Peer Review Policy

Duties of Reviewers
The peer review process is a cornerstone of editorial decision-making at the International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Holistic Development (IJPESHD). Reviewers play a critical role in ensuring the scientific quality, academic integrity, and practical relevance of submitted manuscripts. By offering informed and constructive evaluations, reviewers assist the editorial team in making well-founded publication decisions and help authors improve their work—particularly in the context of physical education, sports science, and holistic health.

IJPESHD encourages scholars in relevant fields to actively engage in peer review as a professional responsibility to support the growth and rigor of global research in physical education and wellness.

Timeliness
Reviewers are expected to complete evaluations within the specified review period. If a reviewer feels unqualified to assess a particular manuscript—due to limited subject expertise (e.g., specific sports training methods, health interventions, or pedagogical models)—or anticipates delays, they should promptly notify the editorial office and decline the review. This allows the journal to assign alternate reviewers in a timely manner and avoid unnecessary delays in the editorial process.

Confidentiality
Manuscripts assigned for review must be treated with strict confidentiality. Reviewers should not share, discuss, or disclose manuscript content with others without prior written permission from the Editor-in-Chief. This confidentiality protects the integrity of the review process, especially in sensitive or unpublished work related to physical education research or health interventions.

Objectivity and Constructive Feedback
Reviews must be conducted impartially and focus strictly on the scientific content of the manuscript, not the identity or affiliations of the authors. Feedback should be clear, evidence-based, and aimed at enhancing the quality of the work. Reviewers should evaluate the manuscript's originality, methodology, significance, and clarity—particularly in relation to education, sports, and wellness outcomes. Personal remarks or unprofessional language are strictly prohibited.

Acknowledgment of Sources
Reviewers are encouraged to point out any key references, foundational studies, or recent research that the authors may have overlooked—especially work relevant to physical education methods, sports development, public health, or mental wellness. If a reviewer identifies any substantial overlap or similarity between the manuscript and existing published or unpublished work, they should inform the editors immediately.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest
Reviewers must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could affect their objectivity—whether personal, professional, institutional, or financial. If such a conflict exists, the reviewer should inform the editorial team and decline the invitation. This ensures a fair and unbiased evaluation process.

Additionally, reviewers must not use or share any data, concepts, or insights from an unpublished manuscript for their own research without the explicit written consent of the authors. All information acquired during the review process must be treated as privileged and kept confidential, regardless of whether the reviewer ultimately completes the review.

By adhering to these principles, the International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Holistic Development ensures a transparent, rigorous, and ethical peer review process that supports the advancement of high-quality research in the interconnected fields of physical education, sports sciences, and holistic development.