Short-term effects of Pilates-based exercise on upper limb strength and function in people with Parkinson's disease.

BACKGROUND: People with Parkinson's disease (PD) have impaired upper limb motor coordination, limiting the execution of activities of daily living. This study investigated the feasibility and safety of a short-term Pilates-based exercise program in the treatment of upper limb motor coordination for people with PD. METHODS: Fifteen patients - n (%) 4 women/11 men (27/73), median [interquartile range] age 66 [9] years - participated in this quasi-experimental (before-and-after) clinical trial. Patients underwent a 6-week (30 min/day, 3 days/week) Pilates exercise program using Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrel equipment. Feasibility was evaluated by adherence to the program and the ability to perform the exercises including progressions on difficulty. Safety was evaluated based on self-reported adverse events. Clinical and functional trends before and after the intervention were also computed regarding handgrip strength (HGS), fine motor coordination (9 Hole Peg Test; 9HPT), bradykinesia (Movement Disorder Society - Unified Parkinson's disease Rating Scale; MDS-UPDRS), and upper limb functionality (Test D'évaluation des Membres Supérieurs des Personnes Âgées, TEMPA). RESULTS: Of the 18 Pilates sessions, exercise adherence was 100%. The only adverse event observed was mild muscle pain. Pre-post differences were observed only for body bradykinesia and hypokinesia (1.0 [0.0] vs. 0.0 [1.0] s, adjusted p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: A short-term Pilates-based exercise program in the treatment of upper limb muscle strength, manual dexterity, bradykinesia, and functionality is feasible and safe for people with PD. Changes in upper limb bradykinesia encourage randomized clinical trials.

The Effects of Cervical Mobilization with Clinical Pilates Exercises on Pain, Muscle Stiffness and Head and Neck Blood Flow in Cervicogenic Headache: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and Objectives: Physiotherapy approaches are used to eliminate the problems caused by cervicogenic headache (CHA), known as secondary headache associated with the structures of the upper cervical region. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cervical mobilization (CM) with clinical Pilates exercises (CPE) on pain, muscle stiffness and head-neck blood flow in CGH. Materials and Methods: A total of 25 patients participated in this randomized controlled study and were randomized into either the CM group or the CM+CPE group. All treatment methods were applied 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The outcome measure was headache intensity and frequency, the number of analgesics, muscle stiffness and vertebral artery (VA) and internal carotid artery (ICA) blood flow. Headache intensity was measured by a visual analogue scale, muscle stiffness by a myotonometer and blood flow by Doppler US. Evaluations were repeated after 6 weeks of treatment. Within-group comparisons were made by the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and between-group comparisons were made by the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: After treatments in the two groups, headache intensity and frequency and the number of analgesics decreased, the muscle stiffness of the suboccipital, upper trapezius and sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles decreased, and the blood flow of the ICA and VA increased (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of headache intensity (p = 0.025) and muscle stiffness in SKM (p = 0.044) in favor of the CM+CPE group. Conclusions: Non-pharmacological treatment approaches have an important role in CHA related to the upper cervical region. This study suggests that it would be beneficial to add CM in combination with CPE to the non-pharmacological treatment of patients with CHA.

Acute Pilates and plyometric exercise in school-based settings improve attention and mathematics performance in high school students.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of acute Pilates and plyometric exercise in a school-based setting on attention and mathematics test performance in high school students. Forty 10th-grade students (21 females and 19 males; age: [15.0 ± 0.5] years, body mass index: [21.4 ± 2.8] kg/m2) participated in this crossover and quasi-experimental study. In week 1, students were familiarized with the d2 test of attention and Pilates and plyometric exercises activities, and body composition measurements were taken. In both weeks 2 and 3, students completed the d2 test of attention and mathematics test with 20 questions following a single session of low-to-moderate-intensity exercise and a classroom-based non-exercise activity, in a non-randomized order. The exercise sessions included 30 mins of plyometric exercises for male students and Pilates exercise for female students, with intensities corresponding to 10-14 on the Borg rating of perceived exertion scale6-20. Compared to the non-exercise activity, a 30-min of Pilates and plyometric exercise resulted in significant improvements in attention score (mean difference [Δ] â€‹= â€‹54.5 score; p â€‹< 0.001; Cohen's effect sizes [d] â€‹= â€‹1.26) and concentration performance (Δ â€‹= â€‹20.7 score; p â€‹= â€‹0.003; d â€‹= â€‹0.51). The students scored significantly higher on the mathematics test after participating in the exercise sessions compared to the non-exercise condition (Δ% â€‹= â€‹11.7; p â€‹< â€‹0.001; d â€‹= â€‹0.76). There were no significant differences between genders (p â€‹> â€‹0.05). These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of acute light-to-moderate-intensity Pilates and plyometric exercises in school-based settings for improving attention and mathematics performance in adolescents.

