sports , Working Memory , Bibliometric Analysis

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