LTAD models must take into account periods of rapid development throughout childhood
Changes in growth & maturation can have major effects on kids ability to develop physiological capabilities
To combat this, parents should track height to determine peak height velocity (PHV)
Peak height velocity is the period when the child has reached their fastest rate of growth, in other words, the major growth spurt period (Balyi & Way, 2005)
This can give parents insight on maturity & hormonal levels of their child which can help determine appropriate training
In terms of physiological capabilities I think the big ones that are determined by the hormonal changes from PHV are hypertrophy and strength
The increases in testosterone, growth hormone, and other hormonal changes give the athlete a greater opportunity to hone in on these capabilities
However, kids of all ages should be building basic strength through developing movement quality & physical literacy
PHV can just give us an indication on when the child is maturing & developing, usually at the age of around 12 for girls & 14 for boys — important for physiology
Windows of opportunity based off PHV just provide a good framework to a developmental plan of action. But as long as the athlete is capable, sports & proper athletic development will integrate all of these skills and capabilities either way, IMO
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