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Introduction: Severe burn injuries to the lower limbs result in reduced muscle strength, postural imbalance, limited walking ability, and diminished functional activities. This research aimed to study the impact of Pilates exercises on muscle strength, balance, and function in patients with healed lower limb burns, and determine the most effective treatment program for rehabilitation. Material and methods: Seventy-six patients with second-degree thermal burn injuries affecting the lower limbs were distributed into two equal groups. Each group underwent treatment over eight weeks (three sessions per week). Group A underwent Pilates exercises combined with a traditional physiotherapy program comprising stretching, range of motion, and strengthening exercises, while Group B underwent only the traditional physiotherapy program. Muscle strength, balance, and function were evaluated before and after the intervention using a Lafayette hand-held dynamometer (HHD), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), respectively. Results: Both groups A and B exhibited significant improvements in knee flexor and extensor strength, BBS scores, and LEFS scores (p < 0.001). However, Group A achieved greater improvements in all measurements compared to Group B (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pilates exercises effectively enhance lower limb muscle strength, balance, and functional status during rehabilitation for patients with lower limb burns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Exercise Therapy & Rehabilitation is the property of Yavuz Yakut and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective. Lumbopelvic stability and shooting accuracy are some of the key determinants in the performance of archers. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pilates exercise intervention combined with balance training on lumbopelvic stability and shooting accuracy in national level archers. Methods. A randomized control trial with pre-test and post-test control group design was conducted with thirty male professional archers between the ages of 18-30 years. The participants were randomly allocated into three groups (ten in each group: PB = Balance and Pilates exercises; B = Balance Exercises; C = No exercises). The lumbopelvic stability was determined using the Knee Lift Abdominal Test (KLAT) and Bent Knee Fall-Out Test (BKFOT) for both legs by using a pressure biofeedback unit. Shooting accuracy was measured by taking the score of two ends with 12 arrows. Baseline measurements were taken before given intervention. The training program was given for 20 minutes a day and three times per week for six weeks. Results. One-way ANOVA showed significant difference in shooting accuracy (F = 5.11, ηp² = 0.159, p = 0.03), KLAT (Right) (F = 8.51, ηp² = 0.240, p = 0.00), KLAT (Left) (F = 6.62, ηp² = 0.187, p = 0.01) and BKFOT (Left) (F = 6.31, ηp² = 0.195, p = 0.01). Whereas no significant difference is shown in BKFOT (Right) (F = 0.99, ηp² = 0.035, p = 0.33) among B, PB, and Control group for baseline measurement and after intervention. Conclusions. Although balance training showed improvements in the post-test values, the most significant improvements were recorded in the Pilates plus balance training group. This information can be used to plan the training protocols for archers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of selected Pilates exercises on the quality of life among elderly residents of Kalat Naderi, focusing on improvements in physical functioning, mental health, and general well-being. Methods and Materials: A randomized controlled trial design was employed, with 60 participants aged 55 and above, randomly assigned to either an intervention group that participated in a structured Pilates exercise program or a control group that received no intervention. Quality of life was measured at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at a 3-month follow-up using the SF-36 Health Survey. Data analysis involved ANOVA with repeated measurements and Bonferroni post-hoc tests, conducted using SPSS version 27. Results: The intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in quality of life scores from baseline (Mean = 54.67, SD = 5.34) to post-test (Mean = 55.23, SD = 4.89), and these gains were maintained at the 3-month follow-up (Mean = 56.12, SD = 4.56). In contrast, the control group showed minimal changes over the same periods. ANOVA results indicated a significant difference between the groups (F = 23.45, p < 0.001), and Bonferroni post-hoc analysis confirmed the significance of improvements in the intervention group compared to the control. Conclusion: The Pilates exercise program significantly enhanced the quality of life for the elderly participants in this study, suggesting that Pilates is an effective intervention for improving physical and mental well-being in this population. These findings indicate the necessity and importance of incorporating structured physical activity, such as Pilates, into the lifestyles of the elderly to promote better health outcomes and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Beni Suef Journal of Physical Education & Sports Sciences. is the property of Beni Suef University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pilates-based exercise training applied with hybrid telerehabilitation on Cobb angle, respiratory function, respiratory muscle strength, and functional capacity in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). This is an evaluator-blinded, randomized, controlled trial. For the study, 32 patients were randomly allocated into two groups: a hybrid telerehabilitation group (training group), provided with modified Pilates-based exercises with synchronous sessions; and a home-based group (control group), doing the same exercises in their home. The Pilates-based exercise program consists of stretching and strengthening exercises combined with postural corrections and breathing exercises modified according to the curve type and localization of the patients, done every day of the week for 12 weeks. Analyses were made based on the comparison between the angle of trunk rotation, Cobb angle, spirometry, maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory pressures (MEP), and incremental shuttle walk tests done at the beginning and end of the study. The training group showed statistically significant improvements in Cobb angle, PEF%, MIP, and MEP values compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Pilates-based exercises applied with the hybrid telerehabilitation method can improve Cobb angle and respiratory muscle strength in patients with AIS. The hybrid telerehabilitation method can be used as an alternative to home-based programs, especially in locations and times where there may be limited access to supervised training. Also, the nature of the disease that requires long-term follow-up is another factor where hybrid telerehabilitation may be an advantage. