Dataset: Thematic Trends and Co-authorship Patterns in Physical Activity, Sport and Physical Education Sciences Publications in Colombia (1979-2022)

Introduction: Scientific dissemination in journals is crucial for visibility and recognition in Sciences of Physical Activity, Sport and Physical Education (CAFDEF).Objective: To investigate the thematic trends and patterns of co-authorship in Colombian CAFDEF journal publications from 1979 to 2022.Methods: A descriptive bibliometric study was conducted, analyzing 1,775 articles from 10 indexed and non-indexed journals. Statistical analyses were used to categorize and evaluate thematic trends and patterns of co-authorship.Results: There is a significant increase in publications as new journals emerge. An increase in the collaboration of international authors was observed, although national authors predominate in the publications. In terms of sex, there was a predominance of publications with male researchers and a variability in the number of authors per article, being higher in publications with authors of both sexes. The most recurrent thematic categories were: i) Education, Physical Education, Curriculum and Didactics; ii) Sociocultural Perspectives of Physical Activity, Sport and Physical Education; iii) Physical Fitness and Health Assessment; and iv) Recreation, Leisure and Play.Conclusions: This study reveals a significant evolution in CADEF research topics in Colombia, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and adaptation to international standards. Areas of opportunity are identified to strengthen the quality and sustainability of scientific publications in the national context.