Effects of tai chi, ba duan jin, and walking on the mental health status of urban older people living alone: the mediating role of social participation and the moderating role of the exercise environment.

With the global trend of aging, lacking of interpersonal communication and spiritual support and companionship have had a great impact on the mental health of older people living alone. This study examines the multifaceted impacts of engaging in tai chi, ba duan jin, and walking on the mental wellbeing of older people residing alone in urban areas. Additionally, this research aims to explore the association between tai chi, ba duan jin, and walking, and the mental health status of urban older people living alone, by considering the mediating influence of social participation and the moderating influence of the exercise environment. To do so, 1,027 older people living alone in six Chinese cities were investigated using the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Geriatric Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Social Participation Indicator System Scale, and the Exercise Environment Scale. SPSS 25.0 was utilized for conducting mathematical statistical analysis, specifically for doing linear regression analysis. Additionally, AMOS was employed to develop the study model. We found that a significant negative correlation between tai chi, ba duan jin, and walking and mental health status; among these, tai chi had the greatest impact on the mental health status of urban older people living alone. Social participation mediated the relationship between tai chi, ba duan jin, walking, and mental health status, and the exercise environment had a moderating effect on this relationship. The findings of this study indicate that tai chi, ba duan jin, and walking have a positive impact on the mental health of urban older people living alone, which can be influenced by the mediating efficacy of social participation and the moderating effect of the exercise environment.

Response of Lipid Profile to Laser Acupuncture along with Diet and Pilates Exercise in Obese Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Obesity-induced dyslipidemia is one of the main factors contributing to morbidity and mortality associated with metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Objectives: This research aimed to assess the effect of adding laser acupuncture therapy (LAT) to a Pilates exercise program (PEP) and low-calorie diet protocol (LCDP) on blood lipids among 60 obese women with SLE. Methods: Study participants were women aged between 23 and 49 years, randomly assigned to one of two groups, A or B, each comprising 30 women. In addition to adherence to the LCDP, both groups were supervised five times weekly during 50-minute PEP sessions. Group A also received LAT three times weekly, with each session lasting 2 minutes on selected acupoints. After the 12-week intervention, plasma total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein were assessed. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvement in the aforementioned lipids after the 12-week intervention. A comparison between the post-intervention values of the lipids in the groups revealed a significant improvement favoring group A (the group that received LAT). Conclusion: Adding a 12-week LAT regimen to PEP and LCDP significantly improved lipid profiles among 60 obese women with SLE.

Effect of the pilates method on pain and quality of life in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: More than two-thirds of pregnant women experience low back pain during pregnancy. This condition increases with advancing pregnancy, interfering with work, daily activities and sleep. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of the Pilates method in comparison to prenatal care on the control of lower back pain in pregnant women. SEARCH METHODS: Electronic searches were carried out with no language or year of publication restriction in the databases Medline via Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL, LILACS, PEDro, and SPORTDiscus on 20 March 2021. The keywords "Pilates" and "Pregnancy" were applied and the search strategies, adapted to each databank. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized clinical trials with pregnant women with muscle pain symptoms and Pilates as an intervention method in comparison to conventional prenatal care were considered. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy. The critical evaluation was done using the Risk of Bias tool assess the quality and GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence. We conducted a meta-analysis for the main outcome "pain". RESULTS: through our searches, 687 papers were identified, but only two fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Only two studies compared Pilates with a control group without physical exercise for pain in the short term. In the meta-analysis, there was a significant difference for pain in the comparison between the Pilates group and the control group without exercise; the mean difference (MD) was -23.09 (95% CI), from -31.07 to -15.10, p = 0.001, for 65 individuals (33 in the Pilates group and 32 in the conventional group). Limitation found was the lack of blinding of therapists and participants and the small sample size of individual studies. In addition, no adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSION: There is moderate-quality evidence that Pilates exercise may reduce pregnancy-related low-back pain more than usual prenatal or no exercise. Prospero registration number CRD42021223243.

