Search Results (47)

Background: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of rehabilitation-focused exercise interventions for lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD), a leading cause of chronic low back pain. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across international and regional databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Magiran, SID, and Noormags) covering the period from January 2010 to January 2025. The review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under registration number CRD420251088811. Using keywords such as “lumbar DDD,” “exercise therapy,” and “rehabilitation,” a total of 2495 records were identified. After screening, 20 studies—including clinical trials, quasi-experimental, and experimental designs—met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using the McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies. Results: Interventions such as hydrotherapy, core stability training, Pilates, and suspension exercises were found to significantly reduce pain and improve functional outcomes. While multimodal approaches (e.g., aquatic exercise combined with acupuncture) showed positive effects, the comparative studies revealed no significant differences between modalities. Suspension training demonstrated superior efficacy in pain reduction compared to isolated core stability exercises. The methodological quality of included studies ranged from good to excellent, with the majority rated as very good or excellent (McMaster scores: 8 “excellent,” 7 “very good,” and 5 “good”). Common limitations among the studies included methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes (n = 14–30), and insufficient long-term follow-up. Conclusions: Exercise-based rehabilitation is an effective strategy for managing lumbar DDD. Evidence particularly supports the use of suspension training and aquatic therapy for superior improvements in pain and functional outcomes. Future research should aim to adopt standardized protocols, recruit larger sample sizes, and include extended follow-up periods to produce more robust and generalizable findings. Full article

The Pilates breathing technique is theorized to improve neuromuscular efficiency, but its specific effects on peripheral muscles have not been thoroughly investigated. This study evaluated how Pilates breathing influenced the neuromuscular efficiency of the biceps brachii muscle during submaximal elbow flexion in comparison to regular breathing. Fifty-eight healthy adults without prior experience with the Pilates method of exercise performed concentric and eccentric elbow contractions at 20%, 40%, and 60% of their maximal voluntary isometric contraction under two breathing conditions: the specialized Pilates breathing pattern (executing movements exclusively during expiration) and normal breathing patterns. Muscle activity was measured using surface electromyography, with neuromuscular efficiency quantified as the relationship between muscle electrical activity and force production. The results revealed significantly improved neuromuscular efficiency during Pilates breathing at all tested intensity levels, with the most substantial enhancement observed at 60% of maximal effort. The eccentric phase of movement demonstrated greater efficiency gains compared to the concentric phase. These findings indicate that the distinct breathing pattern used in Pilates can independently enhance neuromuscular performance in the biceps brachii. This study suggests that incorporating Pilates breathing techniques could be beneficial in rehabilitation programs and strength training regimens to optimize both muscle function and movement efficiency. Additional research is recommended to examine the long-term effects and practical applications in clinical and athletic settings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often experience impaired physical function and metabolic control. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week Pilates-based intervention on blood glucose concentration and physical function in this population. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 104 older adults (mean age: 70.6 ± 3.15 years; 70.2% women), all diagnosed with T2DM. The participants were assigned to a control group (CG, n = 52) or a Pilates training group (PG, n = 52). The intervention included 24 Pilates sessions over 12 weeks (2 sessions/week, 60 min each). Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention and included capillary blood glucose, handgrip strength, functional mobility (Timed Up and Go), balance (Berg Balance Scale), and flexibility (Chair Sit-and-Reach Test and Back Scratch Test). Results: Compared to the control group, the Pilates group showed statistically significant improvements in blood glucose levels (−4.06 mg/dL (p < 0.001; d = 0.68)), handgrip strength (+1.76 kg (p < 0.001; d = 0.48)), gait speed (p < 0.001; d = 0.53), balance (Berg score) (+2.37 points (p < 0.001; d = 0.66)), and flexibility (improvements in upper limbs (BST, d = 0.78–0.98) and lower limbs (CSRT, d = 1.07 right; d = 0.63 left)). Conclusions: A 12-week Pilates program led to significant improvements in glycemic control, muscular strength, gait speed, balance, and flexibility in older adults with T2DM. These findings support Pilates as a safe, effective, and adaptable non-pharmacological intervention to promote functional and metabolic health in this population. Full article

