The effects of Pilates exercise on cardiopulmonary function in the chronic stroke patients: a randomized controlled trials

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of modified Pilates exercise on cardiopulmonary function in chronic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty participants (age, 62.7 ± 7.3 years; height, 163.3 ± 8.5 cm; weight, 68.8 ± 10.3 kg) were recruited for this study, and randomly allocated to the modified Pilates exercise group (n=10) or the control group (n=10). Graded submaximal treadmill exercise test was used to examine the status of patients’ cardiopulmonary function, based on maximal oxygen intake, at the end of a patient’s exercise tolerance limit. [Results] The resting heart rates, maximal oxygen intake, and maximal oxygen intake per kilogram were significantly different after 8 weeks of modified Pilates exercise. In addition, these variables were also significantly different between the Pilates and control groups after 8 weeks. [Conclusion] This study has demonstrated that 8 weeks of modified Pilates exercise program can have a positive influence on patients with chronic stroke, potentially by enhancing the cardiopulmonary function, which may have positive implications for increasing their functional ability.

Influence of pilates training on the quality of life of chronic stroke patients

“…Various studies have reported that Pilates training exhibits positive effects, such as core strength and flexibility in the elderly 19 , 23 , 44 , 45 ) , muscle endurance 23 , 24 ) , posture improvement 44 ) , dynamic balance 16 , 19 , 29 , 41 , 46 ) etc. Based on these preceding studies, Pilates is recognized as an exercise program that is effective in restoring physical functions in stroke patients 18 ) .…”

Método Pilates na reabilitação pulmonar e condicionamento fí­sico em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica

“…Os princípios fundamentais descritos por ele são: concentração, controle, centralização, fluidez, precisão e respiração [29]. Usava-o sobretudo para o desenvolvimento da força muscular, resistência e aumento da capacidade respiratória [30].…”

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“…The other study in the afore mentioned systematic review [32] was rated as "strong" by Miranda and Marques, 2018. This study found statistical improvements in cardiopulmonary function of chronic stroke patients, as measured by graded, submaximal treadmill exercise testing in a randomised control trial of 20 participants.…”