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05761236. What is Known: • Exercise training is one of the main approaches to treating scoliosis. What is New: • Application of exercises via telerehabilitation method may contribute more to the improvement of scoliosis-related parameters than home-based programs. • Telerehabilitation may be a preferable alternative exercise method in scoliosis, considering the advantages of accessibility and long-term follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduction in flexibility and mobility are important factors that lead to impairments in quality of life, reduction of exercise tolerance, and a decreased pulmonary capacity with the progression of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Pilates exercises on mobility, quality of life, and respiratory muscle strength in patients with AS. Forty patients with AS were randomly divided into two groups as Pilates group and the control group. The Pilates group performed Pilates exercises in supervised group sessions and the control group performed conventional exercises at home three days a week for eight weeks. The main outcome measure was respiratory muscle strength. Secondary outcome measures were forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) FEV1/FVC ratio, chest expansion, Bath indices (BASDAI, BASMI), Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (ASQoL) and six-minute walk test (6MWT). All participants were assessed by a blind assessor at baseline and the end of eight weeks. Thirty-six AS patients (n = 19 in the Pilates group, n = 17 in the control group) completed the study. Respiratory muscle strength, FEV1/FVC, chest expansion, BASDAI, BASMI, ASQoL, and 6MWT significantly improved at the 8th week (p <.05) in the Pilates group, while inspiratory muscle strength, FEV1/FVC, chest expansion, and 6MWT showed significant improvements in the control group at 8th week compared to baseline (p <.05). No significant between-group differences were observed when the change over time values were compared (Δ). Both Pilates and home exercises seem to be effective for improving respiratory parameters and functional status in patients with AS. Pilates exercises without using any equipment and additional exercises is found to be useful for improving respiratory functions and disease-related symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aims to investigate the effect of Pilates exercises on sleep and fatigue among female college students residing in the dormitory. Methods This quasi-experimental study, two parallel groups was performed on 80 single female college students (40 per group), between 18 to 26 years old who lived in the two dormitories. One dormitory was considered as the intervention group and another as the control group. The Pilates group received three one-hour Pilates exercise sessions per week for eight weeks and the control group maintained their routine activities. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20) were used respectively to assess sleep quality and fatigue levels, at three time points: baseline, end of week four, and eight follow-ups. Fisher’s exact, Chi-square, independent sample t-test and repeated measurements were used. Results Overall, 66 participants completed the study (32 and 35 participants in the Pilates and control groups, respectively). After four and eight weeks of intervention, the overall mean score of sleep quality improved significantly (p

Copyright of Journal of the College Of Basic Education is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of six weeks of Pilates exercises on the function of the upper and lower extremities in middle-aged women with lower crossed syndrome (LCS). Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental research with a pre-test-post-test design. The participants included 30 females with LCS from Tiam Sport Club. They were selected using a purposive sampling method and randomly divided into Pilates exercises and control groups. The function of the upper extremity was assessed using Y and Davies tests, and the lower extremity function was assessed using side hop and square hop tests. The Pilates training program was implemented for 6 weeks, 3 days a week and each session lasted 30 minutes. Paired t-test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used to analyze data at a significance level of P≤0.05. Results: The results showed that the Pilates exercise group performed better than the control group in the function tests of the upper and lower extremities (P≤0.05). No significant difference was observed between pre-test and post-test scores in the control group (P>0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that Pilates exercises can improve the function of the upper and lower extremities by enhancing the strength and efficiency of core stabilizer muscles. Therefore, it seems rational to suggest physiotherapists and coaches use these exercises in individuals with LCS.

Background: This study aims to investigate the effect of Pilates exercises on sleep and fatigue among female college students residing in the dormitory. Methods: This quasi-experimental study, two parallel groups was performed on 80 single female college students (40 per group), between 18 to 26 years old who lived in the two dormitories. One dormitory was considered as the intervention group and another as the control group. The Pilates group received three one-hour Pilates exercise sessions per week for eight weeks and the control group maintained their routine activities. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20) were used respectively to assess sleep quality and fatigue levels, at three time points: baseline, end of week four, and eight follow-ups. Fisher's exact, Chi-square, independent sample t-test and repeated measurements were used. Results: Overall, 66 participants completed the study (32 and 35 participants in the Pilates and control groups, respectively). After four and eight weeks of intervention, the overall mean score of sleep quality improved significantly (p < 0.001). At week four of the intervention, the Pilates group had a significantly lower mean score for subjective sleep quality and daytime dysfunction than the control group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.002, respectively), although sleep duration and habitual sleep efficiency improved after eight weeks of intervention (p < 0.04 and p < 0.034, respectively). Additionally, the overall mean score of fatigue and its dimensions in weeks four and eight of the intervention in the Pilates group were significantly lower compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: After eight weeks of Pilates exercises implementation, most components of sleep quality significantly improved; however, the effect of Pilates exercises on fatigue was evident from week four onward. Trial registration This trial was registered on 2/6/2015 in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials with the IRCT ID: IRCT201412282324N15. URL of registry: https://www.irct.ir/trial/1970. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of the Association of Arab Universities for Higher Education Research is the property of Journal of the Association of Arab Universities for Higher Education Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Objective: Infertility, as one of the most common diseases of women, is a complex life crisis that is associated with physical, mental, and social problems which causes serious disorders in marital relationships. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Transactional analysis (TA) and Pilates exercises on Psychic restlessness and the general health of infertile women. Materials and Methods: The present applied and quasi-experimental study with pre-test, post-test, and control group was conducted on infertile women referred to Kermanshah Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Kermanshah, Iran in 2020-2021. A total of 75 individuals were selected according to the inclusion criteria and randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The research instruments were the Psychic restlessness Questionnaire by Alikhani and Kazemi Haghighi (2017) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) by Goldberg (1972). It was a two-hour session. Results: A significant difference was observed between the experimental and control groups. The findings indicate that training based on Transactional analysis (TA) and Pilates exercises are effective for Psychic restlessness and the general health of infertile women (F= 34.361 and P< 0.05, F= 26.240 and P< 0.05). Also, the comparison of the obtained means suggests that learning based on the Transactional analysis (TA) approach is more effective in mental changes and health of infertile women compared to Pilates exercises. Conclusion: Methods based on interpersonal relationships and emotional issues can be concluded to reduce the level of Psychic restlessness and improve the mental health of infertile women which is an important treatment for infertility in couples.

Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of six weeks of Pilates exercises on the function of the upper and lower extremities in middle-aged women with lower crossed syndrome (LCS). Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental research with a pre-test-post-test design. The participants included 30 females with LCS from Tiam Sport Club. They were selected using a purposive sampling method and randomly divided into Pilates exercises and control groups. The function of the upper extremity was assessed using Y and Davies tests, and the lower extremity function was assessed using side hop and square hop tests. The Pilates training program was implemented for 6 weeks, 3 days a week and each session lasted 30 minutes. Paired t-test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used to analyze data at a significance level of P=0.05. Results: The results showed that the Pilates exercise group performed better than the control group in the function tests of the upper and lower extremities (P=0.05). No significant difference was observed between pre-test and post-test scores in the control group (P>0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that Pilates exercises can improve the function of the upper and lower extremities by enhancing the strength and efficiency of core stabilizer muscles. Therefore, it seems rational to suggest physiotherapists and coaches use these exercises in individuals with LCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effect of the Aerobic and Pilates exercises on mental health in inactive older women. Seventy-five inactive aged women were randomly divided into three groups (n = 25); aerobic (62.48 ± 2.87 years), Pilates (62.66 ± 1.68 years), and control group (63.80 ± 3.35 years). The Goldberg General Health Questionnaire assessed mental health. The exercise program was performed for 12 weeks. The results indicate that Pilates exercises are more valuable than aerobic training in depression (p ≤.05). However, in other mental health components, the difference between the two exercise groups was not statistically significant. According to our results, physical activity, particularly Pilates and aerobic exercises, improves physical health and has a close correlation with the mental health of inactive older women. These results highlight the role of these physical exercise training in older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer as the most common cancer and deadliest malignancy among women is one of the most important health concerns in the world. Therefore, the present study was conducted in response to the question of whether the Pilates training method affects the memory, attention, and balance of women with lymphedema after modified mastectomy. Methods: In this quasi-experimental clinical trial, we studied 20 women with an average and standard division in (age, 43.03±5.61year), height (163.85±4.63 cm) and weight (67±3.95 kg). Our subjects referred to Shahid Motahari clinic, Shiraz, Iran in 2019 with lymphedema after modified mastectomy. They were randomly divided into two groups: Pilates and control. The experimental group performed Pilate’s exercises for 2 weeks, 3 days a week with 60 minutes long each session. Memory, attention, and balance before and after the training program were assessed using one-way analysis of covariance and paired t-test at a significance level of 0.05. Results: Statistical analysis of age, height, and weight showed no differences between the two groups. Statistical analysis of paired t-test indicated a significant difference in pre-test and post-test scores of the training group, yet this difference was not significant in the control group. Moreover, one-way analysis of covariance revealed a significant difference between the two groups in pre to post- tests in the tests of Stroop test [exercise (pre): 449.70±45, (post): 421.30±58.13; Control (pre): 461.30±23.17, (post): 457.10±22.20, P=0.014), n-back [Exercise (pre): 69.50±19.69; (post): 88.00±13.23; Control (pre): 79.40±17.48, (post): 82.00±10.74 P=0.016), and Flamingo [Exercise(pre): 18.49 ±18.92; (post): 51.57±43.02; Control (pre): 10.85±4.36, (post): 10.83±3.91, P=0.001]. Attention: (431.30±33.59), (461±11.12), memory: (72.50±17.34), (90±8.27), and static balance: (9.96±4.23), (29.39±7.00). In control group, the mean and standard deviation of the scores were as follows: attention: (465.90±10.56), (462.60±6.99), memory: (79.40±17.48), (85.90±4.45), and static balance: (10.85±4.36), (10.83±3.91). Conclusion: According to our findings, it could be concluded that women with breast cancer can use the benefits of Pilates along with other treatments.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate how a Pilates-based core strengthening exercise program affected pain, lower limb muscle strength, functional status, and health-related quality of life in adolescents with patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 34 teenagers with PFPS (ages 14-17) were randomly assigned to receive either a standard PT program (control group) or Pilates exercises plus the conventional program (study group). Both groups continued the treatment sessions for 3 months (3 sessions/week). Pain intensity, lower limb muscle strength (hip abductors and external rotators and knee extensors), functional status, and health-related quality of life were evaluated pre-and post-intervention. RESULTS: Pain intensity (p =.005) reduced significantly post-treatment in the study group as compared to the control group, when controlled for the pre-treatment value. Also, muscle strength of hip abductors (p =.002) external rotators (p < .001), knee extensors (p = .013), functional status (p = .002), and health related quality of life (p < .001) increased significantly in the study group when compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show that Pilates-based core strengthening exercises can help adolescents with PFPS reduce pain, enhance muscle strength, and improve their functional status and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Musculoskeletal disorders, like Low Back Pain (LBP) are associated with impaired lumbopelvic motor control. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of modified Pilates exercises on pain, disability, and lumbopelvic motor control in patients with chronic LBP. Methods: In this randomized controlled single-blind clinical trial, 30 chronic patients with chronic LBP were selected using the convenience sampling method. Then, they were randomly assigned to two groups of control and modified Pilates exercises. The treatment program in the modified Pilates exercises group was based on the Pilates method, and the control group performed general exercises. Lumbar-pelvic motion control index (compression biofeedback unit), muscle tardiness (Endurance test & Sorensen test), pain score (Visual Analogue Scale), and functional disability score (Oswestry Low Back Pain Questionnaire) were measured before and after the intervention. The collected data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test and Mann-Whitney U Test (P0.05). Conclusion: The modified Pilates exercises effectively increased the level of muscle endurance and the control of lumbar-pelvic motion, and reduced pain and disability.

