Effect of the 'Pilates stance' and Pilates-based matwork training on measurements of height, waist circumference, and interscapular distance.

BACKGROUND: Standardised guidelines for stance are used to improve interobserver reliability in anthropometric measurements in clinical practice. A key feature of the stance in Pilates is the 'drawing in and up' of the abdomen. The aim of this study was to study the impact of the Pilates stance on height, waist circumference and interscapular distance, compared to that recommended in clinical practice. METHODS: 48 healthy females (median age 60 years) were assessed before and after 10-week Pilates-based matwork training. One Pilates expert and one novice took independent measurements of weight, height, waist circumference and interscapular distance (ISD). RESULTS: Pilates stance, compared to Normal, increased height by up to 2.7 cm and decreased waist up to 5.2 cm (each P < 0.001, repeated measures ANOVA). ISD decreased up to 14 mm (P < 0.001) and this decrease was greater after training (P < 0.001). After controlling for age and length of time learning Pilates, greater baseline ISD predicted a greater change in ISD after the intervention. Effect of Pilates stance was greater when the expert took the measurements (each P ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Activation of trunk muscles in the Pilates stance increases height and decreases waist circumference, compared to the stance recommended in UK healthcare settings. A decrease in ISD was observed, which was greater after a Pilates-based matwork programme. There are significant inter-observer differences, therefore current clinical guidelines for stance are recommended for repeated anthropometry. The value of the Pilates stance in improving posture and the role of ISD as a marker, should be further studied in various contexts, including clinical settings.

The Insulin-Like Growth Factor System in Obesity, Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system, acting in concert with other hormone axes, is important in normal metabolism. In obesity, the hyperinsulinaemia that accompanies peripheral insulin resistance leads to reduced growth hormone (GH) secretion, while total IGF-I levels are relatively unchanged due to increased hepatic GH sensitivity. IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-1 levels are suppressed in relation to the increase in insulin levels in obesity and low levels predict the development of type 2 diabetes several years later. Visceral adiposity and hepatic steatosis, along with a chronic inflammation, contribute to the IGF system phenotype in individuals with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus, including changes in the normal inverse relationship between IGFBP-1 and insulin, with IGFBP-1 concentrations that are inappropriately normal or elevated. The IGF system is implicated in the vascular and other complications of these disorders and is therefore a potential therapeutic target.