Referees have a job to ensure a safe and fair playing environment. The purpose of this study was to quantify on-ice intensities (heart rate) and on-ice movements (forward or backwards skating or stationary) of referees during ice hockey games. 15 HC referees had their heart rates monitored and skating video taped throughout a 60 minute game. A treadmill run test was used to identify their peak heart rates and VO2. The dominant on-ice activity was forward skating followed by stationary then backwards skating. On average referees worked at 80% of their peak heart rate. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found between period average heart rates and peak heart rates. The results suggest that referees generally work at an aerobic intensity with numerous anaerobic bursts interspersed throughout play. Knowledge about the intensity, frequency and amount of skating that occurs in each direction will help with the development of the athletic ability of referees.

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