A Systematic Review of the Effects of Pilates Method of Exercise in Healthy People

Abstract

Research studies published from inception to May 7, 2011 were selected for evaluation. Two reviewers independently applied the inclusion criteria to selected potential studies. Studies were included if they were published in a peer-reviewed journal, written in the English language, conducted as a randomized controlled trial (RCT) or quasi-RCT in healthy people, had an inactive and/or exercise control group(s), included key study outcomes, and used the PME as the study intervention in at least 1 study arm.Data Extraction: Two reviewers independently extracted data (study, design, subjects, intervention, key outcomes results), applied the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale to assess the method quality of selected studies, and determined the strength of the evidence using the best evidence synthesis grading system. Data Synthesis: Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. PEDro scale values ranged from 3 to 7 (mean, 4.1), indicating a low level of scientific rigor. The outcomes studied most often were flexibility, muscular endurance, strength, and postural alignment. The PME appears to be effective in improving flexibility (strong evidence), dynamic balance (strong evidence), and muscular endurance (moderate evidence) in healthy people.Conclusions: There was strong evidence to support the use of the PME at least to the end of training to improve flexibility and dynamic balance and moderate evidence to enhance muscular endurance. Future RCTs should focus on the components of blinding, concealed allocation, subject adherence, intentionto-treat analysis, and follow-up designs.

Efeitos de 20 sessões do método Pilates no alinhamento postural e flexibilidade de mulheres jovens: estudo piloto

“…It was indeed verified that Pilates generated gain in the flexibility and muscle strength of ballet dancers 10 . However, a systematic review 11 demonstrated the scarcity of evidence on the effectiveness of Pilates over muscle resistance, flexibility, and strength. In regards to postural alignment, Cruz-Ferreira et al 11 , presented contradictory results and no evidence of the effects of the Pilates method.…”

Fatores motivacionais de idosos praticantes do método Pilates

“…Dessa forma, o MP parece atuar de forma pontual nas principais demandas inerentes ao envelhecimento, tornando-se uma forte ferramenta de prescrição de exercício para idosos e indivíduos que buscam uma prática de atividade física regular diferenciada (32) . Os achados deste estudo e a identificação dos fatores motivacionais para a prática de atividade física de idosos contribuem na elaboração de ferramentas que atendam às expectativas deste público e auxilie na manutenção em longo prazo desses indivíduos de forma ativa.…”

Influence of Physical Culture Innovative Means on Functional State of Second Maturity Women

“…A number of scientists found "Pilates" system's positive influence on physical fitness of second mature and elderly women: increase of flexibility, strength, power endurance and coordination indicators [23,26,27].…”