Effects of Pilates in children and adolescents - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pilates can be performed by children as a form of exercise to promote healthy growth and development. The increasing use of Pilates as a type of exercise for children or as an adjunct tool in pediatric rehabilitation should be supported by evidence of its benefits. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effects of Pilates as an exercise prescription for children and adolescents. METHODS: Five electronic databases were searched to identify trials (randomized controlled clinical trials or quasi-experimental studies) with a population of children or adolescents in which Pilates (mat or equipment) was performed as a form of exercise. Studies that investigated outcomes related to health and physical performance was analyzed. Individual trial effects were extracted and pooled for meta-analysis whenever possible. To evaluate the external and internal validity of the studies, we assessed their risk of bias. RESULTS: Fifteen studies (from 945 records), including 1235 participants, met the eligibility criteria, and were included. The reported outcomes were heterogeneous, so only the effect on flexibility could be included in the meta-analysis (n = 4 studies). A significant positive trend toward improved flexibility for the control group compared with the Pilates group was found (Std. mean difference, 0.54; 95%CI: 0,18, 0.91; p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Few studies have assessed the effect of Pilates on children and adolescents. The lack of appropriate methodological descriptions/controls made it impossible to determine if all of the included studies were of good quality.

Effects of Pilates exercises on cardiorespiratory fitness: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest that Pilates improves cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). However, there is a lack of systematic review studies on this topic. Our aim was to verify the effects of Pilates exercises on CRF in healthy adults. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in: PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, LILACS, and PEDro (search on January 12, 2023). Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. A meta-analysis was performed using the standardized mean difference (SMD). The quality of evidence was rated by the GRADE system. RESULTS: In total, 12 RCTs were eligible (569 participants). Only three studies presented high methodological quality. Very low to low quality evidence showed that: a) Pilates was superior to control groups (SMD = 0.96 [CI95% 0.39 to 1.54] n = 457, studies = 12), even when only high methodological quality studies were included (SMD = 1.14 [CI95% 0.25 to 2.04] n = 129, studies = 3); b) to be effective, Pilates needed to be performed for ≥1440 min; c) the effects were significant regardless of the form of Pilates application (mat or equipment); d) Pilates was not different from other exercises regarding the effects on CRF. CONCLUSION: Pilates had a large effect on CRF, provided that it was administered for at least 1440 min (equivalent to 2x-week for three months or 3x-week for two months). However, due to the low quality of the evidence, these results should be interpreted with caution.

The effects of clinical pilates training on disease-specific indices, core stability, and balance in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of clinical Pilates training on disease-specific indices, core stability, and balance in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. METHODS: AS patients were randomly assigned to either the Pilates group (PG) or control group (CG). The PG participated in Pilates training 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Patients in the CG were instructed to follow a home exercise program for 8 weeks. Assessments were performed before and after the interventions. BASDAI, BASFI, BASMI, and the AS Quality of Life (ASqOL) questionnaire were used were used to evaluate disease activity, functionality spinal mobility and quality of life respectively. Static core endurance was assessed with trunk flexor, extensor endurance, and lateral bridge tests, while dynamic core endurance was assessed using modified sit-up test. Balance was evaluated with bilateral and unilateral stance static postural stability (PS), bilateral stance dynamic PS and limits of stability (LOS) tests using the Biodex Balance System. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients in the PG and 21 patients in the CG completed the study. PG showed statistically significant improvements in BASDAI, BASFI, BASMI, and ASQoL scores, all core endurance tests, and dynamic PS and LOS results. The CG demonstrated significant improvement only in flexor endurance and LOS results. Post-intervention BASDAI, BASMI, and all core endurance tests were significantly better in the PG than in the CG (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Pilates training has positive effects on disease activity and functional capacity, spinal mobility, core endurance, balance, and quality of life in AS patients. GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT04292028.

Impact of Pilates mat-based exercises on knee kinematics during running.

