The effects of Pilates training on flexibility and body composition: an observational study.
OBJECTIVE
To assess claims regarding the effects of Pilates training on flexibility, body composition, and health status.


METHODS
An observational prospective study.


METHODS
A community athletic club.


METHODS
A sample of 47 adults (45 women, 2 men) who presented for Pilates training.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
Fingertip-to-floor distance, truncal lean body mass by bioelectric impedance, health status by questionnaire and visual analog scale were assessed at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 months (+/-1 wk).


RESULTS
Thirty-two of 47 enrolled subjects met the protocol requirements of missing no more than 1 weekly 1-hour session Pilates mat class during each 2-month period. Investigators were blinded to measurements from previous time points. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) fingertip-to-floor distance improved from baseline by 3.4 cm (1.3-5.7 cm), 3.3 cm (0.3- 7.8 cm), and 4.3 cm (1.5-7.6 cm) at 2, 4, and 6 months, respectively (paired nonparametric analysis, all P<.01). There were no statistically significant changes in truncal lean body mass, height, weight, or other body composition parameters. Self-assessment of health also did not change in a statistically significant manner from its baseline median (IQR) value of 77 mm (69-85 mm).


CONCLUSIONS
Pilates training may result in improved flexibility. However, its effects on body composition, health status, and posture are more limited and may be difficult to establish. Further study might involve larger sample sizes, comparison with an appropriate control group, and assessment of motor unit recruitment as well as strength of truncal stabilizers.
Segal
Neil A
NA
Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City 52242, USA. neil-segal@uiowa.edu
Hein
Jane
J
Basford
Jeffrey R
JR
D000328:Adult; D001823:Body Composition / Q000502:physiology*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D018583:Pliability; D011446:Prospective Studies