A case for reflexivity in exercise science and sports medicine research

• Published in: Journal of Physical Education and Sport Vol. 20; no. 3; pp. 1505 - 1512
• Main Author: Hill, Lee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Pitesti Universitatea din Pitesti 01.05.2020
• Subjects: Anatomy & physiology; Behavior; Biomechanics; Bourdieu, Pierre (1930-2002); Exercise physiology; Genetics; Identity; Injuries; Interdisciplinary aspects; Intersectionality; Knowledge; Medicine; Methods; Nutrition; Objectivity; Physical sciences; Physiology; Power; Questioning; Reflexivity; Research methodology; Researcher subject relations; Sociology; Sports; Sports medicine; Subjectivity; Swimming
• ISSN: 2247-8051; 2247-806X
• DOI: 10.7752/jpes.2020.03207

Background: Exercise Science and Sports Medicine is field that that is primarily comprised of interdisciplinary researchincluding but is not limited to; biomechanics, exercise physiology, nutrition, anatomy, genetics, and psychology. Like most other physical sciences, it often takes a positivist approach which seeks to limit the subjectivity of the researcher in the research process. However, it is not possible to separate subjectivity from objectivity, instead they serve to inform each other. Framework: I contend that utilising reflexivity will not only deepen our understanding of the research question at hand but will also assist us in recognising our own subjectivity and how it can influence the research outcome.I will draw on the work of Bourdieu and Wacquant in "An Invitation to Reflexive Sociology" who made efforts to consciously mix sources, theories and methodologies whilst simultaneously embracing intersectionality as a method to study sport. Themes: Several themes emerged from the reflexive process; 1) recognition of one's own subjectivity, 2) Identity and 3) power relations between supervisors, research participants and the institution.Conclusion: Implementing aspects of reflexivity and reflexive sociology will enable us to recognise and challenge our own assumptions about our research, research methodology and ultimately ourselves. It is only through this recognition that we can more deeply understand the complex nature of research and our role in it.These critical reflections aim to build on a growing body of knowledge that aims to address the gap in understanding the formation of academic identity and agency embedded in power structures that inform our decision processes, interactions and ultimately knowledge production.