Background/Objectives: Chronic stroke survivors often regain walking speed but continue to exhibit heightened gait variability, increasing fall risk. This study investigated the effects of a 12-week moderate-to-high intensity muscle strengthening program on gait parameters and their variability in stroke survivors, without incorporating gait-specific training. Methods: Stroke survivors participated in a twice-weekly, 45–60 min strengthening program using Pilates equipment. Spatiotemporal gait parameters were measured before and after the intervention using 3D motion capture. Walking speed, cadence, step/stride length, step width, and various temporal parameters were analyzed for both paretic and non-paretic limbs, along with their coefficients of variation (CV). Correlation analyses were performed to understand the relationships between parameter changes. Results: Eleven patients (age 61 ± 7.4 years, 9 males) participated in the study. Significant improvements were observed in walking speed for both paretic (0.61 to 0.69 m/s, p = 0.032) and non-paretic limbs (0.62 to 0.69 m/s, p = 0.024). Step length significantly increased in the paretic limb (0.36 to 0.41 m, p = 0.042) with a substantial reduction in variability (CV: 19.91% to 14.99%). Cadence increased significantly in the non-paretic limb (89.24 to 92.01 steps/min, p = 0.024). Correlation analysis revealed distinct adaptation patterns between limbs, with speed improvements strongly associated with stride length in both limbs, but with step length only in the non-paretic limb. Conclusions: A moderate-to-high intensity strengthening program, even without direct gait training, can improve walking speed and reduce movement variability in chronic stroke survivors. The intervention predominantly influenced the spatial parameters, with modest changes in the temporal aspects, suggesting that enhanced force production and control primarily affect step execution while preserving temporal gait patterns. Full article

Background and Objectives: Pilates-based core stabilization training has garnered increasing attention for its potential to improve deep muscle activation and enhance spinal stability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Pilates-based core stabilization training on deep stabilizing muscles using rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI). Materials and Methods: A total of 57 healthy adults aged 20 to 29 years were recruited and randomly allocated to either an experimental group (n = 29) or a control group (n = 28). Participants in the experimental group engaged in Pilates-based core stabilization training three times per week for six weeks, while the control group performed aerobic exercises. The pre- and post-intervention assessments included measurements of muscle thickness, contraction timing, and contraction ratios of the transverse abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), and external oblique (EO) muscles, evaluated using RUSI. Results: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in TrA and IO thickness (p < 0.05), contraction timing (p < 0.05), and contraction ratios (p < 0.05) compared to the control group. The EO muscle also showed significant, albeit less pronounced, enhancements in thickness and contraction ratios. Conclusions: Pilates-based core stabilization training significantly improves core muscle function, including muscle thickness, contraction timing, and contraction ratios. These findings support the inclusion of Pilates exercises in clinical protocols aimed at enhancing core stability. Full article

Objective: Upper crossed syndrome (UCS) is an abnormal upper extremity movement pattern characterized by muscle tightness in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, coupled with weakness in opposing muscle groups. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Pilates training combined with fascial massage as an intervention in office workers with UCS. Methods: 34 subjects were recruited and randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 17) and a control group (n = 17). The control group underwent 12 weeks of Pilates training, and the experimental group received 12 weeks of Pilates training combined with fascial massage. Body posture was assessed using the forward head angle (FHA) and forward shoulder angle (FSA), joint mobility was evaluated using cervical spine range of motion (ROM), muscle activity was assessed using surface electromyography (sEMG), and quality of life was evaluated using pain level (VAS) and cervical spine dysfunction index (NDI). Results: After 12 weeks of intervention, the FHA, FSA, VAS, and NDI of the experimental group were significantly lower than those of the pre-intervention group (p < 0.05) and significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.05); the extension and left–right rotation cervical spine ROM of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the pre-intervention group (p < 0.05) and significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05); and sEMG indexes (mean power frequency and median frequency) of the upper trapezius and the pectoralis major in the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the pre-intervention group (p < 0.05) and significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Compared with Pilates training alone, Pilates training combined with fascial massage demonstrated a more significant effect in improving muscle activation, body posture, and pain and enhancing the quality of life for patients with UCS. Full article