Background & objectives: Physical activity is one of the several factors which stimulate the secretion of growth and nerve growth factors in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of Pilates training and ginger consumption on serum level of BDNF and TNF-α in women with MS. Methods: Forty women with MS were randomly selected from 85 women referred to the Welfare Office of Urmia city, in Iran, with the age range of 30-35 in the form of a pre-test and post-test quasi-experimental study design. Participants were divided into four groups including: exercise+ supplement, exercise+ placebo, ginger supplement and control group with 10 individuals in each group. The intervention groups performed Pilates exercises for 12 weeks, 3 sessions of 60 minutes every week, and the supplement groups took three ginger capsules of one gram daily. In order to analyze the data, analysis of covariance was done using SPSS-22 software. Results: The results showed that ginger consumption combined with physical exercises increases BDNF in the intervention groups compared to the control groups, but this increase is more significant in the exercise+supplement group (p

The article deals with the study of the possibility of applying Pilates exercises for optimization of the functional state of students’ bodies by performing the basic principles of technology and its implementation in students’ educational process. The characteristic of basic Pilates exercises is given. Among those exercises are: twisting, body-rocking, and strain of the spine bone. Methods of research. During the study the methods that allow us to assess the dynamics of the functional state of the body (determination of heart rate, blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), hypoxic samples «Stange and Genchi», the Rufier tese, the Kerdo index, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, assessment of general state, activity and mood) were applied. The results presented indicate the effectiveness of the Pilates exercises implementation in the program on the subject «Physical Culture» for optimization the functional state and improvement of bodies of female students at the age of 17-20 years. It is concluded that this set of exercises increases the efficiency and effectiveness of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, physical performance, as well as reduce the level of state and trait anxiety, and the activity of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a rheumatic disease characterized by erosive synovitis and polyarthritis. Exercise is known to improve many symptoms in RA patients. Aim: This study was designed to compare the effects of pilates exercises, aerobic exercises, and combined training including pilates with aerobic exercises on fatigue, depression, aerobic capacity, pain, sleep quality, and quality of life. Methods: Thirty voluntary RA patients were included in this study. Patients were divided into three groups equally, and treatment was applied to each group for 8 weeks. Pilates exercises were practiced to the first group, aerobic exercises were practiced to the second group, and combined training was performed to the third group. Fatigue, depression, aerobic capacity, pain, sleep quality, and quality of life were evaluated using Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), McGill Pain Questionnaire- Short Form (MPQ-SF), Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life (RAQoL), respectively. Results: The results of the present study showed significant improvements for the first group on fatigue, depression, aerobic capacity, and quality of life (p < 0.05). Improvements in all parameters except for pain were obtained for the second and third groups (p < 0.05). In addition, there was no statistically significant difference among the treatment groups in assessments (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Pilates exercises may have similar effects to aerobic exercises in patients with RA. Addition of clinical pilates exercises to the routine treatment of RA may enhance the success of rehabilitation. Trial registration NCT03836820 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lordosis is a curvature in the posterior of vertebral column. Loss of normal lordotic alignment may induce pathologic changes in the spine from load bearing and accelerate degeneration of the functional motion units. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of the corrective exercises of the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and Pilates on the correction of lumbar lordosis among female high school students. Methods: In this experimental study, conducted in 2018, 45 female high school students suffering from lumbar lordosis were randomly selected from Golestan Province and divided into three groups of NASM corrective exercises, Pilates exercises and control. The two intervention groups received corrective exercises for eight weeks, the angle of lordosis was measured prior to and following the intervention, and the analysis of variance was used at a significant level of P Results: The results showed that both 8-week corrective NASM (P=0.03) and 8-week Pilates exercises (P=0.01) had a significant effect on the angle of lumbar lordosis. However, no significant differences were observed in the control group in this regard (P=0.7). Moreover, according to ANOVA test, there were no significant differences among the three groups regarding lordosis angle prior to the intervention (P=0.13 and F=2.14). Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, the lumbar lordosis angle decreased in both NASM and Pilates exercises groups following the intervention, with NASM exercises resulting in more reduction in the lumbar curvature compared with Pilates exercises. Therefore, therapists and experts of corrective movements can make use of these exercises as novel approachesto correcting lordosis.

