Effect of different Pilates workout endings on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles

Abstract

Introduction: There are no studies that investigate whether different workout endings of the Pilates method (PM), either prioritizing the activation of powerhouse muscles or the relaxation of muscles trained during the session, affects spinal curvature. Objective: Identify the immediate effect of a PM session that ends with soft tissue mobilization or wall exercises on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles. Methods: A crossover clinical trial with 19 female Pilates practitioners that used a Flexicurve ruler to evaluate thoracic and lumbar spine curvature before and after a PM exercise protocol, and after endings that involved soft tissue mobilization using massage balls or wall exercises. The order of the different endings was chosen by random draw and the study volunteers participated in two interventions, with intervals of seven to ten days between them. Two two-way ANOVAs were performed (one for each postural variable), using the factors “assessment time” (pre-session; post-PE; post-ending) and “type of ending” (soft tissue or wall exercises). Results: There was no significant difference between the assessment times or endings for the kyphotic (p = 0.972; p = 0.747) and lumbar lordotic angles (p = 0.574; p = 0.627), respectively. Conclusion: Pilates instructors can opt for more relaxing or more active endings without affecting the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles.

Mat Pilates training and blood pressure reactivity responses to psychological stress: comparison between normotensive and hypertensive postmenopausal women

“…It is a complete method, which aims to work on various physical aspects, such as strength, flexibility, stretching, balance, as well as providing an adequate body posture [15]. Pilates has characteristics of resistance exercises, with concentric and eccentric phases [16], besides isometric contractions and breathing control [17]. Although, it is necessary to better understand which cardiovascular adaptations Pilates can generate in postmenopausal women, especially hypertensive ones.…”