INTRODUCTION: Core strengthening, balance, and flexibility programs such as Pilates have been advocated to positively impact running mechanics and prevent lower extremity injuries. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of a 12-week mat-based Pilates exercise program on dynamic knee valgus alignment in runners. METHODS: Thirty-four novice runners, including young male and female adults performed a running protocol at baseline. The protocol consisted of the participants running on a treadmill at a constant five miles per hour (mph) for 4 min. Post-examination, participants were randomly assigned to a Pilates or control group (n = 16 and n = 18, respectively). A certified Pilates instructor gave the Pilates group a 12-week home-based program. To ensure participants in the Pilates group performed exercises correctly, the Pilates instructor conducted the first session, and provided feedback to each participant. Participants in both groups performed the same running testing protocol every four weeks. Knee valgus was measured as the medial displacement of the knee joint center during the running stance phase. Repeated measures Analysis of Variance (RepANOVA) was calculated at baseline and 4-, 8-, and 12-weeks post examinations to compare knee valgus during running. RESULTS: Although a reduction in dynamic knee valgus was observed within the Pilates group, the RepANOVA analysis revealed this change was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Pilates mat-based exercises may improve knee valgus after 12 weeks but a larger sample size, longer intervention duration, or a supervised program should be considered for future research to evaluate its effectiveness.

A resistência do fluxo inspiratório modifica a intensidade de uma sessão de pilates? / Does inspiratory flow resistance modify the intensity of a pilates session?

INTRODUÇÃO: As evidências sobre a melhora da capacidade funcional utilizando o Método Pilates não são contundentes. Uma possibilidade de melhorar o efeito de uma sessão de Pilates sobre a capacidade cardiorrespiratória de seus praticantes é utilizar a resistência de fluxo inspiratório (RFI) de forma concomitante. Esse efeito pode ser visualizado através da determinação do limiar glicêmico (LG), técnica utilizada como marcador de intensidade do exercício. OBJETIVO: Testar a hipótese de que a utilização de RFI em uma sessão de pilates antecipa o LG. MÉTODOS: Estudo crossover de corte transversal. Foram avaliados 26 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, sendo 10 do sexo masculino, sadios e com idade entre 20 e 40 anos. Os voluntários foram randomizados para dois protocolos: Protocolo RFI ­ 11 movimentos do Método Pilates com RFI utilizando 20% da pressão inspiratória máxima; e Protocolo sem RFI (SRFI) ­ 11 movimentos do Método Pilates sem RFI. Os dois protocolos foram realizados no mesmo dia, sendo um pela manhã e outro à tarde, conforme randomização feita por sorteio aleatório simples. No repouso e ao final de cada movimento coletas de sangue capilar foram realizadas para dosagem da glicemia e construção da curva glicêmica. O LG foi determinado no menor ponto da curva. RESULTADOS: O LG foi antecipado no protocolo que utilizou RFI, ou seja, no protocolo com RFI o LG foi visualizado no sexto exercício, enquanto no protocolo SRFI o LG foi visualizado no nono exercício (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: A RFI antecipou o LG, o que sugere que a RFI aumenta a intensidade de uma sessão de pilates. Isso aventa a hipótese de que a RFI pode proporcionar a médio e longo prazo benefícios adicionais aos praticantes do Método Pilates.

INTRODUCTION: The evidence on the improvement of functional capacity using the Pilates Method is not conclusive. One possibility to improve the effect of a Pilates session on the cardiorespiratory capacity of its practitioners is to use the inspiratory flow resistance (IFR) concomitantly. This effect can be visualized by determining the glycemic threshold (GT), a technique used as an exercise intensity marker. OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that the use of IFR in a Pilates session anticipates GT. METHODS: Cross-sectional crossover study. A total of 26 individuals of both genders were evaluated, 10 of whom were male, healthy, and aged between 20 and 40 years. The volunteers were randomized to two protocols: Protocol IFR - Eleven movements of the Pilates method with IFR using 20% of the maximum inspiratory pressure, and Protocol no IFR (NIFR) - Eleven movements of the Pilates method without IFR. The two protocols were performed on the same day, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon, according to randomization by simple random draw. At rest and at the end of each movement, capillary blood collections were performed to measure blood glucose and construct the glycemic curve. GT was determined at the smallest point on the curve. RESULTS: The GT was anticipated in the protocol that used IFR; that is, in the protocol with IFR, the GT was visualized in the sixth exercise, while in the NIFR protocol, the GT was visualized in the ninth exercise (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: IFR anticipated GT, which suggests that IFR increases the intensity of a Pilates session. This suggests the hypothesis that IFR can provide additional medium and long-term benefits to Pilates method practitioners.

