From policy to practice: editorial leadership in the age of AI-assisted science

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping scientific publishing, increasing efficiency while challenging research integrity. Exercise science journals are adapting to this shift through evolving editorial policies and authorship guidelines. While many journals and publishers have artificial intelligence (AI) policies regarding authorship and disclosure of use, there are inconsistencies in their scope and application. In this paper, challenges related to GenAI use including overreliance on outputs, data privacy concerns, and misinformation are addressed in addition to practical recommendations for responsible integration. Editorial leaders must ensure that GenAI enhances rather than replaces human judgment through clear disclosure, rigorous peer review, and continuous policy refinement. Maintaining transparency, accountability, and critical oversight will be essential for safeguarding the credibility and trustworthiness of scholarly communication in the age of AI-assisted science.