Abstract
IntroductionThe current literature about the body composition of elite football referees is scarce and almost non-existent. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess and track the percentage of body fat (%BF) of elite Spanish football referees and assistant referees across an entire season. Material and methodsTwo hundred and twenty-eight referees and assistant referees (mean age 32.5±5.1y), refereeing in Spanish First category (La Liga), Second category, and Second-B category, took part in this study. A bioelectrical impedance analyser (TANITA BC 418-MA) was used to evaluate %BF. A total of four-time-points for 1st category referees and three for all other groups were performed throughout the season. ResultsAnalysing by category and role, 1st category assistants had the highest %BF in all assessments (p<0.05). Small variations (around 1%) in %BF within groups were observed across the competitive season. ConclusionThe %BF in elite Spanish referees remains constant, analysing by category, role and age, throughout a competitive season. All groups in this study reported healthy %BF values, between 8 and 14%, which might directly help to achieve the high standards required when refereeing and to improve the level of refereeing in the Spanish leagues.
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