This study aimed to compare the effects of Pilates (PIL) and whole-body high-intensity interval training (WBHIIT) on the spinal curvature of sedentary women. After being invited, 26 sedentary women aged between 20 and 54 voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. The sample was obtained through convenience sampling, and the participants chose either PIL or WBHIIT, which resulted in 13 participants in each group. Spinal posture was assessed pre- and post-intervention through videogrammetry during standing and walking. Markers were placed on the back, and the volunteers were instructed to remain in a standing position on a stationary treadmill for ten seconds. Subsequently, the treadmill was activated at a speed of 5 km/h. After one minute of walking, a complete gait cycle was recorded for analysis. The results showed no significant changes in spinal angles in static position between groups. However, in the walking position, there was a large-magnitude increase in the spinal range of motion (ROM) post-intervention (PIL Lumbar d = 1.8; PIL Thoracic d = 2.9; WBHIIT Lumbar d = 1.0; WBHIIT Thoracic d = 3.5) within groups in the sagittal plane. The adaptations promoted by these interventions in spinal ROM are important for reducing the risks of spinal stiffness and pain due to sedentary behaviour. Full article

This study compared the effects of Mat Pilates training on cardiovascular risk markers in postmenopausal women with single or multiple cardiometabolic conditions. Forty-four women were divided into single-condition (SINGLE; n = 20) and multiple-condition (MULTI; n = 24) groups. Both groups completed Mat Pilates three times per week for 12 weeks. Measurements of resting blood pressure, body composition, dietary intake, and blood markers were taken before and after the intervention. A Generalized Estimating Equation was used for hypothesis testing. MULTI presented higher body mass, BMI, fat mass, and waist circumference. Systolic blood pressure decreased more in SINGLE (−13 ± 15 mmHg) than in MULTI (−3 ± 16 mmHg, p interaction = 0.016 with diastolic reductions in both groups (SINGLE: −9 ± 12 mmHg; MULTI: −2 ± 11 mmHg, p interaction = 0.053). Triglycerides decreased only in SINGLE (−40 ± 98 mg/dL vs. +31 ± 70 mg/dL in MULTI, p interaction = 0.006), while no significant changes were observed in cholesterol levels. Adiponectin levels decreased in both groups (SINGLE: −1.5 ± 16.3; MULTI: −9.3 ± 12.4 vs. µg/dL, p time = 0.015). Glycated hemoglobin levels decreased over time in both groups (−0.3 ± 0.5% in SINGLE, −0.5 ± 0.6% in MULTI, p time < 0.001), with no significant changes in blood glucose. These findings suggest that Mat Pilates may be more effective in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors in women with a single condition compared to those with multiple conditions. Full article

This study investigated the impacts of online and face-to-face Mat Pilates training in adults with persistent symptoms of long COVID on health outcomes. Forty-nine patients (52 ± 5.85 yr.) diagnosed with long COVID related to fatigue symptoms were randomly included in three groups: online Mat Pilates training (n = 16), face-to-face Mat Pilates training (n = 15), and a control group (n = 18) without training. Mat Pilates training was conducted three times a week for 12 weeks. Fatigue, functional capacity, anthropometrics, body composition, and cardiometabolic markers were assessed before and after the interventions. Two-factor Generalized Estimating Equation analyses identified significant differences with Bonferroni post hoc testing (p < 0.05). After the intervention, only the face-to-face Mat Pilates training group had an improved total, physical and mental fatigue, trunk isometric strength, upper limb muscle endurance strength, and aerobic capacity (p < 0.05). No changes were found in fat mass, muscle mass, free fat mass, % of fat, body mass, body mass index, or waist and hip circumferences. No significant changes were observed in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, or blood pressure (p > 0.05). Our results highlight the potential of face-to-face Mat Pilates training as an effective intervention to mitigate persistent symptoms of long COVID related to fatigue and functional capacities. Full article

