Objective. To compare the physical growth of schoolchildren to moderate altitude with reference standards proposed by Frisancho and Tracer for arm muscle area by height and Frisancho for arm muscle area by age. Method. A cross-sectional study of urban schoolchildren in the province of Arequipa (Perú). The sample was stratified by age and sex, with 473 men and 482 women ranging in age from 6 to 12 years for belonging to the education system at primary level socioeconomic status Peruvian media. Anthropometric variables were assessed weight, height, arm circumference and triceps skinfold and arm muscle area for height and age. Data were compared by Z scores according to the fraction: 100 log (percentile of the reference / percentile calculated). The differences between the sample and reference were analyzed by the paired t test with a significance of p < 0.001. Results. The values of the reference arm muscle areas in relation to height and age are higher in comparison with students of moderate altitude. Was observed 2 years behind men and women according to the comparison with age-muscle area. Similarly, using the muscle area by height 17cm lag was observed in men and 20cm in women. Conclusions. 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