Mat Pilates and belly dance: Effects on patient-reported outcomes among breast cancer survivors receiving hormone therapy and adherence to exercise.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer treatment leads to several side effects. Exercise can help to reduce these side effects. However, it is unknown whether a mat Pilates or a belly dance intervention can improve the patient-reported outcomes of these women. OBJECTIVE: Examine the effects of a 16-week exercise intervention (mat Pilates or belly dance) on patient reported outcomes (PROs) among breast cancer survivors, at 16 weeks, six months, and 12 months; and investigate sociodemographic and clinical predictors of intervention adherence. METHODS: Seventy-four breast cancer survivors who were receiving hormone therapy were randomly allocated into mat Pilates (n = 25), belly dance (n = 25) or control group (educational sessions) (n = 24). Mat Pilates and belly dance groups received a 16-week intervention, delivered three days a week and 60 min a session. The control group received three education sessions and continue usual care. The patient reported outcomes assessed were depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), optimism (Life Orientation Test), fatigue (FACT-F), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and pain (VAS), clinical and sociodemographic characteristics, and habitual physical activity (IPAQ short). RESULTS: All three groups showed a significant improvement in fatigue, and this effect was maintained during follow-up. No significant effects were found for depressive symptoms, optimism, stress, or pain. A history of exercise prior to breast cancer and be inactive after diagnosis were significant predictors of adherence to interventions. CONCLUSION: Mat Pilates, belly dance and a few educational sessions can be effective in improving fatigue after 16 weeks of intervention. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03194997).

Processos de reflexividade dos psicólogos do esporte e coaches: um estudo fenomenológico / Reflexivity processes of sport psychologists and coaches: a phenomenological study / Procesos de reflexividad de psicólogos del deporte y coaches: un estudio fenomenológico

O objetivo desta pesquisa é identificar e compreender fenomenologicamente, por meio de relato de Psicólogos de Esporte (PE) e de Coaches, em sua vivência prática, como ocorrem os processos reflexivos em sua atuação, conforme apreendidos a partir de relatos de experiências. O método de investigação escolhido foi a fenomenologia, pois oferece os recursos necessários para tal mergulho junto à experiência reflexiva. A amostra intencional foi delineada por PE e Coaches (profissionais de Educação Física que recorrem ao Coaching) em atividade em esportes de alto rendimento, que tenham atuado ou estejam atuando em modalidades esportivas coletivas e/ou individuais. Realizaram-se nove entrevistas (cinco com PE, quatro com Coaches). O acesso ao objeto desse estudo se deu por meio de entrevistas em profundidade e semiestruturadas, orientadas pela escuta suspensiva. As questões disparadoras foram formuladas com base no Procedimento Estruturado de Reflexão adaptado. Para análise das entrevistas, realizou-se uma síntese de cada relato, seguindo-se de cruzamento intencional. Como resultados, percebeu-se que PE e Coaches trazem algumas similaridades no que se refere aos modos de refletir sobre sua prática. No entanto, as experiências que eles fazem desses processos reflexivos é que podem tomar rumos distintos. Os(as) PE amparam-se na regulamentação da profissão e resguardam-se em seus apontamentos, trazendo suas experiências e reflexões sobre os processos vividos. Os(as) Coaches trazem em suas explanações um trabalho coerente, organizado e compatível com o método do Coaching. Problematizar os processos reflexivos desses profissionais permite diferenciar qualitativa e eticamente suas atuações, possibilitando o fomento multiprofissional no esporte.(AU)

