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The Current Landscape and Emerging Trends in the Transition of Retired Chinese Athletes to University Physical Education Instructors: A Visual Analysis Based on CiteSpace

Author(s)

Aoen Wen, Yangfei Wu*

Affiliation(s)

Guangzhou College of Applied Science and Technology, Zhaoqing, Guangdong, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

Transitioning into roles as physical education instructors in higher education institutions represents one of the most sought-after career pathways for retired athletes in China. A thorough examination of the extant research in this domain facilitates a systematic understanding of its knowledge architecture and developmental trajectory, thereby advancing the systematic optimization and sustainable evolution of athlete transition mechanisms. The study reveals that predominant research themes encompass transitional challenges, strategic approaches to transition, post-transition career development, role adaptation, and psychological adjustment. There exists a strong correlation between research timelines, publication volume, and the implementation cycles of relevant strategy. Geographically, research is predominantly concentrated in the economically advanced eastern coastal and central regions, with markedly fewer studies focusing on the western areas. The focus of research is largely skewed towards popular sports such as football and martial arts, while niche or less mainstream sports receive scant attention. Three major imbalances characterize the research perspectives: firstly, a pronounced regional disparity in research distribution; secondly, an uneven focus on sports disciplines, with most studies confined to descriptive analyses and strategy recommendations, particularly lacking in-depth exploration of the psychological mechanisms underpinning the transition process; thirdly, a methodological imbalance favoring qualitative over quantitative research. Recommendations include: (1) enhancing cross-regional collaboration and interdisciplinary integration; (2) deepening cooperation between diverse sports disciplines and higher education institutions; (3) establishing a comprehensive research framework and quantitative standards for athlete transition studies; and (4) strengthening research on pre-transition preparation and long-term career development.

Keywords

Retired Athletes; Transition; University Physical Education Instructors; Current Landscape; Emerging Trends

References

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