Physical growth refers to the changes in size, shape, and physical characteristics of the body that occur as a person matures and develops. This growth can be measured through various indicators such as height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Physical growth typically begins at conception and continues throughout childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood.
During infancy and early childhood, physical growth is particularly rapid. Infants typically double their birth weight within the first six months of life, and triple it by their first birthday. During early childhood, children continue to grow in height and weight, and their body proportions begin to change, with their heads becoming proportionally smaller and their limbs growing longer.