Young athletes are constantly developing, and their performance reflects this ongoing process. By understanding performance variations and implementing appropriate training strategies, coaches and stakeholders can help young athletes develop their skills and athletic potential, as well as psychological well-being. Volleyball skills, such as explosive strength and serving precision, play a crucial role in determining the outcomes of volleyball matches. In contrast, mental well-being contributes to enhancing psychological performance. This prospective, randomized, parallel-group trial investigates the effectiveness of Pilates for young volleyball players. We investigated whether Pilates improves certain individual volleyball skills (explosive strength and serving precision) and certain psychological aspects (state of mindfulness) in young, male, 12–14-year-old athletes. Participation in this 12-week study involved 40 athletes (PG = 20; CG = 20). The Control Group had regular training and the Pilates Group had regular training plus twenty-four additional Pilates sessions. The Pilates Group showed a significant improvement in the variables under investigation by 4–7% (p < 0.001). Pilates training can improve individual volleyball skills in young male athletes and may also benefit overall psychophysical development. This study suggests that incorporating Pilates into training programs for young volleyball players can be beneficial for individual skill development and potentially overall psychophysical well-being, assuming an important role in the educational development of the young. Full article

To determine the effects of mat Pilates training on blood pressure, inflammatory, and antioxidative markers in hypertensive elderly people, 34 hypertensive subjects aged 60–75 years were randomly divided into a control group (CON; n = 17) and a mat Pilates training group (MP; n = 17). The CON participants conducted normal daily activities and participated in neither organized exercises nor sports training, while those in the MP group received mat Pilates training for 60 min three times/week for 12 weeks. Parameters including blood pressure, cardiovascular function, nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrotic factor-alpha (TNF-α), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malonaldehyde (MDA) were collected at baseline and the end of 12 weeks. The MP group had significantly decreased blood pressure, improved cardiovascular variables, decreased MDA and TNF-α, and increased NO and SOD compared with the CON group and the pre-training period (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these findings demonstrate the positive effects of 12 weeks of mat Pilates training in terms of reducing blood pressure and increasing blood flow related to improvements in anti-inflammatory and antioxidative markers in hypertensive elderly people. Mat Pilates training might be integrated as an alternative therapeutic exercise modality in clinical practice for hypertensive elderly individuals. Full article

Neuropilates is an intervention approach that was developed as a modified version of the Pilates Method to be used for neurological rehabilitation. The main objective of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of regular physiotherapy and occupational therapy rehabilitation in comparison to a combination of traditional rehabilitation with Neuropilates in adults with post-stroke motor disabilities. This was a rater- and analyst-blinded randomized clinical trial with a three-month intervention and a one-month follow up. Participants were randomly allocated to either the experimental group (EG, receiving a combination of conventional therapy and Neuropilates; n = 15) or the control group (CG, receiving solely conventional therapy; n = 15). Once adjusted for baseline FIM scores, the results showed significant differences favoring the EG in daily functioning (FIM), static balance (FRT), right-hand manual dexterity (NHPT) and right-upper limb coordination (BBT). Satisfaction with the received treatment as measured with the CSQ-8 was significantly higher for the EG. In conclusion, the incorporation of Neuropilates, facilitated by a single experienced therapist, can be a valuable complement to conventional physical and occupational therapy. However, Neuropilates-based interventions should be supervised and tailored to each individual by a professional specifically trained in the method. Full article