The aim of the present study was to verify the effects of a Pilates training on total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), glucose and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, as well as on functionality of postmenopausal women with dyslipidemia. This randomized study involved 35 sedentary women with dyslipidemia, aged between 60 and 75 years. One group participated in a Pilates exercises training with two to four weekly sessions during 10 weeks (Pilates group, n = 20) and the other group did not perform any intervention (control group, n = 6). Biochemical analyses and functionality parameters were measured before and after the 10 weeks. No significant differences were observed in TC, TG, LDL and HDL for both groups. Regarding glucose and CRP levels, significant reductions were observed in both groups after the intervention period. In functional parameters, both groups significantly increased their 30-s chair stand test values. On the other hand, only the Pilates group presented significant increments in the 6-min walk test (p < 0.05). Pilates training did not change lipid or lipoprotein levels, but improved cardiorespiratory fitness of elderly women with dyslipidemia. • Although the results did not fully meet our expectations (TC, TG, LDL and HDL remained unchanged with the intervention proposed). • Data found were of great relevance, the sample included postmenopausal women with dyslipidemias (whitout lipid-lowering drugs). • Effects of Pilates training in dyslipidemic. • Isolated response of this method in postmenopausal. • Periodization applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was done to identify the effect of pilates exercises on the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Design: A quasi experimental was conducted on university student with premenstrual syndrome. Methods: Population of the study included midwifery students with premenstrual syndrome at Istanbul University Faculty of Health Sciences (N = 286) and 50 of them became the sample (25 in experimental group and 25 in control group). Non-probablistic sampling method was used. While the students in experimental group were asked to practice the pilates exercises for three months, the students in control group were told to maintain their routine habits. At the end of the three months, premenstrual syndrome problem of experimental and control group was diagnosed and the effect of pilates on premenstrual syndrome was evaluated. Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms were evaluated through Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS). The high score received from PMSS shows that the symptoms are intensive. Results: It was seen that the students in the experimental and control group were similar in terms of their aspects which were individual, health and could affect premenstrual syndrome (p > 005). A statistical significant difference was not found between total scores and sub-dimension scores of PMSS in experimental and control group (p < 0.05). It was seen that PMSS total score of experimental group was significantly lower than that of control group (p < 0.001). When in-group comparisons were examined, it was identified that PMSS scores of control group did not change at the beginning and end of exercise, but PMSS score of experimental group at the end of exercise was lower than their score received at the beginning of exercise and, the difference was statistically significant to the highest degree (p < 0.001). Conclusion: It was seen that the pilates exercises, which were practiced in this research, decreased the PMS symptoms considerably. In this regard, the pilates exercises have an important role in healing the PMS symptoms.

BACKGROUND: Although the Pilates method has been reported to be effective in women with low back pain (LBP), the efficacy of Pilates exercises in pregnant women with LBP has not been evaluated widely. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of clinical Pilates exercises on lumbopelvic stabilization, pain, disability and quality of life in pregnant women with LBP. METHODS: Fourty pregnant women were randomized into either a Pilates exercise group (n = 20) or control group (n = 20). Subjects in the Pilates exercise group performed the exercises two times a week for eight weeks. Subjects in the control group followed regular prenatal care. Lumbopelvic stabilization was assessed with a pressure biofeedback unit, pain with the Visual Analog Scale, disability with the Oswestry Low Back Pain Questionnaire and quality of life with the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). RESULTS: Pain and disability were significantly improved in the Pilates exercise group after intervention (p = 0.03, p < 0.001, respectively). There were also significant improvements in sleep, physical mobility sub-parameters of NHP and lumbopelvic stabilization after Pilates exercises (p = 0.048, p = 0.007, respectively). However, there were no statistically significant changes in all outcome measures in the control group (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Pilates exercises can be recommended as an effective and safe method for increasing lumbopelvic stabilization, reducing pain and disability, improving physical mobility and sleep problems in pregnant women with LBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: Balance between mental and physical health plays an essential role in happiness and desire for physical activities in individuals. On the other hand, Pilates and aerobic exercises play a pivotal role in creating balance between mental and physical health, in a way that sport activities could improve self-satisfaction and happiness. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of eight weeks of Pilates and aerobic exercises on happiness and desire for physical activities in inactive women. Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental research was conducted on 40 inactive women in Tabriz, Iran in 2016. Subjects were selected through random sampling and were divided into four groups of control, Pilates, aerobic, and Pilates-aerobic program. In total, the participants attended 24 60-minute Pilates and aerobic sessions (three times per week) and filled the questionnaire of happiness and desire for physical activities before and after the intervention. It is notable that the reliability of the research tool was estimated at the Cronbach’s alpha of 0.93 and 0.87, respectively. In addition, data analysis was performed in SPSS version 20, and P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: According to the results of ANOVA and Tukey’s test, intervention caused a significant increase in both happiness and desire for physical activities in the subjects. However, there was no significant difference between the groups regarding the level of improvement. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, physical exercises and sports, specifically Pilates and aerobic exercises, are not only valuable tools for maintaining physical health, but also they have a close correlation with mental health and happiness of inactive women. Therefore, it is suggested that these types of activities be applied as a solution for creating and increasing a good mood in women’s society.

