Behind-the-scenes insights from undertaking intersectional research in the field of sport and physical activity

Undertaking intersectional research in sport and physical activity is necessarily complex. This paper offers a collaborative self-study (Ovens & Fletcher, Citation2014) of the authors' collective fieldwork experiences of conducting intersectional research at the post-graduate/early career research (ECR) stage in sport and physical activity. The authors' reflections are grounded in personal and theoretical insights, consisting of data from multiple sources including: (1) authors' field notes and reflective journal entries; and (2) collaborative meetings between authors' who acted as critical friends during these discussions. Data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis method (Braun & Clarke, Citation2024). The paper presents a creative nonfiction account that reflects the methodological complexities encountered by the authors' during their intersectional research. Three prominent themes were generated from data analysis: (1) research reality; (2) space and place; and (3) emotion. We conclude by offering some recommendations and opportunities for future intersectional research in sport and physical activity.

https://doi.org/10.1080/13573322.2025.2486693