How Many Minutes is Handball Played?

How Many Minutes is Handball Played?
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Wondering how long a handball game lasts? A standard handball match is played for a total of 60 minutes, divided into two halves of 30 minutes each. This structure keeps the game exciting and fast-paced, ensuring nonstop action from start to finish.

If a match ends in a tie, overtime periods come into play. The first overtime consists of two halves of five minutes each. If it’s still tied, a second overtime of the same length is played. If there’s still no winner, the match moves into a penalty shootout, adding more suspense.

Delving into the game, you’ll see that these time frames are designed to test endurance and strategy. Whether you’re a player or a fan, knowing the rules will help you enjoy the game more. Ready to dive deeper into handball? Keep reading to discover more intriguing details about this sport.

Basics of Handball

Handball is an exciting team sport that combines elements of soccer and basketball. It’s played on a court with seven players on each team, including a goalkeeper. The objective is to score by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s net.

Court and Equipment

The handball court measures 40 meters in length and 20 meters in width. The goals measure 3 meters wide and 2 meters high. Players use a 32-panel leather ball, which differs slightly in size between men’s and women’s competitions.

  • Men’s ball: 58-60 cm in circumference
  • Women’s ball: 54-56 cm in circumference

Gameplay

Teams try to score by passing, dribbling, and shooting the ball into the opponent’s goal. Players can hold the ball for up to three seconds and take no more than three steps without dribbling. Unlike basketball, physical contact is common and players must defend actively.

Match Duration

A standard handball game consists of two periods of 30 minutes each, with a 10-minute break at halftime. If the game ends in a tie, overtime periods and shootouts decide the winner. More details about match duration can be found here.

Team Roles

  • Goalkeeper: Protects the goal and prevents the opponent from scoring
  • Field Players: Both attacking and defensive duties, they pass, dribble, and shoot

Key Rules

  1. Passing and Dribbling: Players can pass or dribble to move the ball.
  2. Scoring: A goal is scored when the ball completely crosses the goal line.
  3. Fouls: Certain physical contacts are allowed, but infractions can lead to free throws or penalties.

By grasping these basics, you can enjoy and perhaps even play handball with confidence. For more detailed rules, you can check out this guide.

How Many Minutes is Handball Played?

Handball games typically last for 60 minutes, split into two periods. If teams are tied at the end of regular time, overtime and possibly a shootout will determine the winner.

Match Length

In handball, a standard game is composed of two halves, each lasting 30 minutes, making the total game time 60 minutes. This structure ensures a balance between play and rest, letting the players show their skills and teamwork in a compact timeframe.

Youth games often have shorter periods. For instance, players under 16 may play two halves of 20 or 25 minutes. This adjustment helps manage their stamina and keeps the game engaging.

The game setup includes two teams of seven players each, vying to score the most goals within these 60 minutes.

Halftime Break

The halftime break in handball is essential for player recovery and strategy adjustments. Between the two 30-minute halves, there is typically a 10 or 15-minute halftime. This period gives coaches time to discuss tactics and allows players to rest and rehydrate.

While the players rest, the coaches might review the first half’s performance and make necessary adjustments. This break is crucial for maintaining high energy levels in the second half. Some youth leagues might shorten this break to keep young players more engaged.

Overtime and Shootouts

If the game ends in a tie after regular time, it moves to overtime. Overtime consists of two periods of five minutes each, separated by a one-minute break. If the tie persists, a second overtime with the same structure follows.

Should the teams remain tied after both overtime periods, the game proceeds to a shootout. Each team selects players to take turns attempting to score against the opposing goalkeeper. This method continues until one team emerges victorious.

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