Background and purpose: People who are deaf have poorer balance due to defects in vestibular system, which is one of the major systems of the human balance control. Materials and methods: A pretest-posttest semi-experimental study was designed with pretest-posttest and control group. Thirty two deaf students were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group did Pilates exercises for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week. Balance tests, including the BESS test, TUG test, 10 meters walking test and step length measurement were done before and after the study. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Dependent t-test and covariance analysis (ANCOVA) were run at P

Abstract Background and purpose There is a need to investigate the effects of pilates exercises on the quality of life (QOL) of patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD). The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of pilates exercises on the QOL of CKD patients. Materials and methods For this randomized controlled clinical trial, we enrolled 50 CKD patients. The participants were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 25) and control (n = 25) groups. Modified classical pilates exercises were performed by the experimental group three times a week over a 12-week period. The Quality of Life Short Form (KDQOL-SF) questionnaire was completed by all participants at the beginning of the trial and two months after completion of the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square, independent t -test, and paired t -test. Results There were significant increases in the scores of QOL dimensions in the experimental group after the intervention (p ≤ 0.05). Comparison of the mean differences at the beginning and two months after the study in the two groups showed that the scores related to QOL dimensions in the experimental group were significantly greater than the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion The findings indicated the pilates exercises can be valuable for improvement of CKD patients' QOL. Highlights • Pilates exercises are effective for improving CKD patients' quality of life. • Pilates exercises are safety in CKD patients. • We propose the inclusion of pilates exercises in CKD patients' treatment protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: People who are deaf have poorer balance due to defects in vestibular system, which is one of the major systems of the human balance control. Materials and methods: A pretest-posttest semi-experimental study was designed with pretestposttest and control group. Thirty two deaf students were randomly divided into two groups. The experimental group did Pilates exercises for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week. Balance tests, including the BESS test, TUG test, 10 meters walking test and step length measurement were done before and after the study. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Dependent t-test and covariance analysis (ANCOVA) were run at P<0.05. Results: Covariance analysis showed significant differences between experimental and control groups at posttest in BESS, TUG, step length, and walking speed tests. Conclusion: Pilates exercises improved the static and dynamic balance, walking speed and step length in deaf students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluate the effects of a Pilates exercise programme on walking and balance in people with multiple sclerosis and compare this exercise approach to conventional physical therapy sessions. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Multiple Sclerosis Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel. Subjects: Forty-five people with multiple sclerosis, 29 females, mean age (SD) was 43.2 (11.6) years; mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (S.D) was 4.3 (1.3). Interventions: Participants received 12 weekly training sessions of either Pilates (n=22) or standardized physical therapy (n=23) in an outpatient basis. Main measures: Spatio-temporal parameters of walking and posturography parameters during static stance. Functional tests included the Time Up and Go Test, 2 and 6-minute walk test, Functional Reach Test, Berg Balance Scale and the Four Square Step Test. In addition, the following self-report forms included the Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale and Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Results: At the termination, both groups had significantly increased their walking speed (P=0.021) and mean step length (P=0.023). According to the 2-minute and 6-minute walking tests, both groups at the end of the intervention program had increased their walking speed. Mean (SD) increase in the Pilates and physical therapy groups were 39.1 (78.3) and 25.3 (67.2) meters, respectively. There was no effect of group X time in all instrumented and clinical balance and gait measures. Conclusions: Pilates is a possible treatment option for people with multiple sclerosis in order to improve their walking and balance capabilities. However, this approach does not have any significant advantage over standardized physical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors of this study compared the effects of pilates exercises and connective tissue massage (CTM) on pain intensity; pain-pressure threshold; and tolerance, anxiety, progress, and health-related quality of life in females with fibromyalgia. It was a pilot, assessor masked, randomized controlled trial conducted between January and August of 2013. Twenty-one women with fibromyalgia were randomly assigned to the pilates exercise program (six of whom did not complete the program), and 22 were randomly assigned to CTM (one of whom did not complete this program). Each group received the assigned intervention three times per week during a 4-week period. The Visual Analogue Scale, algometry, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, and Nottingham Health Profile were used at baseline and at the end of treatments. Significant improvements were found in both groups for all parameters. However, the scores for pain-pressure threshold were significantly elevated and the symptoms of anxiety were significantly diminished in the exercise group compared to the massage group. Thus, exercise and massage might be used to provide improvements in women with fibromyalgia. The exercise group showed more advantages than the massage group and thus might be preferred for patients with fibromyalgia. However, an adequately powered trial is required to determine this with certainty. