Effects of Pure Barre Exercise on Urinary Incontinence Symptoms: A Prospective Observational Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Importance Pure Barre is a form of physical exercise using low-impact, high-intensity, pulsatile isometric movements that may serve as a treatment option for urinary incontinence. Objective The objective of this study was to measure the effects of the Pure Barre workout on urinary incontinence symptoms and sexual function. Study Design This was a prospective observational study of new, female Pure Barre clients with urinary incontinence. Eligible participants completed 3 validated questionnaires at baseline and at follow-up after 10 Pure Barre classes within 2 months. Questionnaires included the Michigan Incontinence Symptoms Index (M-ISI), the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20, and the Female Sexual Function Index-6. Matched differences in domain questionnaire scores between baseline and follow-up were analyzed. Results All questionnaire domains significantly improved for all 25 participants after 10 Pure Barre classes. Median M-ISI severity domain scores decreased from 13 (interquartile range, 9–19) at baseline to 7 at follow-up (interquartile range, 3–10; P < 0.0001). Mean ± SD M-ISI urgency urinary incontinence domain scores decreased from 6.40 ± 3.06 to 2.96 ± 2.13 (P < 0.0001). Mean ± SD M-ISI stress urinary incontinence scores decreased from 5.24 ± 2.71 to 2.48 ± 1.58 (P < 0.0001). Mean ± SD Urinary Distress Inventory domain scores decreased from 42.17 ± 17.15 to 29.67 ± 13.73 (P < 0.0001). Matched rank sum analysis indicated increasing Female Sexual Function Index-6 scores from baseline to follow-up (P = 0.0022). Conclusion The Pure Barre workout may be an enjoyable, conservative management option that improves symptoms of urinary incontinence and sexual function.