How do gender and competition level influence the physical demands in worst-case scenarios of elite football referees?

This study examined the physical demands experienced by elite Spanish football referees during matches, focusing on the most intense moments known as Worst-Case Scenarios (WCS). Data from over 2,000 matches involving male and female referees across different competition levels revealed that male ref...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Martínez Torremocha, Gemma, Alonso Callejo, Antonio, Sánchez Sánchez, Javier, García Unanue, Jorge Fernando, Gallardo Guerrero, Leonor, Martín Sánchez, María Luisa, Serrano Luengo, Carlos, Felipe Hernández, José Luis
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universidad Europea (UEM)
Repositorio:ABACUS. Repositorio de Producción Científica
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:abacus.universidadeuropea.com:11268/16081
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/11268/16081
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Competencia deportiva
Arbitraje
Prevención de accidentes
Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
Descripción
Sumario:This study examined the physical demands experienced by elite Spanish football referees during matches, focusing on the most intense moments known as Worst-Case Scenarios (WCS). Data from over 2,000 matches involving male and female referees across different competition levels revealed that male referees generally face higher physical loads, especially during short bursts of activity. The most demanding conditions for male referees occurred in the Second Division and Champions League, while female referees experienced peak demands in national competitions like the Queen’s Cup. Both groups showed increased intensity during shorter time frames, emphasizing the importance of preparing for brief, high-intensity efforts. The findings suggest that training and recovery programs should be tailored to the specific demands of each competition and gender to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.