Validity and reliability of the physiological and perceptual responses elicited during a novel treadmill-based Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS)

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This study explored the validity and reliability of the physiological and perceptual responses elicited during a novel treadmill-based Soccer Referee Simulation (SRS). Methods Following the collection of baseline measures and habituation procedures, eight sub-elite soccer referees completed a single trial of the SRS whereby measures of heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (V̇O2), blood lactate concentrations ([La−]b), and differential ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were obtained. Referees’ HR responses were also monitored during a series of competitive matches (5 match observations per referee). For the reliability aspect of the investigation, eight well-trained males with soccer playing experience and a comparable physiological profile were initially habituated, and thereafter completed three separate trials of the SRS during which the reliability of the selected outcome variables were ascertained. Trials were separated by 3–7 days and performed under standardised conditions. Results No differences were evidenced between the SRS and match play in relation to measures of mean HR (P = 0.444; ES = 0.29), peak HR (P = 0.074; ES = 0.74), or HR-based training impulse (P = 0.498; ES = 0.25). Additionally, no systematic differences were detected between reliability trials for any of the measured outcome variables (P ≥ 0.293), whilst good levels of reliability were observed for measures of mean HR (ICC = 0.94; CV = 3.1%), peak HR (ICC = 0.93; CV = 2.2%), HR-based training impulse (ICC = 0.95; CV = 10.0%), mean V̇O2 (ICC = 0.95; CV = 2.6%); [La−]b (ICC ≥ 0.89; CV ≤ 11.5%), and differential RPE (ICC ≥ 0.94; CV ≤ 15.1%). Conclusion The SRS represents a valid and reliable protocol that closely replicates the physiological and decision-making demands of soccer refereeing.