The Relationship Between the Somatosensory System and Growth and Maturation in Pathway Triathletes; a Pilot Study

IntroductionGrowth and maturation during adolescence can affect the somatosensory system, potentially impacting coordination and proprioception. Optimal proprioception is important for performance and preventing lower limb injury. This study investigates the relationship between the somatosensory function, biological maturation and growth tempo in youth pathway triathletes to enable coaches and healthcare professionals to optimise training programs for long term injury prevention and enhance subsequent performance through key stages of development.MethodsFifty three pathway triathletes (aged 12-18 years) were assessed over two separate time points during the triathlon season. At each time point data was collected on growth (height and mass) and maturation (bone age and maturity offset), and somatosensory function using the Active movement extent discrimination assessment (AMEDA) assessment.ResultsAMEDA scores improved with increasing maturity offset in both males and females. Females had reduced symmetry in earlier adolescence and a decline in somatosensory function mid-adolescence compared to male triathletes. There was a weak negative association observed between faster growth tempo and lower somatosensory performance.ConclusionThis study supports the need for youth triathletes training programs to account for athletes sex, stage and tempo of biological maturation. Incorporating lower limb focused proprioception training starting pre PHV may support injury prevention and enhance long term performance outcomes as triathletes progress through the athletic pathway.