The Role of AI-based Smart Systems in Developing a Health and Sports Decision-Support System

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the role of AI-based smart systems in developing a health-and-sports decision-support system within sports organizations by examining the level of use of these systems and their role in improving the quality of health and sports decision-making, enhancing the integration between health and training aspects, and supporting health prevention and managing the risk of sports injuries. A descriptive survey approach was used due to its suitability for the study’s nature and objectives. The study population consisted of health and sports professionals within sports organizations, including sports coaches, sports medicine specialists, physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists, athletes, and administrators at sports organizations and clubs. The study sample consisted of 67 individuals selected through purposive sampling due to their direct connection to the field of study and their experience in using smart systems or participating in health and sports decision-making. To achieve the study’s objectives, the researcher developed a questionnaire consisting of five main themes: the current state of smart system usage; their role in improving the quality of health-and-sports decision-making; the integration of health and training aspects; support for health prevention and injury risk management; and challenges and barriers. The validity and reliability of the instrument were verified using appropriate scientific methods, and the data were analyzed using SPSS software to calculate means, standard deviations, and relative importance. The study results showed that the level of use of smart systems in the health and sports sector was moderate. These systems also moderately contribute to improving the quality of health and sports-related decision-making, enhancing the integration of health and training aspects, and supporting health prevention and management of sports injury risks. The results also revealed that data privacy concerns, a shortage of qualified personnel, weak technical infrastructure, and high costs are the most significant challenges facing the use of smart systems. In light of these findings, the study recommended promoting the use of smart systems within sports organizations, developing technical infrastructure, training specialized personnel, enhancing the integration of health and training aspects, establishing clear policies to protect athletes’ data, and conducting further studies on AI applications in health–sports.