Growth refers essentially to progressive transformation of quantitative nature that occur in human body dimensions, while development involves both quantitative and qualitative changes, resulting from aspects related to process itself of physical growth, maturation and, specifically in the case of physical education and sport, motor performance. Professional physical education and sport are uniquely positioned to monitor indicators of growth and development, considering its involvement with educational aspects and health promotion among young people. The objective of this review study was present basic concepts and current state of the art associated with growth and development applied to research and professional practice in the area of physical education and sport.
Physical growth; Maturation; Motor performance; Children; Youth