Abstract des Autors

We tested the influence of intense strain of training on growth because a physiologically normal development is important for the health and fitness of children and adolescents, and because of the very small body length and developmental delays observed especially in gymnasts. During an observation period of 3 years, we determined, within the framework of a longitudinal study body length, body weight, and age of bones. The examined population presented a developmental delay of 2 years at the beginning of the study. They showed, on an average, a largely proportional growth without increase of developmental delay. Distribution ranges and single observations point to possibilities of developmental stagnation due to physical strain. A periodic control and assessment of the development of body length and body weight is necessary under high physical strain. Leaving the channel of growth requires careful clinical examination. Verf.-Referat