The aim of this study consists in phenomenologically identifying and understanding, by the report of Sport Psychologists (SP) and coaches, in their practical experience, how would be the reflexive processes that take place in their performance, as learned from reports of their experiences. The research method chosen was phenomenology, since it offers the necessary resources for such a dive along with the reflective experience. The intentional sample was outlined by SP and coaches (Physical Education professionals who use coaching) active in high performance sports, who have or are working in collective and/or individual sports. Nine interviews were conducted (five with SP, four with coaches). Access to the object of this study took place by in-depth and semi-structured interviews, guided by suspensive listening. The triggering questions were formulated based on the adapted Structured Reflection Procedure. For the analysis of the interviews, a synthesis of each report was carried out, followed by the intentional crossing. As results, it was noticed that SP and coaches bring some similarities regarding the ways of reflecting on their practice. However, their experiences of these reflective processes are that they can take different directions. The SP are based on the regulation of the profession and guard themselves in their notes, bringing their experiences and reflections on the processes experienced. Coaches bring in their explanations a coherent, organized, and compatible work with the coaching method. Problematizing the reflective processes of these professionals allows to differentiate their actuation qualitatively and ethically, making the multiprofessional phenomenon in sport possible.(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio consiste en identificar y comprender fenomenológicamente, a partir de la experiencia práctica de psicólogos del deporte (PD) y coaches, cómo serían los procesos reflexivos que se llevan a cabo en su rendimiento, tal y como se desprende de los informes de experiencias. El método de investigación elegido fue la fenomenología, ya que ofrece los recursos necesarios junto con la experiencia. La muestra intencional fue delineada por PD y coaches (profesionales de la educación física que utilizan el coaching) activos en deportes de alto rendimiento, que tienen o están trabajando en deportes colectivos e/o individuales. Se realizaron nueve entrevistas (cinco con PD, cuatro con coaches). El acceso al objeto de este estudio fue entrevistas en profundidad y semiestructuradas, guiadas por escuchas suspensivas. Las preguntas se formularon desde el procedimiento de reflexión estructurado adaptado. Para el análisis de las entrevistas, se hizo una síntesis de cada informe, seguida del cruce intencional. Como resultados, se notó que los PD y coaches tienen algunas similitudes con respecto a las formas de reflexionar sobre su práctica. Sin embargo, las experiencias que hacen de estos procesos pueden tomar diferentes direcciones. Los(las) PD se basan en la regulación de la profesión y se protegen en sus notas, aportando sus experiencias y reflexiones sobre los procesos vividos. Los(las) coaches plantean en sus explicaciones un trabajo coherente, organizado y compatible con el método de Coaching. Problematizar los procesos reflexivos de estos profesionales permite diferenciar sus acciones de manera cualitativa y ética, además de posibilitar la promoción multiprofesional en el deporte.(AU)

Comparison of Mat Pilates training-induced changes on climateric symptoms in hypertensive and normotensive postmenopausal women.

INTRODUCTION: Physical exercise has been used to improve the physiological, metabolic and psychological factors of women. OBJECTIVE: the aim of this study was to compare the 12-week Mat Pilates training-induced effect on climacteric symptoms in hypertensive and normotensive, non-obese postmenopausal women. METHODS: Forty-seven irregularly active, non-obese postmenopausal women participated in the study: 24 normotensive (58 ± 4 years) and 23 hypertensive (58 ± 4 years). They underwent 36 sessions of Mat Pilates in nonconsecutive days during 12 weeks. Climacteric symptoms were assessed by the Cervantes Scale (CER), Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and Blatt-Kupperman Menopause Index (B-K). The unpaired t-test compared the clinical characteristics between the groups. For the analysis of the questionnaires, the Spearman correlation and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare the means between the groups for non-parametric data. The generalized estimates equation (GEE) was used to compare the groups and time to score the three general and domain questionnaires. The significance level adopted was ɑ = 0.05. RESULTS: No difference in the Mat Pilates training-induced changes were found between normotensive and hypertensive women, but there was a significant reduction in the scores of the B-K and MRS and in the percentage of disappearance of symptoms by the B-K after training in both groups. Regarding the CER, there was a reduction in symptoms in the total value and the psychological, menopause and health domains. CONCLUSION: The presence of hypertension did not change the 12-week Mat Pilates training-induced benefits on the climacteric symptoms of non-obese postmenopausal women.

Chronic neck pain and postural rehabilitation: A literature review.

Chronic Neck Pain is a major disease leading to disability in individuals around the world. Various rehabilitative approaches are being used worldwide to treat neck pain. This literature review highlights efficacy of those techniques used in correcting posture in chronic neck pain. In total 17 articles are included in this review (10 articles on exercises, Pilates 3, global postural re-education (GPR) 1, patient education 2, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation 1). The effects of the techniques were examined on individual outcomes (pain, disability), quality of life (QoL), and psychological aspects and the targeted aspects of physical function (muscle strength, mobility and endurance). Most of the techniques are effective compared to control group and few techniques in combination with other interventions like exercise and education had better improvements in outcomes, few techniques compared to one another found to be equally significant on reducing pain and disability. To date, it was challenging to affirm superiority of one technique over other. Further high quality research is needed to confirm the effect of these techniques with appropriate evaluation methods.

