[hlnx1]

Referees are often forgotten in football science, yet they run a lot during a match and must keep up with play while making decisions.

• Top-level referees can cover distances comparable to some players, with many short high-intensity runs
• Unlike players, they cannot be substituted and must stay well positioned for 90 minutes plus
• Fatigue may affect decision quality as well as positioning, so fitness matters for accuracy
• Many associations use fitness tests with interval runs and repeated sprints

Read more: referee physiology and fitness demands and referee performance science.

Any referees here? How do you structure your training during the season?

[hlnx1]

A practical weekly template many referees could adapt: one interval session (for example 4-6 x 3-4 minutes hard with equal rest), one repeated sprint or speed session, one easy aerobic run, and one short strength session. The match itself is the main load at the weekend.

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