Abstract des Autors

This study compared the results of two statistical techniques for examining changes in peak oxygen uptake (PVO2) with age and maturation. From cross-sectional data on 10 to 16-year-olds, two age groups at the extremes of the sample were selected (10-10.9 y, n = 34 vs 15-15.9 y, n = 20). To examine changes in PVO2 by maturational age, the PVO2 of prepubertal children (age 11.0+/-0.5 y, n = 64) was compared with postpubertal subjects (age 15.4+/-0.2 y, n = 16). PVO2 and body mass were significantly related within the age (r = 0.79 and 0.54) and maturity (r = 0.77 and 0.54) groups. T-tests of PVO2 according to the ratio standard (ml/kg/min) revealed no significant differences between either the two age or the two maturity groups. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed no differences between age or maturity groups in the gradients of the regression lines but the elevations of the lines differed significantly. Therefore, while conventional analysis suggests that PVO2 remains stable between 10-16 years and with sexual maturation, comparison of regression standards indicate that for a given body mass older, mature boys have greater PVO2 than younger, immature boys. The results suggest that a review of the validity of methods used to analyse chidlren's responses to exercise during growth is required. Verf.-Referat