EXcellence and PERformance in Track and Field (EXPERT)-A Mixed-Longitudinal Study on Growth, Biological Maturation, Performance, and Health in Young Athletes: Baseline Results (Part 2).

ABSTRACT: Background: The athletic potential of young athletes is shaped by individual and environmental factors. Objectives: This study examines the physical growth, body composition, biological maturation, motivation, perseverance, physical performance and contextual factors of young male and female track and field athletes. Methods: A total of 425 (224 girls) track and field athletes were recruited and divided into five age cohorts (10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 years respectively). Measurements were assessed across (i) individual (anthropometry, body composition, biological maturation, motivation, and perseverance), (ii) performance (motor performance), and (iii) club context domains. Data analysis used descriptive statistics for clubs' characteristics, a two-factor ANOVA for anthr

SUBMITTER: Ribeiro T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12922135 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature