"Researchers from Bielefeld University, Germany, found that fans' stress levels are a whopping 41 per cent higher on match days. A supporter's average heart rate jumped from 71 beats per minute on an average day to 79 beats per minute during an important fixture. The effect was even more pronounced for fans in the stadium, where the average heart rate was 23 per cent higher than that of those watching on television. Having a few drinks compounded the effect, with data showing that heart rates were five per cent faster among those who had consumed alcohol."
"The authors warn that these effects can come together to cause serious health problems for the most excited fans. A serious case of football fever, especially mixed with alcohol, could increase the risk of cardiac events such as arrhythmias. In their study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, the authors write: 'Our study shows that exceptional events can trigger football fever in fans, manifesting as noticeable physiological responses.'"
Fans experience substantially elevated physiological stress during major football matches, with stress levels 41 per cent higher on match days and average heart rates rising from 71 to 79 beats per minute during important fixtures. Stadium attendance is associated with a 23 per cent higher heart rate compared with watching on television. Alcohol consumption further increases heart rate by about five per cent. Elevated stress peaks at kick-off, persists throughout the game and continues afterward. Combined intense excitement and alcohol can increase the risk of cardiac events such as arrhythmias. Smartwatch data from 229 adult Arminia Bielefeld fans around the 2025 Cup final in Berlin reveal these patterns.
Read at Mail Online
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]