Predicted maturity offset and ages at peak height velocity using the Mirwald and Moore equations differed significantly from observed values, questioning their validity as indicators of maturity timing.
Observational (n=58)
Yes
Do maturity offset prediction equations accurately predict age at peak height velocity in youth soccer players?
The study demonstrates that predicted maturity offset and age at PHV equations have significant systematic and proportional errors, questioning their utility as valid indicators of maturity timing in youth soccer players.
p-value: p=<0.001
The purpose of the study was to evaluate predicted maturity offset (time before age at PHV) and age at PHV (chronological age CA minus maturity offset) in a longitudinal sample of 58 under-13 club level soccer players in central Portugal for whom ages at PHV were estimated with the SITAR model. Two maturity offset prediction equations were applied: the original equation which requires CA sitting height, estimated leg length, height and weight, and a modified equation which requires CA and height. Predicted maturity offset increased, on average, with CA at prediction throughout the age range considered, while variation in predicted maturity offset and ages at PHV within CA groups was considerably reduced compared to variation in observed ages at offset and at PHV. Predicted maturity offset and ages at PHV were consistently later than observed maturity offset and age at PHV among early maturing players, and earlier than observed in late maturing players. Both predicted offset and ages at PHV with the two equations were, on average, later than observed among players maturing on time. Intra-individual variation in predicted ages at PHV with each equation was considerable. The results for soccer players were consistent with similar studies in the general population and two recent longitudinal studies of soccer players. The results question the utility of predicted maturity offset and age at PHV as valid indicators of maturity timing and status.
Malina et al. (Mon,) conducted a observational in Healthy youth soccer players (n=58). Mirwald and Moore maturity offset prediction equations vs. Observed age at peak height velocity (SITAR model) was evaluated on Difference between predicted and observed ages at peak height velocity (p=<0.001). Predicted maturity offset and ages at peak height velocity using the Mirwald and Moore equations differed significantly from observed values, questioning their validity as indicators of maturity timing.