Abstract

The aim of the study is to analyse the development of endurance amongst girls (n=230), according to the two criteria of calendar age and puberty stage. The endurance is estimated using the COOPER test and the puberty stages are determined by Tanners method. The t-test values of basic performances, expressed in meters, indicate that the differences observed cannot be attributed either to the puberty stage or to the calendar age. But the analysis of the variables of the m/kg ratio shows that the differences can be attributed to the puberty stages at 12, 13 and 14 years of age. At these ages, diverse stages are possible, and the differences are only important between the 2nd and 3rd stage and between the 4th and 5th stage of puberty. The transitions between these stages indicate a significant reduction in endurance, expressed through the m/kg ratio. Thus the assessment of endurance by the basic performance in a 12 minute run according to the chronological age is inappropriate in girls during puberty. This assessment appears to be more accurate when the m/kg ratio is taken into account, this ratio developing alongside the puberty stages. Verf.-Referat