Eight-week traditional mat Pilates training-program effects on adult fitness characteristics.
We investigated responses of adult, novice practitioners (n = 9) to an 8-week traditional mat Pilates program (P) that met 1 hr/day three times/week. Classes consisted primarily of beginner and intermediate level exercises. Compared to an active control group (C; n = 13) that showed no improvements, those in P significantly (p < .05) improved relative body fat (-1.2% BF), sit-and-reach (+7.5 cm), shoulder reach (+6.9 cm), curl-up (+14 reps), and low back extension (+7 reps) scores, as well as circumferences at the waist (-2.7 cm), chest (-1.7 cm), and arm (-0.5 cm). Baseline differences were noted only for curl-ups and low back extensions, with P being lower than C Body composition, muscular endurance, and flexibility significantly improved after 8 weeks of traditional mat Pilates.
Wellness Center, University of Miami, USA.
Kate
K
Rogers
Ann L
AL
Gibson
D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000378:metabolism; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001823:Body Composition / Q000502:physiology*; D026241:Exercise Movement Techniques; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D018583:Pliability / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors; D055815:Young Adult