What Watching a Soccer Final Does to Your Body, According to Science

A recent study tracked hundreds of soccer fans until their favorite team reached the final of a tournament. Their stress levels skyrocketed, and their heart rates jumped too. You might think you are, but your body is going to have to be prepared to put in some work--especially if your favorite team makes it. Research shows that watching high-pressure matches can raise your heart rate, increase your stress levels, and put extra strain on your cardiovascular system. According to a recent study from researchers at Bielefeld University in Germany, fans' physiological stress increases by about 41 percent during a soccer final compared to a normal day.