Core stability training is crucial for competitive athletes, individuals who want to improve their health and physical performance, and those undergoing clinical rehabilitation. This study compared the ultrasound (US) muscle thickness of the abdominals and lumbar multifidus (LM) muscles between seven popular trunk stability exercises performed using hollowing and bracing maneuvers. Forty-four healthy young adults, aged between 21 and 32 years, performed a plank, bird dog, beast crawl, dead bug, Pilates tap, bridge, and side planks using the bracing and the hollowing maneuver. The thickness of the transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), and LM muscles was measured simultaneously using two ultrasound machines. Analysis of variance designs indicated that during hollowing, the bird dog and side plank exercises resulted in the greatest increase in the muscle’s relative thickness overall. The relative thickness of all muscles was significantly greater (p < 0.001) during hollowing (22.7 ± 7.80 to 106 ± 24.5% of rest) compared to bracing (18.7 ± 7.40 to 87.1 ± 20.9% of rest). The TrA showed the greatest increase in thickness (p < 0.001) compared to the IO and LM. Additionally, the IO had a greater increase in thickness (p < 0.001) than the LM. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the bird dog and side plank exercises, when performed with hollowing, showed the most significant total muscle thickness increase. Notably, the hollowing maneuver enhances the thickness of the TrA, IO, and LM muscles more than the bracing maneuver. This contributes to the discussion on optimal strategies for dynamic core stabilization. Full article

This study aimed to compare the effects of Zumba and Pilates training on functional performance, mood, and health-related quality of life in postmenopausal women. Fifty-four postmenopausal women, aged 55–65, were randomly allocated to a control group (CG), a Pilates group (PG), or a Zumba group (ZG). Functional performance factors, in terms of walking speed, lower body muscle strength, dynamic balance, and functional mobility, as well as mood and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), were assessed before and after the intervention period. As results, both training modalities significantly improved the walking speed (PG (p < 0.001)/ZG (p < 0.001)), strength (PG (p < 0.001)/ZG (p < 0.05)), dynamic balance (PG (p < 0.001)/ZG (p < 0.001)), and functional mobility (PG (p < 0.001)/ZG (p < 0.001)), as well as mood (PG (p < 0.01)/ZG (p < 0.001)). Additionally, both intervention programs significantly improved their HRQol [physical function (PG (p < 0.001)/ZG (p < 0.001)) domain and SF36 total scores (PG (p < 0.01)/ZG (p < 0.001))] with better performance following Zumba training. However, the domains of social function (p < 0.001), mental health (p < 0.001), and role limitation due to emotional problems (p < 0.05) significantly enhanced only for the ZG. In conclusion, Pilates or Zumba training appears to be an ideal exercise for promoting functional performance, mood, and HRQoL in postmenopausal women. However, Zumba training seems to be more effective, resulting in optimal scores. Full article

Despite its positive impact on physical and mental well-being, adults may refrain from performing regular physical activity, due to inadequate time, accessibility, or funds. Yet remote platforms could overcome such obstacles and increase participation. This study evaluated the effectiveness of remote-synchronous group-Pilates classes compared to in-studio classes in healthy sedentary women. In a randomized controlled design, 40 women, aged 20–45, were assigned to a Zoom or studio group-Pilates training. The intervention included twice-weekly 45 min sessions over an eight-week period. Attendance (adherence) was recorded, and the participants completed physical motor tests (plank, curl-up, stork, push-up, and V-sit and reach), Profile of Mood State Surveys, and Nordic Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaires. Evaluations were performed at baseline, mid-intervention (4 weeks), and post intervention (8 weeks). Adherence to training was high in the Zoom and studio groups (80% and 74%, respectively). Improvements in physical motor tests were seen in both groups following the Pilates interventions, thereby indicating the effectiveness of group-Pilates Zoom training. In conclusion, remote online physical activity such as Pilates offers a good alternative to in-studio trainings, as a means for improving physical fitness and promoting a healthy lifestyle in adults, by offering a more accessible and less timely alternative to in-studio physical activity programs. Full article