Pilates vs Aerobic Training Effects in Hypertensives: Randomized Trial

Abstract

Introduction: The Pilates method (PM) combines slow-deep breathing with strengthening and stretching exercises. However, it has been proposed as a method of physical conditioning for several decades and only recently aroused academic/scientific interest, with few reports of the effects of this intervention in hypertensive patients. Objective: to compare PM to aerobic training (AT) effects on hypertensive subjects’ blood pressure (BP), functional capacity and autonomic balance. Methods: Twenty-four hypertensive subjects were randomly allocated into two groups: ATG performed three 40 min sessions/week, moderate intensity (40-70% of reserve HR), and PMG performed two 60 min sessions/week; both during the same eight weeks period. Blood pressure (casual and for 24 hours), 6-minute walking test (6-MWT) and autonomic balance were evaluated before and after intervention. Results: There was a reduction on systolic BP (SBP, p=0.007), diastolic (p=0.032) and mean blood pressure (MBP, p=0.016), measured on 24h, on PMG. There was also a 24h SBP reduction on ATG (p=0.021). The PMG had a greater reduction on 24h SBP (-3.4 mmHg, 95% CI -6.6 to -0.2) and MBP (-3.3 mmHg, 95% CI -6.3 to -0.3) than the ATG. ATG held a longer distance in 6-MWT. Casual BP and autonomic balance had no difference. Conclusion: This PM protocol was superior to AT on BP monitored for 24 hours in hypertensive subjects, but AT was better for functional capacity. The eight weeks of training were not enough to change the autonomic balance. Level of Evidence: I; High-quality randomized clinical trial with or without statistically significant difference, but with narrow confidence intervals.