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduction and hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of adding voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC) to a Pilates exercise program in sedentary nulliparous women. Methods: Fifty-seven healthy nulliparous and physically inactive women were randomized to a Pilates exercise program (PEP) with or without PFMC. Forty-eight women concluded this study (24 participants for each group). Each woman was evaluated before and after the PEP, by a physiotherapist and an urogynecologist (UG). Neither of the professionals was revealed to them. This physiotherapist measured their pelvic floor muscle strength by using both a perineometer (Peritron) and vaginal palpation (Oxford Scale). The UG, who performed 3D perineal ultrasound examinations, collected their data and evaluated the results for pubovisceral muscle thickness and the levator hiatus area (LA). Both professionals were blinded to the group allocation. The protocol for both groups consisted of 24 bi-weekly 1-h individual sessions of Pilates exercises, developed by another physiotherapist who specializes in PFM rehabilitation and the Pilates technique. Results: The PEP+ PFMC group showed significantly greater strength improvements than the PEP group when comparing the Oxford scale, vaginal pressure and pubovisceral muscle thickness during contraction measurements at baseline and post-treatment. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that adding a voluntary PFMC to a Pilates exercise program is more effective than Pilates alone in improving PFM strength in sedentary nulliparous women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Decreased postural control, sensory integration deficits and fatigue are important problems that cause functional impairments in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Purpose To examine the effect of modified clinical Pilates exercises on sensory interaction and balance, postural control and fatigue in pwMS. Methods Eleven patients with multiple sclerosis and 12 healthy matched controls were recruited in this study. Limits of stability and postural stability tests were used to evaluate postural control by Biodex Balance System and sensory interaction assessed. Fatigue was assessed by Modified Fatigue Impact Scale. Pilates exercises were applied two times a week for 10 weeks and measurements were repeated to pwMS after exercise training. Results Postural control and fatigue (except psychosocial parameter) of pwMS were significantly worser than healthy controls (p<0.05). Significant improvements occurred in sensory interaction (eyes open, foam surface) and total, physical and cognitive scores of fatigue after 10-week modified clinical Pilates training (p<0.05). No significant changes were detected in postural control after the pilates exercises (p>0.05). Conclusions Ten-week Pilates training is effective to improve sensory interaction and to decrease fatigue. Pilates exercises can be applied safely in ambulatory pwMS for enhance sensory interaction and balance and combat fatigue. More investigations are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexibility is an important component of physical fitness which is essential to varying degrees in different sports. It becomes even more important as it not only enhances athletic efficiency but reduces the risk of injuries as well. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of regular Pilates exercises on flexibility and the volleyball serve skill in female, college students. For the purposes of this study, 22 female students were randomly selected and assigned to the following two groups of equal numbers: the experimental group (age: 20.64; height: 161 cm; weight: 56.27 kg) and the control (age: 20.09; height: 161.82 cm; weight: 57.18 kg). Over the six-week period of study, the experimental (Pilates) group participated in three sessions of Pilates exercises and one session of volleyball exercises each week. The control, however, participated only in the one volleyball exercise session on a weekly basis. All the subjects were tested for their flexibility and volleyball serve skills before and after the study period. The results showed that Pilates exercises had a significant effect on the subjects' flexibility at the 0.05 probability level and improved their volleyball serve skills. Based on the results obtained from this study, Pilates exercises may be recommended for improving flexibility and sports skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Low back pain is highly prevalent in patients with HTLV-1. The effects of physical activity on this condition are not known, but postural misalignment and motor deficits are frequently present. Objectives: To assess the effect of Pilates exercises on chronic low back pain in these patients, and its impact on quality of life. Methods: A randomized crossover clinical trial was conducted, involving 22 patients from a reference center in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. The VAS was used to evaluate the effect of Pilates on pain intensity and the SF-36 to assess its impact on quality of life. Results: Our results provide evidence of positive effects on pain intensity and almost all domains of quality of life when patients followed the Pilates exercise program described. Conclusion: The Pilates method may be a useful tool in alleviating the symptoms of low back pain, and had a significant impact on quality of life in this sample of patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pilates methods use mats for trunk muscles stabilization exercises, and leg pull front (LPF) is one of the traditional Pilates mat exercises. Abdominal hollowing (AH) and Abdominal bracing (AB) maneuvers are recommended to stabilize the trunk muscles and prevent unwanted pelvic movement during motion. This study aimed to explore the effects of AH and AB on electromyography (EMG) activity of the trunk muscles and angle of pelvic rotation during LPF. A total of 20 healthy volunteers participated in the study. AH, AB, and without any condition (WC) were randomly performed during LPF exercise. Each was repeated three times for 5 s. The trunk muscle activities were measured using EMG and rotation of pelvis was measured using a Smart KEMA device. The activities of the transversus abdominis/obliquus internus abdominis (TrA/IO) and right obliquus externus abdominis (EO) muscles were highest in LPF-AH compared to the other conditions. Multifidus (MF) activity was significantly greater in LPF-AH and LPF-AB compared to that of without any condition. The pelvic rotation angle was significantly smaller in LPF-AB. Therefore, AH maneuver during LPF for trunk muscle stabilization exercises is suitable for selective activation of the TrA/IO, and AB maneuver during LPF is recommended for the prevention of unwanted pelvic rotation.

