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Consequences of sport training during puberty
J N Roemmich1, R J Richmond, A D Rogol
1Department of Pediatrics, State University of New York at Buffalo, 14214-3000, USA. roemmich@buffalo.edu
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
|November 22, 2001
Summary
Athletes in weight control sports may experience delayed growth and maturation due to energy deficits. However, most young athletes maintain their genetic growth potential despite intense training.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric endocrinology
- Sports medicine
- Adolescent physiology
Background:
- Pubertal growth is influenced by genetics, nutrition, and hormones.
- Energy expenditure can impact linear growth and body composition.
- Weight control sports pose unique challenges for adolescent athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of weight control sports on adolescent growth and maturation.
- To examine hormonal and physiological responses in male wrestlers and female gymnasts.
- To understand the long-term implications of energy deficits on athletic development.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies focusing on male wrestlers and female gymnasts.
- Analysis of hormonal profiles, including growth hormone resistance.
- Assessment of linear growth rate, pubertal timing, and body composition changes.
Main Results:
- Male wrestlers showed hormonal changes suggesting mild growth hormone resistance and maturational delay, with rapid recovery post-season.
- Female gymnasts, aiming for a lighter physique, can experience prolonged pre-pubertal states due to marked under-nutrition.
- Delayed estrogen action in gymnasts may lead to long-term skeletal under-mineralization.
Conclusions:
- Most athletes in weight control sports maintain their genetic growth trajectory.
- Significant energy deficits can cause growth and maturational delays, particularly in female gymnasts.
- Longitudinal studies are needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of growth delay in these athletes.
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