Keywords

scientific incubator, sports industry, innovation platform.

Abstract

Introduction. The modern sports industry is developing rapidly due to the introduction of advanced technologies and scientifically based approaches. A crucial role in this process is played by the creation of specialized centers – scientific incubators – aimed at conducting fundamental and applied research, developing unique solutions, and creating an environment that promotes the accelerated development of sports.

Objective of the study is to integrate academic science, practical experience of specialists, and the potential of high-tech developments to solve specific problems in the field of physical education and sports.

Methodology and organization of the study. The study is based on competence-based, systemic, activity-based, and integrative approaches. Based on these, the directions and forms of a scientific incubator within the structure of a university of physical education and sports were identified, which provide infrastructure, access to equipment, expertise, and funding for young scientists and entrepreneurs interested in developing products and services for the sports industry. The incubator brings together the efforts of scientists from various specialties – physiologists, psychologists, engineers, medical professionals, economists, and managers – providing the necessary synergy for a comprehensive approach to solving the problems of modern sports.

Results of the study and their discussion. For the successful functioning of the incubation project, the following blocks were identified and intermediate results were determined:

Biological aspects of physical activity and recovery of the athlete's body: comprehensive methods for athlete recovery after heavy loads have been developed, reducing the frequency of muscle injuries by 18%, and improving the diagnosis of hypoxia in athletes by 25%.

Psychological preparation and motivation of athletes: a psychological methodology has been substantiated, which increased athletes' confidence at the start of competitions by 22% and reduced the number of cases of disorientation under stress by 20%.

Next-generation sports technologies and materials: a new material for sports footwear has been created, which reduced the reaction time of the legs to load by 10% and improved the shock-absorbing capacity of the sole by 15%.

Analysis of training effectiveness and load optimization: a new technology for analyzing training load has been developed, reducing the risk of overtraining by 15% and increasing the overall performance of athletes by 12%.

Economic support for the sustainable development of sports infrastructure: a financial management program has been implemented, ensuring savings of budget funds for sports schools of up to 15% and increasing the profitability of infrastructure facilities by 18%.

Conclusion. The incubation project was tested in the Chelyabinsk Region from January 2025 to February 2026. The activities of the scientific incubator have made it possible to significantly strengthen the scientific foundations of the sports industry, reduce costs, and increase the efficiency of training highly qualified athletes.

References

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