ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the patterns, mechanisms and processes of skeletal growth and development. The changes in size and shape from childhood to adolescence are outlined, and the anatomical mechanisms are described in more detail. Bone length is governed by the activity of growth plates and the maturation of bone is a result of ossification in primary and secondary centres within the bone. The effect of factors which affect bone growth, such as nutrition, hormones and mechanical stress, are described prior to a discussion of the effect of training on skeletal growth, body build and composition, and sexual maturity.
