Growth, Maturation, Physical Activity, and Sport

Growth, Maturation, Physical Activity, and Sport, Third Edition, is uniquely focused on the biological growth and maturation of children and adolescents in relation to physical performance (both physical activity and sport). Written by a true legend in the field, Robert M. Malina, this latest edition features new content exploring the characteristics of youth sports, associated benefits and risks, and efforts aimed at talent development.

This essential resource guides readers through the complexities of human growth and maturation with the latest research findings and over 350 charts and illustrations that visually support the material. The content has been expanded and modified to incorporate recent advances in technology and science, such as progress in the study of the human genome, deeper understanding of hormone regulation during growth, and advancements in body composition assessment.

Growth, Maturation, Physical Activity, and Sport, Third Edition, uses a five-part structure, enabling readers to gain a basic understanding of growth and maturation and then build upon that foundation. The first two parts focus on age- and sex-associated variations in body composition and explore the concept of biological maturation. Part III discusses primary factors that interact to regulate the process of growth and maturation—hormones, genes, nutrients and energy, and social factors. Part IV considers motor development and performance from infancy through adolescence. Part V has been added to provide an overview of youth sports, participation statistics, and motivation for participation, as well as a review of the growth and maturity characteristics of male and female participants in a variety of team and individual sports.

Growth, Maturation, Physical Activity, and Sport, Third Edition, is the only text to focus on the biological growth and maturation process of children and adolescents as it relates to physical activity and performance. Readers will complete the text with an appreciation for the field and its influence in physical education, kinesiology, and the sport sciences.