This pioneering edited volume seeks to consolidate and advance emerging interdisciplinary scholarship examining the rich cultural tapestry of BMX. While research on individualised lifestyle sports like skateboarding and surfing has proliferated in recent years, BMX cultures and communities remain underexplored academic territory ripe for rigorous investigation.
The editors invite proposals from scholars across the social sciences, humanities, and interdisciplinary fields — including but not limited to sociology, anthropology, geography, urban studies, media studies, sport studies, design, architecture, education, psychology, and philosophy. We welcome empirical, theoretical, and methodological contributions that critically analyse BMX through novel lenses and perspectives.
The editors, BMX riders and academics from three different fields of study, are particularly interested in research representing the diversity of global BMX cultures. Proposals from scholars at all career stages are encouraged, especially from historically underrepresented groups. Our aim is to curate an inclusive volume that captures the vibrancy and complexities of BMX cultures.
Topics relating to cultural dimensions may include but are not limited to:
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- Material cultures, spatial practices, and urban landscapes of BMX
- Organisational structures, DIY ethics, and alternative economies
- Professionalisation, mediatisation, and the “Olympification” of BMX
- Gender, masculinity, inclusion, and emerging identities
- Content creation, social media, and digital cultures
- Physical and psychological well-being, risk, and bodily techniques
- Industry, consumption, and lifestyle branding
- Exclusionary practices, localism, and territorial/group dynamics
- Applications in pedagogy, coaching, and experiential learning
- Methodological challenges and innovations in BMX research
- Vernacular terminology, slang, and linguistic anthropology
- Philosophical dimensions of style, creativity, and expressivity
- Intersections of class, gender, race, ethnicity, and youth culture
- Mental health, Wellbeing, Belonging
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Please submit a 300-word abstract detailing your proposed chapter and brief biographical statement using this Google form by January 21 2025.
We look forward to reading your proposal!
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- Dr Dave Camilleri, The University of Melbourne, david.camilleri@unimelb.edu.au
- Dr Liam Healy, University of Sheffield, Liam.Healy@sheffield.ac.uk
- Dr Roth Smith III, University of Tennessee, wsmit103@utk.edu
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