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Maturation and Strenuous Training in Young Female Athletes
The Physician and Sportsmedicine
|July 13, 2016
Summary
Vigorous exercise in girls does not appear to disrupt maturational processes. A review of existing research by Robert M. Malina, PhD, indicates no cause for concern regarding athletic development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric exercise science
- Sports medicine
- Human growth and development
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding potential negative impacts of intense physical activity on female maturation.
- Previous studies have explored the relationship between strenuous exercise and pubertal development in young females.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate existing research on the effects of vigorous exercise on maturational processes in girls.
- To provide an expert assessment of the scientific evidence concerning exercise and female development.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and critical analysis of published research.
- Evaluation of studies examining exercise intensity and maturational timing in adolescent females.
Main Results:
- The majority of reviewed studies do not support a significant detrimental effect of vigorous exercise on female maturation.
- Observed variations in maturation are often attributable to factors other than exercise intensity.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not warrant alarm regarding the impact of vigorous exercise on girls' maturational processes.
- Athletic participation and intense training are generally safe for female development.
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