The rate at which we develop and grow is variable. Boys and girls of the same age show big differences in growth spurts especially when puberty is reached. At the age of 12, girls are much taller than boys of the same age, but at 16 years of age, boys shoot up and overtake the girls in height and body strength.
The way the body develops is not just a result of physical changes, as our mental processes have a large part to play in what we want to achieve. A desire to become a skilful footballer, a long distance runner or a strong swimmer require stamina and years of practise to try and attain the top level.
The food we eat will, to a certain extent, determine how we grow and gives us strong bones. A lack of activity and eating too much sweet sugary food can result in people gaining excessive amounts of weight. It seems unfair that one person can eat all sorts of fattening food and not put on weight whilst others just 'looking at a cream cake' can put on pounds or kilos.
1) Roughly, at what stage in their development do girls start to grow in height?
When they start learning to swim.
When they start primary school.
When they eat raw vegetables.
When they reach puberty at the age of 12 or 13.
2) What do we need to succeed in sport at the top level?
A strong body and a determination to keep persisting.
Extra tuition.
Lots of work in the gym.
Good food.
3) What happens to our bodies if we eat too much and do not take enough exercise?