Editorial: New ideas in Performance Science

This Research Topic was launched to serve as a compendium of forward-looking contributions from basic and applied research, outlining recent developments, novel ideas, and directions within the fast-growing field of Performance Science. This interdisciplinary research field encompasses topics and approaches from diverse domains, and provides insights into fundamental skills, psychological and physiological mechanisms, and outcomes of performance activities and experiences (e.g., Cotterill, 2017; Mugford & Cremades, 2018; Murphy, 2012). Scientific advances in Performance Science foster performance by enabling the development of innovative interventions tailored towards aspects of education, training, health, and well-being across domains of human performance (e.g., Bégel, Demos, & Palmer, 2024; Sevdalis & Wöllner, 2016; Williamon, 2004). The 17 contributions comprise: 13 Original Research articles, two Opinion articles, one Hypothesis and Theory article, and one Review article. Collectively, these articles showcase the breadth and depth of Performance Science, by providing insights into human performance across a broad spectrum of activities and contexts. The intersection of scientific disciplines (e.g., psychology, cognitive science, human movement science, musicology, anthropology, medicine), performance domains (e.g., sport, music, dance, education), and scientific methodologies (e.g., neurophysiological, psychophysical, behavioral) pursues evidence-based knowledge with relevance for scientists and practitioners alike. The disparate nature of these component disciplines and the widespread applications in contexts far beyond academia make Performance Science a radically interdisciplinary area of human knowledge (e.g., Collins, Abbott, & Richards, 2011; Danielsen, Paulsrud, & Hansen, 2023; Tod & Eubank, 2020).