Abstract

This study presents percentiles for muscle and fat mass in German youngsters and youths, providing valuable insights into age- and sex-specific variations in body composition during the critical stages of growth and development. Using data from a large-scale cross-sectional study, muscle and fat mass measurements were obtained using advanced body composition analysis techniques. Percentile curves were constructed for muscle and fat mass based on age and sex, allowing for the comparison of individual values to population norms. The results highlight distinct trajectories of muscle and fat accumulation throughout childhood and adolescence, with notable sex differences emerging during puberty. Understanding these patterns is essential for assessing growth and development, identifying individuals at risk for overweight or underweight, and informing targeted interventions aimed at promoting healthy body composition and overall well-being in German youth.