Time-motion analysis of and heart rate responses to amateur ice hockey officiating.

The physical activity of referees (n = 4) and linesmen (n = 6) was analyzed from videotapes of four varsity hockey games to determine the frequency, average duration, and total time spent in each of six activity categories. The average duration of activity was low while frequency of occurrence was high. Low intensity activities occupied 96% of total time for referees and 94% of time for linesmen. Heart rate responses were recorded every 5 seconds and synchronized to the videotapes for all referees and 5 linesmen. Heart rates were above 70% of maximum for 70% of the total ice time, which was greater than expected for the observed physical activity. Psychological stress during the course of a varsity hockey game could contribute to the high heart rate responses. It is concluded that training to increase aerobic fitness is an important aspect of ice hockey officiating to increase resistance to fatigue and aid in stress management.