Embedding growth and maturation analyses into the talent development pathways of youth weightlifters

Growth and maturation have a significant influence on naturally occurring changes in performance, training-induced adaptations, injury risk, and psychosocial development and should, therefore, be important considerations within talent identification and development pathways for young weightlifters. Key stakeholders in youth weightlifting require an understanding of growth and maturation to support the long-term development of athletes and ensure that future potential is considered rather than making judgments based on enhanced physical qualities synonymous with advanced stages of maturation. This article considers methods of assessing biological maturation and growth rates and then explores how weightlifting performance can be influenced by growth and maturation. The article is accompanied by an Excel template to estimate maturity status and timing. Finally, recommendations are offered to help practitioners embed growth and maturation analysis within youth weightlifting pathways to enhance performance, reduce injury risk, and create optimal training and competition environments.