Feasibility of pilates for pregnant women: A randomised trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility and preliminary effects of Pilates exercises in primigravida women. DESIGN: Single-blind randomized controlled feasibility trial. SETTING: Community Pilates classes. PARTICIPANTS: Low-risk pregnant women. INTERVENTIONS: Pregnant women were randomly assigned to Pilates exercises (experimental) group for 6 consecutive weeks or usual antenatal care, the control group. MAIN OUTCOMES: The primary outcome was feasibility of Pilates classes. Secondary outcomes included quality of life, pain, and mobility. RESULTS: 21 women were recruited to the trial. Eleven were randomly allocated to the experimental group and 10 to the control group. Retention of participants was excellent for the Pilates group (100%) compared to 70% in the control group. There were no adverse events. The Pilates group showed greater gains in quality of life on the SF-12 from the pre-test (M = 81.0, SD = 11.8) to the post-test (M = 83.3, SD = 8.52) compared to the control group (pre-test M = 69.78, SD = 15.9) (post-test M = 68.1, SD = 16.05) (Wald Chi-Square = 5.597, p = 0.018). Although the duration of labour was shorter in the Pilates group (Mdn = 215, IQR: 279 min) than usual care (Mdn = 458.5, IQR: 305 min), the difference was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences between groups for pain, mobility, abdominal separation, urinary continence, analgesia, or the mode of birth. CONCLUSIONS: Modified Pilates appears feasible and safe for low-risk pregnant women. Further research is needed in on this topic.

Is the Pilates method efficient to cause changes in the body composition of healthy individuals? A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The Pilates Method has become more popular as an option for physical activity, also among healthy individuals, who seek a better quality of life and also an improve in body composition. This paper is a systematic review of the literature on the effectiveness of Pilates in the body composition of healthy individuals. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was carried out using the PEDro, Cochrane Library, Medline and Pubmed databases; the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied and the final studies were evaluated using the PEDro checklists. To ensure methodological quality, all steps were performed by two examiners and when discrepancies appeared, these were resolved by a third reviewer. RESULTS: Nine studies, published between 2004 and 2019, met the inclusion criteria. Six articles showed some improvement in relation to body composition, such as increased skeletal muscle mass and decrease in body fat mass and of these, when evaluated by the PEDro scale, only one obtained good methodological quality. CONCLUSION: This systematic review shows that the influence of Pilates on the body composition of healthy individuals is still uncertain due to the controversial results and the scarcity of studies with this public. The lack of studies with excellent methodological quality can be considered one of the factors that prevent a statement.

The effects of pilates on posture and physical fitness parameters in 5-6 years old children: A non-randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Inactivity is a public health problem. Physical activity is beneficial at any age, but is even more critical in childhood for healthy development and growth. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this non-randomized controlled study was to investigate the effects of Pilates on posture and physical fitness parameters in 5-6 years old healthy children. METHODS: Four preschool classes were divided into two groups. Five-six years old 66 preschool children were assigned to the Pilates (n = 31) and control (n = 35) groups. The Pilates group received a Pilates program twice a week for 10 weeks. The control group continued their daily routines. Postural assessment was evaluated using the New York Posture Rating Chart test and physical fitness was evaluated with the Eurofit test battery. Children were blinded to assignment. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparisons between groups, and the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test was used for within-group comparisons. RESULTS: In this study, within-group comparisons showed statistically significant improvements in the New York Posture Rating chart test (p < 0.001), Flamingo Balance, Sit and Reach, Standing Broad Jump, 30-Second Sit-Up, Bent Arm Hang, and 20-Meter Shuttle Run test scores (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Pilates has positive effects on physical fitness parameters and postural evaluation in preschool children. This study suggests that Pilates can be an entertaining alternative physical activity in children aged 5-6 years. NUMBER: NCT05210426.