Effects of Pilates in children and adolescents - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pilates can be performed by children as a form of exercise to promote healthy growth and development. The increasing use of Pilates as a type of exercise for children or as an adjunct tool in pediatric rehabilitation should be supported by evidence of its benefits. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effects of Pilates as an exercise prescription for children and adolescents. METHODS: Five electronic databases were searched to identify trials (randomized controlled clinical trials or quasi-experimental studies) with a population of children or adolescents in which Pilates (mat or equipment) was performed as a form of exercise. Studies that investigated outcomes related to health and physical performance was analyzed. Individual trial effects were extracted and pooled for meta-analysis whenever possible. To evaluate the external and internal validity of the studies, we assessed their risk of bias. RESULTS: Fifteen studies (from 945 records), including 1235 participants, met the eligibility criteria, and were included. The reported outcomes were heterogeneous, so only the effect on flexibility could be included in the meta-analysis (n = 4 studies). A significant positive trend toward improved flexibility for the control group compared with the Pilates group was found (Std. mean difference, 0.54; 95%CI: 0,18, 0.91; p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Few studies have assessed the effect of Pilates on children and adolescents. The lack of appropriate methodological descriptions/controls made it impossible to determine if all of the included studies were of good quality.

Effectiveness of mat pilates on fatigue in women with breast cancer submitted to adjuvant radiotherapy: randomized controlled clinical trial.

PURPOSE: This clinical trial aimed to evaluate the influence of Mat Pilates and time on the change in fatigue scores in women with breast cancer undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). Additionally, assess the adherence and adverse effects of Mat Pilates sessions and the association of the level of physical activity with severe fatigue symptoms. METHODS: One hundred fifty-six patients with non-metastatic breast cancer were randomized to usual care or supervised Mat Pilates exercise. Fatigue and physical activity level were measured at baseline, end of RT, 30 days, 3 and 6 months after RT. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) with intention to treat was applied. RESULTS: A significant difference in the fatigue mean between the end of RT and the baseline was found in patients of both groups. There was no adverse effect with the practice of Mat Pilates, and it was analyzed the reduction of the symptom pain after the end of RT in women of intervention group compared to the control. There was no significant effect on fatigue between the groups. Patients with severe fatigue after 3 and 6 months of RT reported a significantly lower level of physical activity in the last periods. CONCLUSION: Fatigue levels increased at the end of RT but returned to baseline values after 6 months. A lower level of physical activity was associated with severe fatigue symptoms. Mat Pilates was safe for these women and reduced the symptom pain after treatment, but it did not successfully reduce fatigue during adjuvant RT. REGISTRATION: NCT03333993. November 7, 2017.  https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03333993?term=breast+cancer&cond=pilates&draw=2&rank=1 .

Simultaneous bilateral shoulder dislocation during pilates reformer exercise: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Simultaneous bilateral shoulder dislocations are extremely rare occurrences and are rarely associated with exercise. CASE DESCRIPTION: We present an unusual case of bilateral simultaneous shoulder dislocation which occurred during an unsupervised Pilates Reformer exercise session. A 41-year-old female felt sudden severe pain and forward displacement in both shoulders during abduction and external rotation. Bilateral anterior shoulder dislocation was confirmed with initial X-rays in the emergency department. Spontaneous reduction of the right shoulder was observed in the emergency room and then the left side was reduced under general anesthesia. Physical therapy modalities, exercises for shoulder girdle and core strength were implemented as conservative management. The patient returned to desk work and had pain-free range of motion with satisfactory strength on both sides in the fourth week and performed daily life activities without any symptoms in the tenth week. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the importance of training under supervision of an exercise instructor, even if it is considered a "so-called safe" exercise method.

The Relationship of Trunk Muscle Activation and Core Stability: A Biomechanical Analysis of Pilates-Based Stabilization Exercise.

Pilates is an effective exercise method for rehabilitating musculoskeletal disorders as its principles are based on the activation of local muscles. This study aimed to compare the subjects with and without Pilates experience to find out the effect of the experience on the core muscle activity and muscle co-contraction, and to examine the relationship between the core muscle activation level and the kinematic data. This study involved 32 subjects, including 16 experienced Pilates practitioners and 16 non-experienced subjects. The knee stretch on the reformer was performed in three different positions: flat back with a neutral pelvis, round back with posteriorly tilted pelvis (RPP), and extended back anteriorly tilted pelvis (EAP). The electromyography of the internal oblique (IO), rectus abdominis (RA), multifidus (MU), and iliocostalis lumborum (IL) muscles were measured, as well as kinematic data from a 3D motion analysis system. Compared to the non-experienced subjects, the experienced subjects activated the IO muscles more than the RA muscles, and the most significant difference was seen in the RPP position (p < 0.05). The experienced patients activated the MU muscles more often than the IL muscles, with the most significant difference observed in the RPP position and the least significant in the EAP position (p < 0.05). All kinematic data and muscle activity (IO, IO/RA ratio, MU/IL ratio) showed significant differences between the experienced and non-experienced subjects (p < 0.05). The subjects presented a moderate correlation between muscle activation and core stability. It was confirmed that the experienced Pilates practitioners activated the abdominal and low back core muscles effectively, and the stability of the pelvis and trunk were better than that of the non-experienced participants. In addition, the better the trunk stability was maintained, the larger and more accurate movement of the mobility segment was observed.

Effectiveness of the Mat Pilates on the postural control, plantar pressure and plantar arch of school children: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of Mat Pilates on postural control, plantar pressure and plantar arch (ALM) in schoolchildren. DESIGN AND SETTING: The study was a randomized clinical trial, developed at the Early Childhood Education Institute, Londrina-PR. The participants were randomly assigned to groups: Pilates Group (PG) and Control Group (CG). Patients in the CG did not perform extra physical activity (Interventions). PARTICIPANTS: 43 children (eight to 12 years), no prior knowledge of the Pilates method, and no exercise training in the last six months. INTERVENTION: The exercise program was based on the Mat Pilates method, twice weekly, 50 min each, 28 sessions. OUTCOME MEASURES: Static balance (force platform), dynamic balance (the Reach Test), ALM (plantigraphy) and plantar pressure (baropodometry). The assessors were blinded to the allocation of participants. RESULTS: Three children were excluded before randomization and 40 were randomized (PG n: 20; CG n:20).12 children were excluded during the protocol (PG n:7; CG n:5) and included in the intention to treat analysis. No significant difference between groups was observed for static and dynamic balance and ALM measures. There was a significant difference in the following outcomes for the PG: the plantar pressure on the right hemibody forefoot between pre-test 38.70 ± 14.38 and post-test 42.65 ± 15.63 (ES = 0.66; SRM = 0.50). The plantar pressure on the right hemibody rearfoot between pre-test 61.10 ± 14.18 and post-test 56.85 ± 19.39 (ES = 0.68; SRM = 0.53). No adverse or harmful events were reported in any group. CONCLUSION: There were no differences in static and dynamic postural control and ALM between PG and CG. However, children GP showed improvement in some results of plantar pressure in relation CG. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBEC) (N_ RBR-8t5p7d).

Effects of 12-week Pilates training program on cardiac autonomic modulation: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Aim: To evaluate the effects of 12-week Pilates training program on cardiac autonomic modulation. Materials & methods: A randomized controlled trial of a 12-week Pilates training program was conducted. A total of 54 men were randomly allocated to either a control or a Pilates group. Initially, the RR intervals were captured for 20 min for later analysis of heart rate variability (HRV). The training protocol was then initiated, in which the Pilates group performed 36 sessions of the Pilates method for approximately 60 min each session, three-times a week, totaling 12 weeks. The control group was instructed to maintain their normal activities during this period. One week after the end of the training, the final evaluations were performed with the capture of RR intervals in both the groups. Linear indices in the time (SDNN and rMSSD) and frequency (low frequency [LF] and high frequency [HF]) domains, and the Poincaré plot (SD1 and SD2) were used. Nonlinear indices were also analyzed (approximate entropy and detrended fluctuation analysis). Descriptive statistics and generalized mixed models were performed. Results: There was a group effect for LF (ms2) and a time effect for SD2. There was a training effect observed by the time*group interactions in which an increase in global HRV indices was found for the Pilates group after 12 weeks (SDNN: mean difference [MD] = 9.82; standard deviation [SD] = 18.52; ES = -0.514; LF [ms2]: MD = 334.23; SD = 669.43; ES = -0.547; SD2: MD = 14.58; SD = 24.28; ES = -0.693). Conclusion: A 12-week Pilates training program promotes significant improvement in global modulation of HRV in the Pilates group considering the significant increase in SDNN, LF (ms2) and SD2 indices. Trial registration number: NCT03232866.

Effect of Pilates Matwork exercises on posterior chain flexibility and trunk mobility in school children: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of an exercise program, based on the Pilates Matwork method, on posterior chain flexibility and trunk mobility in healthy school age children. DESIGN AND SETTING: The study was a parallel-group randomized clinical trial. The participants were randomly assigned to groups: Pilates Group (PG) and Control Group (CG). The program was developed at the Early Childhood Education Institute, Londrina-PR. PARTICIPANTS: 43 children with age between eight to 12 years, no prior knowledge of the Pilates method, and no exercise training in the last six months. INTERVENTION: Four months of twice a week 50 min Pilates Matwork exercises were administered. OUTCOME MEASURES: Flexibility and mobility, assessed using the sit-and-reach test, fingertip-to-floor test and photogrammetry. The assessors were blinded to the allocation of participants. RESULTS: Three children were excluded before randomization and 40 were randomized (PG n = 20; CG n = 20).12 children were excluded during the protocol (PG n = 7; CG n = 5) and included in the intention to treat analysis. No significant difference between groups was observed for flexibility measures. There was a significant difference in the following outcomes for the PG: distance reached in the sit-and-reach test between pre-test (median 14.25[11.25-28.38]) and post-test (median 20.25[12.00-29.63]) (ES = 0.29, SRM = 0.73); Posterior angle of the knee in the fingertip-to-floor test between pre-test (median 191.60[187.20-191.60]) and post-test (median 189.00[185.90-191.50]) (ES = 0.56, SRM = 0.54). CONCLUSION: There were no differences in posterior chain flexibility and trunk mobility between school age children who underwent Pilates Matwork exercises and the control. However, children who participated in the exercise program showed improvement in some results of flexibility. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBEC) (N° RBR-8t5p7d).

Hypertrophy of Lumbopelvic Muscles in Inactive Women: A 36-Week Pilates Study.

BACKGROUND: The use of Pilates in various fields of sport sciences and rehabilitation is increasing; however, little is known about the muscle adaptations induced by this training method. HYPOTHESIS: A standardized Pilates training program for beginners (9 months; 2 sessions of 55 minutes per week) will increase the muscle volume and reduce potential side-to-side asymmetries of the quadratus lumborum, iliopsoas, piriformis, and gluteus muscles (gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus). STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3. METHOD: A total of 12 inactive, healthy women (35.7 ± 5.4 years) without previous experience in Pilates were randomly selected to participate in a supervised Pilates program (36 weeks, twice weekly). Muscle volume (cm3) was determined using magnetic resonance imaging at the beginning and end of the intervention program. Side-to-side asymmetry was calculated as [(left - right volume) × 100/right volume]. RESULTS: Small, nonsignificant (P > 0.05) differences in the volume of the quadratus lumborum, iliopsoas, piriformis, and gluteus muscles were observed between pre- and post-Pilates program timepoints. Before and after Pilates, side-to-side asymmetry was less than 6% and nonsignificant in all muscles analyzed. CONCLUSION: Modern Pilates performed twice weekly for 9 months did not elicit substantial changes in the volume and degree of asymmetry of the selected lumbopelvic muscles in inactive women. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The benefits of Pilates in rehabilitation or training are likely elicited by neuromuscular rather than morphological adaptations. Pilates has no significant impact on muscle volume and does not alter side-to-side ratios in muscle volume (degree of asymmetry) of the lumbopelvic muscles.

Effectiveness of mat Pilates on postural alignment in the sagittal plane in school children: a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the mat Pilates method, an exercise program, on postural alignment in the sagittal plane among children aged between 8 and 12 years. Method: This study used a blind randomized controlled clinical trial, with a Pilates group (PG) and control group (CG) at the Early Childhood Education Institute. A total of 40 children were randomized, who have no prior knowledge of the Pilates method and no exercise training in the last six months. Mat Pilates exercises were administered twice a week for four months in 50-minute sessions. Postural alignment in the sagittal plane was assessed using photogrammetry. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups post-intervention A significant difference was found in the following outcomes that represent an improvement in intragroup postural alignment: among the children in PG, in the right sagittal view in the vertical body alignment (p=0.019; effect size, ES = 0.70; standardize response mean, SRM = 0.57) and in the sagittal head angle (p=0.035; ES = 0.41; SRM = 0.51). Among the children in the CG, in the vertical alignment of the trunk in the left sagittal view (p= 0.016; ES = 0.50; SRM = 0.44). Conclusion: The effectiveness of Pilates on postural alignment in the sagittal plane among children aged between 8 and 12 years was not confirmed.

Protocolo De Entrenamiento Vocal Fonoaudiológico Para Cantantes / Phonoaudiological Vocal Training Protocol For Singers

El entrenamiento vocal es un campo que puede ser apoyado por profesiones con experticia y conocimiento en el tema de la voz, como la fonoaudiología. La presente investigación evidencia y describe el diseño de un protocolo de entrenamiento vocal fonoaudiológico basado en los principios de aprendizaje sensoriomotor (P.A.S.M) con ejercicios de la técnica Alexander, la técnica Pranayama, el método Pilates y el tracto vocal semiocluido y su relación con: la propiocepción, el control respiratorio, el aumento de la capacidad vital espiratoria y la eficiencia fonatoria necesarios para lograr una economía vocal en pro del desempeño profesional del cantante. La validación de contenido del protocolo fue realizada por 3 jueces expertos en el tema, quienes delimitaron que es pertinente, relevante, suficiente y coherente, en cuanto a la claridad se encontró que el protocolo debía mejorar algunos aspectos referidos a las imágenes de apoyo y claridad en las instrucciones (repeticiones y desarrollo), dichas sugerencias fueron tenidas en cuenta para realizar los respectivos ajustes y modificaciones en el protocolo. En conclusión, el entrenamiento vocal es un proceso extenso que requiere gran disciplina por parte del estudiante, sin embargo, profesiones con la experticia y conocimiento en el campo de la voz como la fonoaudiología, debe brindar herramientas para apoyar el trabajo de los profesionales de la voz previo a la aparición de patologías vocales

Vocal training is a field that can be supported by professions with expertise and knowledge in the subject of voice, such as speech therapy. The present investigation evidences and describes the design of a vocal training protocol based on the principles of sensorimotor learning with exercises of the Alexander technique, the Pranayama technique, the Pilates method and the semi-occluded vocal tract and its relationship with: proprioception, respiratory control, increased expiratory vital capacity and phonatory efficiency necessary to achieve a vocal economy in pro to the singer's professional performance. The content validation of the protocol was performed by 3 judges experts in the field, who defined that it is pertinent, relevant, sufficient and coherent, in terms of clarity it was found that the protocol should improve some aspects related to the images of support and clarity in the instructions (repetitions and development), these suggestions were taken into account to make the respective adjustments and modifications in the protocol. In conclusion, vocal training is an extensive process that requires great discipline from the student, however, professions with the expertise and knowledge in the field of voice such as speech therapy, should provide tools to support the work of the voice professionals prior to the appearance of vocal pathologies.Jessica Rocío López García , BSHSource | Filiacion:Corporación Universitaria IberoamericanaBIO:Fonoaudiologa- Corporación Universitaria IberoamericanaCity | Ciudad:Bogotá DC [co]Citar como:López García , J. R. (2019). Protocolo De Entrenamiento Vocal Fonoaudiológico Para Cantantes : Vocalical -. Areté issn-l:1657-2513, 19 (2), 61-74. Obtenido de: https://arete.ibero.edu.co/article/view/168262Para su más amplia difusión, esta obra y sus contenidos se distribuyen bajo licencia: Creative Commons Atribución-NoComercial-CompartirIgual 4.0 InternationalSe autoriza cualquier tipo de reproducción y sus diferentes usos, siempre y cuando se preserve la integridad del contenido y se cite la fuente.ARETÉARETÉFonoaudiologíaRevistaISSN-l: 1657-2513 | e-ISSN: 2463-2252

Do Pilates-based exercises following total knee arthroplasty improve postural control and quality of life?

PURPOSE: The aim of this prospective, randomized, controlled study was to investigate the effects of the addition of Pilates-based exercises to standard exercise programs performed after total knee arthroplasty on quality of life and balance. METHOD: Forty-six volunteers were divided into two groups. The control group (n = 17) was assigned a standard exercise program after discharge; the study group (n = 17) was assigned Pilates-based exercises along with the standard exercise program. We carried out clinical evaluations of all patients on the day of discharge and after the completion of the 6-week exercise program. We also recorded sociodemographic data, Berg Balance test scores, and Short Form-36 (SF-36) health-related quality of life measurements. RESULTS: When we compared the differences between pre- and post-treatment balance scores of the groups, we found a significant change in favor of the Pilates-based exercise group (13.64 ± 1.45; p < 0.01). The changes in the pre- and post-treatment SF-36 scores of the Pilates-based exercises group were found to be significant in terms of physical function (p = 0.001), physical role restriction (p = 0.01), and physical component score (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Pilates-based exercises performed along with standard exercise programs were more effective for improving balance and quality of life than standard exercise programs alone.

Trunk Muscle EMG During Intermediate Pilates Mat Exercises in Beginner Healthy and Chronic Low Back Pain Individuals.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the electromyographic pattern of core muscles during intermediate Pilates mat exercises between healthy people and those with low back pain. METHODS: We evaluated healthy participants (n = 19; mean ± standard deviation [SD]: age 28 ± 8 years, body mass 65 ± 10 kg, height 160.0 ± 9.1 cm) and a low back pain group (n = 13; mean ± SD: age 30 ± 9 years, body mass 67 ± 12 kg, height 170.0 ± 6.6 cm). Electromyographic analysis assessed the multifidus, external oblique, internal oblique, and rectus abdominis muscles during classical Pilates exercises (single leg stretch, criss-cross, and dead bug). We calculated the root mean square normalized by maximum voluntary contraction, and the time of peak activation was provided by a linear envelope and normalized by the total movement cycle. RESULTS: The criss-cross exercise presented the highest values of root mean square for trunk flexors (rectus abdominis and oblique) compared with the other exercises, followed by the single leg stretch and the dead bug, which had similar muscle activation. The single leg stretch presented more activation of the rectus abdominis and oblique, whereas the criss-cross and dead bug created more activation of the oblique compared with the multifidus and rectus. CONCLUSIONS: The Pilates exercises presented different muscle recruitment patterns, and allowed the activation of the lumbopelvic stabilizing muscles even in the first session for healthy individuals and those with chronic low back pain.

Pilates Method for Women's Health: Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVE: To critically analyze the benefits of Pilates on health outcomes in women. DATA SOURCES: CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Science Direct, SPORTDiscus, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. STUDY SELECTION: Databases were searched using the terms Pilates and Pilates Method. Published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they comprised female participants with a health condition and a health outcome was measured, Pilates needed to be administered, and the article was published in English in a peer-reviewed journal from 1980 to July 2014. DATA EXTRACTION: Two authors independently applied the inclusion criteria to potential studies. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. A best-evidence grading system was used to determine the strength of the evidence. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. PEDro scale values ranged from 3 to 7 (mean, 4.5; median, 4.0), indicating a relatively low quality overall. In this sample, Pilates for breast cancer was most often trialed (n=2). The most frequent health outcomes investigated were pain (n=4), quality of life (n=4), and lower extremity endurance (n=2), with mixed results. Emerging evidence was found for reducing pain and improving quality of life and lower extremity endurance. CONCLUSIONS: There is a paucity of evidence on Pilates for improving women's health during pregnancy or for conditions including breast cancer, obesity, or low back pain. Further high-quality RCTs are warranted to determine the effectiveness of Pilates for improving women's health outcomes.

Effects of pilates training on lumbo-pelvic stability and flexibility.

PURPOSE: This study was performed to assess and compare the effects of Pilates exercise on flexibility and lumbo-pelvic movement control between the Pilates training and control groups. METHODS: A randomized single-blinded controlled design was utilized in the study. Forty healthy male and female volunteers (mean age 31.65±6.21 years) were randomly divided into Pilates-based training (20 subjects) and the control groups (20 subjects). The Pilates group attended 45-minute training sessions, 2 times per week, for a period of 8 weeks. Flexibility and lumbo-pelvic stability tests were determined as outcome measures using a standard "sit and reach test" and "pressure biofeedback" respectively at 0, 4 and 8 weeks of the study. RESULTS: The results showed that the Pilates training group improved flexibility significantly (P<0.001) during time intervals. This effect was also significantly greater than the control group for both 4 weeks and 8 weeks of the training period (P<0.001). There were 65% and 85% of the subjects from Pilates group passing the lumbo-pelvic stability test at 4 and 8 weeks of training periods respectively. No subjects from the control group passed the test at any stages. CONCLUSIONS: Pilates can be used as an adjunctive exercise program to improve flexibility, enhance control-mobility of trunk and pelvic segments. It may also prevent and attenuate the predisposition to axial musculoskeletal injury.