Summary: Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of Pilates exercise program on pain, functional status and quality of life in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis. Design: The study was performed as a randomized, prospective, controlled and single-blind trial. Participations: Seventy women (age range, 45–65 years) with the diagnosis of postmenopausal osteoporosis were included. Methods and interventions: Patients were randomly allocated into two groups (home and Pilates exercise groups). Patients in the Pilates exercise group underwent a supervised Pilates exercise program twice a week for one year. Patients in the home exercise group were asked to perform a home exercise program consisting of thoracic extension exercises. Patients were evaluated at baseline and after one year of participation in the exercise programs. Main outcome measurements: Visual Analog Scale for pain, six-minute walking and sit-to-stand tests for functional status, and the Qualeffo-41 Questionnaire and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) for quality of life. Patients were also asked to report the number of falls during the intervention. Results: At the end of the study, the results of 60 patients were analyzed. A significant improvement was noted in all evaluation parameters at the end of the exercise program in the Pilates exercise group. Except for Qualeffo- Leisure Time Activities, SF-36 physical role limitation and emotional role limitation subscales, a significant improvement was noted in all other evaluation parameters at the end of the exercise program in the home exercise group. Improvement was significantly greater in the Pilates exercise group compared to the home exercise group in all parameters. Conclusion: Pilates exercises may be a safe and an effective treatment alternative for the quality of life in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

AIM: To compare the effects of Pilates exercises and Conventional therapy on Upper Extremity Function and Quality of Life in women with breast cancer. METHOD: Among most common types of cancer found all over world is "Breast cancer". Breast cancer surgery lead to physical, social and psychological difficulties. Different therapies have been given for different complications after breast cancer but recently introduced Pilates exercise is a comprehensive therapy program based on mind, body & spirit. The study has been done in the age group 25-65 yrs 30 married women's. Two divided groups contained 15 patients in each group. Experimental group treated with Pilates exercises & Control group with Conventional therapy. Quality of Life & Wingate scale is used for evaluation. Wingate is used for post-mastectomy patient to assess Upper Extremity function. RESULT: Paired t- test is applied for comparing pre & post exercise therapy in experimental & control group. Mean change in pre & post exercise therapy between two groups is carried out by unpaired t- test. Statistical difference found greater improvement in experimental group than control group. CONCLUSION: On comparing experimental and control group, both group showed improvement in Upper extremity function & Quality of life but experimental group showed more improvement indicating Pilates exercises are more effective than Conventional therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of Pilates exercises on the social physical concern (SPC) of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). We also aimed to determine the effect of Pilates exercises on strength, body mass index (BMI), pain, and depression. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five female patients with an age range of 33 to 63 years (mean: 49.16±7.51) were evaluated. All patients had been diagnosed with FMS according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria. Patients underwent a Pilates exercise program consisting of one hour of exercise performed three times per week for 12 weeks. Prior to exercise and at the end of the 12th week, the patient’s weight, grip strength of the hands, back strength, body fat ratio, and BMI were measured. Before- and after-exercise measurements were compared. The patient pain level was determined using the visual analog scale (VAS). Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to define the depression level of patients. SPC level of patients was obtained by Social Physique Anxiety Scale (SPAS). The correlations between SPC scores and anthropometric values and pain and depression levels were evaluated. Results: Pilates exercises significantly improved the weight, BMI, body fat ratio and SPC and pain level of the patients. No statistically significant change was found for grip strength of either hand or back strength. A statistically significant correlation was found between SPC scores and the body fat ratio, weight, BMI, and pain and depression scores of patients before and after the exercise program. Conclusion: A 12-week Pilates program had positive effects on anthropometric parameters, SPC, and pain and depression levels of FMS patients. Patients with FMS can safely perform Pilates exercises to control weight, improve physical appearance, and reduce SPC and pain and depression levels, and no adverse side effects were observed. To obtain further evidence regarding the effectiveness of Pilates exercises, additional studies involving different patient groups are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was done to identify the effect of pilates exercises on the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.Design: A quasi experimental was conducted on university student with premenstrual syndrome.Methods: Population of the study included midwifery students with premenstrual syndrome at Istanbul University Faculty of Health Sciences (N = 286) and 50 of them became the sample (25 in experimental group and 25 in control group). Non-probablistic sampling method was used. While the students in experimental group were asked to practice the pilates exercises for three months, the students in control group were told to maintain their routine habits. At the end of the three months, premenstrual syndrome problem of experimental and control group was diagnosed and the effect of pilates on premenstrual syndrome was evaluated. Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms were evaluated through Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS). The high score received from PMSS shows that the symptoms are intensive.Results: It was seen that the students in the experimental and control group were similar in terms of their aspects which were individual, health and could affect premenstrual syndrome (p > 005). A statistical significant difference was not found between total scores and sub-dimension scores of PMSS in experimental and control group (p < 0.05). It was seen that PMSS total score of experimental group was significantly lower than that of control group (p < 0.001). When in-group comparisons were examined, it was identified that PMSS scores of control group did not change at the beginning and end of exercise, but PMSS score of experimental group at the end of exercise was lower than their score received at the beginning of exercise and, the difference was statistically significant to the highest degree (p < 0.001).Conclusion: It was seen that the pilates exercises, which were practiced in this research, decreased the PMS symptoms considerably. In this regard, the pilates exercises have an important role in healing the PMS symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]