Final answer:
During puberty, the size of muscles and bones increase at a faster rate in males than females. This is known as the adolescent growth spurt (AGS), controlled by hormones. Males experience broadening of the shoulders and chest, while females have an increase in body fat, leading to sexual dimorphism in body composition and shape.
Step-by-step explanation:
During puberty, the size of the muscles and bones increase at a faster rate in males than females. This is known as the adolescent growth spurt (AGS), which is controlled by hormones, including growth, thyroid, and sex hormones.
In males, the shoulders and chest broaden relative to the hips, whereas females experience a major increase in body fat, especially in the breasts and hips. All of these changes contribute to the sexual dimorphism in adult body composition and shape.
The circulatory and respiratory systems also undergo rapid growth and development during the AGS, leading to increased strength and tolerance for exercise, which tends to occur to a greater degree in males than females.