Problem
A. As a physical educator, coach, AT, PT or OT, how would you determine an individual's level of physical maturation? How would this information impact the training program for this individual?
B. Exercise prescription. Design an exercise program for an 11-year-old girl who wants to get "in better shape" for soccer. Assume the girl has never taken part in a formal training program before.
C. Design a weight training program for a 10-year-old boy who has not engaged in regular physical activity or athletic competition. Include exercises to work each major muscle group and increase intensity, duration, frequency, and rest interval length.
Discussion/Essay Questions
A. Compare and contrast the terms growth, development, and maturation. How can you determine if a child has reached puberty? Explain how the onset of puberty is determined in males and females.
B. What factors should an exercise professional, a coach, or a physical educator consider before planning a running program for children? An anaerobic training program? Discuss the potential risks of long-distance running and weight lifting in children. Why do children have a lower capacity for anaerobic activities than adults?
C. What are the effects of exercise and athletic participation on the menstrual cycle? How does the menstrual cycle affect training and competition? Explain the female athlete triad. What signs should coaches and physical educators look for to identify this syndrome? How is the demand for leanness in certain sports detrimental to female athletes?
D. Describe how disordered eating in athletes may eventually lead to osteoporosis.
E. Discuss the relationships among age, body weight, and strength in children. Why should making weight be of special concern to coaches of children and adolescents?
F. What are the mechanisms of strength increases in prepubescent children? What potential hazards are associated with a resistance training program for children and adolescents?