Detraining period of the PILATES method on functional capacity of elderly women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to verify the effects of a 4-week detraining period on the functional capacity of elderly women with type-2 diabetes (T2D) after 12 weeks of a PILATES training program. METHODS: Twenty-two individuals with T2D were randomly allocated into two groups: CONTROL (n = 11; 67.5 ± 6.3 years; 154.7 ± 6.1 cm; 73.5 ± 6.1 kg; calorie intake: 1487.5 ± 360.6 kcal/day) and PILATES (n = 11; 65.5 ± 5.5 years; 155.0 ± 4.5 cm; 66.2 ± 5.4 kg; calorie intake: 1289.3 ± 385.0 kcal/day). The PILATES group participated at a 12-week PILATES program at moderate intensity, 3x/week with each session lasting 60-min. The functional capacity was evaluated in the baseline (PRE), after 12-weeks (POST) and 4-week detraining period (4W_DT). The general index of functional capacity (GIFC) was calculated for all participants. RESULTS: In the PILATES group there was a reduction in performance (increased test time) for the GIFC after 4W_DT in relation to POST (p < 0.05), however, GIFC showing maintenance of performance gain in relation to the PRE (p > 0.05) (PRE: 36.0 ± 5.5 s vs. POST: 27.2 ± 4.0 s vs. 4W_DT: 29.0 ± 4.2 s). The CONTROL group had worse performance than the GIFC POST (35.3 ± 4.6 s) and 4W_DT (35.4 ± 4.6 s) when compared to the PILATES group (F = 106.967; np2 = 0.842; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: A period of 4W_DT was not able to reduce the functional gains of elderly women with T2D after 12 weeks of PILATES training. These results have a practical application for training professionals, enabling better control and planning of training interruptions on the PILATES method for elderly women with T2D.

Pilates training reduces blood pressure in older women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: The study investigated the effect of 12 weeks of pilates training on the hemodynamic responses of older women with type-2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS: 22 individuals with T2D were randomly allocated into two groups: CONTROL (n = 11; 67.5 ± 6.3 years; 154.7 ± 6.1 cm; 73.5 ± 6.1 kg; calorie intake: 1487.5 ± 360.6 kcal/day) and PILATES (n = 11; 65.5 ± 5.5 years; 155.0 ± 4.5 cm; 66.2 ± 5.4 kg; calorie intake: 1289.3 ± 385.0 kcal/day). The PILATES group executed a 12-week PILATES training program at moderate intensity, 3x/week with each session lasting 60-min. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), and postprandial blood glucose were assessed at four timepoints: i) baseline; ii) 4th week; iii) 8th week; and iv) 12th week (s) of intervention. Two-way ANOVA for repeated measures and the Pearson's correlation coefficient were adopted. The alpha level was set at 0.05. RESULTS: A time∗group interaction effect was found for SBP (F = 4.206; η2 = 0.17; p = 0.02) and DBP (F = 2.624; η2 = 0.12; p = 0.05) with significant reductions (mmHg) in the 4ths and 8ths in the PILATES (PILATES SBP baseline: 134.9 ± 27.6; 4ths: 112.4 ± 15.7; 8ths: 115.8 ± 18.3; 12ths: 124.3 ± 19.1 vs. CONTROL SBP baseline: 126.5 ± 15.7; 4ths: 126.3 ± 16.2; 8ths: 124.5 ± 13.1; 12ths: 126.3 ± 21.4 | PILATES DBP baseline: 72.9 ± 11.3; 4ths: 65.1 ± 12.2; 8ths: 65.8 ± 12.2; 12ths: 67.6 ± 7.5 vs. CONTROL DBP baseline: 74.6 ± 12.0; 4ths: 73.9 ± 11.5; 8ths: 75.3 ± 11.9; 12ths: 74.5 ± 9.2). CONCLUSION: Four and eight weeks of PILATES training promotes reduction in the SBP and DBP of older women with T2D. The exercises performed in this study were mainly body weight exercises and required a few auxiliary materials, which turns this method of training accessible.

Effect of Eutonia, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates on body posture for pre-adolescent girls: Randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Postural changes frequently occur in pre-adolescent girls, with sedentary lifestyle with reduced physical activity level as one of the risk factors. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Eutonia, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates on body posture in pre-adolescent girls. METHODS: A randomized prospective quantitative clinical trial was conducted. The study included girls aged 10-13 years and compared the effects of Eutonia, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates on body posture. The sample comprised 80 girls divided into three intervention groups as follows: Eutonia group, 26 girls; Holistic Gymnastics group, 27 girls; and Pilates group, 27 girls. Ten sessions of 1 h each were conducted on a weekly basis. Static posture was analyzed using the Postural Analysis Software SAPO; dynamic posture, using the modified Layout for Assessing Dynamic Posture LADy; and lifestyle, using the Body Posture Evaluation Instrument Back PEI questionnaire. The data were statistically analyzed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) by Kruskal-Wallis' averages test at 5% significance level (p < 0,05). RESULTS: The results showed that the three body movement practices improved the head inclination in the frontal plane (1,49°) and pelvic anteversion in the right (1,9°) and left profiles (2,09°). In addition, 25% of pre-teens started to carry their school bag correctly, improving their posture. CONCLUSION: The body movement practices of Eutonia, Holistic Gymnastics, and Pilates improved head inclination, pelvic anteversion, and the correctness rate of carrying the schoolbag.

Effects of Pilates on the risk of falls, gait, balance and functional mobility in healthy older adults: A randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Pilates on falls risk, fear of falling, postural balance, functional mobility, spatiotemporal gait parameters, mobility and physical activity in older adults. DESIGN: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT). METHODS: Sixty-one older adults, mean age 70.08 (SD = 5.51) were randomly allocated into a Pilates group (PG, n = 29) or control group (CG, n = 32). Intervention comprised a 12-week Pilates program, with exercises performed twice a week and supplementary exercises at home. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA), was used to screen cognition. PRIMARY OUTCOMES: Fear of falling, postural balance (force platform), gait velocity (electronic walkway). SECONDARY OUTCOMES: Functional mobility, mobility, physical activity, and spatiotemporal parameters of gait. Statistical analysis was carried out using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE). Covariates were adjusted. RESULTS: Positive effects were found for time effects: Time Up and Go (TUG), anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) directions of balance, cadence, (stance, step and double support time). The step and double support time showed significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.05). Interaction between time and groups was found for FRT. Age was a significant factor in TUG, FRT, postural balance for AP under open eyes conditions. Health status was significant for ML in eyes open condition. Gait was significant for age, height and health status. CONCLUSION: Effects of 12 weeks of Pilates intervention on functional mobility, mobility, postural balance and spatiotemporal gait parameters were identified. Further trials of a longer duration are warranted to determine the effectiveness of Pilates on falls prevention.

Efficacy of non-surgical management and functional outcomes of partial ACL tears. A systematic review of randomised trials.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries represents a large burden of knee injuries in both the general and sporting populations, often requiring surgical intervention. Although there is much research on complete ACL tears including outcomes and indications for surgery, little is known about the short- and long-term outcomes of non-operative, physiotherapy led intervention in partial ACL tears. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate studies looking at the effectiveness of physiotherapy led interventions in improving pain and function in young and middle-aged adults with partial ACL tears. Additionally, the secondary aim was to evaluate the completeness of exercise prescription in randomised trials for physiotherapy led interventions in the management in partial ACL tears. METHODS: A comprehensive and systematic search was performed on six databases (Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, PEDro, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and Cochrane). The search strategy consisted of two main concepts: (i) partial ACL tears, and (ii) non-operative management. 7,587 papers were identified by the search. After screening of eligible articles by two independent reviewers, 2 randomised studies were included for analysis. The same two reviewers assessed the completeness of reporting using the Toigio and Boutellier mechanobiological exercise descriptions and Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) checklist. Group mean standard deviations (SD) for the main outcomes was extracted from both papers for analysis. Prospero Registration Number: CRD42020179892. RESULTS: The search strategy identified two studies; one looking at Tai Chi and the other Pilates. The analysis indicated that Tai Chi was significant in reducing pain scores and both Tai Chi and Pilates were found to increase Muscle Peak Torque Strength (MPTS) at 180 degrees. Furthermore, Tai Chi showed a significant increase in proprioception. CONCLUSIONS: Physiotherapy led interventions such as Pilates, and Tai Chi may improve pain, proprioception and strength in young and middle-aged adults with partial ACL tears, however full scale, high-quality randomised studies are required with long term outcomes recorded.