Maturity Status and Relative Age of Elite Taekwondo Youth Competitors—Case Study on Croatian National Team

Abstract

This study examines the maturity status and relative age effect in elite youth taekwondo Croatian National Team athletes. Measurements of biological age, maturity offset, and body composition were taken from a sample of 17 junior athletes. Differences in maturity status were observed among athletes of the same chronological age, with variations in sitting height and age at peak height velocity. Male athletes generally exhibited higher values in body height, percentage of body fat, muscle mass, and total body water. No significant relative age effect was found. These findings highlight the importance of considering individual biological age and maturity status for talent development and training program adjustments. Further research involving athletes from different countries is recommended to validate these results and enhance the understanding of youth taekwondo athlete development.