The Effects of Pilates Mat Exercise on the Balance Ability of Elderly Females

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Pilates exercise on a mat and balance exercise on an unstable base of support for trunk stability on the balance ability of elderly females. [Subjects and Methods] Forty elderly women aged 65 or older were equally assigned to a Pilates mat exercise (PME) group and an unstable support surface exercise (USSE) group. They conducted exercise three times per week for 12 weeks for 40 minutes each time. In order to examine balance, sway length and the speed of the center of foot pressure were measured for one minute, and in order to examine dynamic balance, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was conducted. [Results] After the intervention, sway length, sway speed, and TUG significantly decreased in both groups. A comparison of sway speed after the intervention between the two groups revealed that the PME group showed larger decreases than the USSE group. [Conclusion] PME and USSE elicited significant effects on the static and dynamic balance of elderly female subjects, suggesting that those exercises are effective at enhancing the balance ability of this group of subjects. However, the Pilates mat exercise is regarded as being safer than exercise on an unstable base of support.

The Effects of Pilates on the Elderly: An Integrative Review

“…In terms of the type of study, the majority used experimental models, 5,7,13,15,18,[20][21][22]24,25 with only two randomized clinical trials. 13,24 The other studies were of different types, with one literature review 3 , one systematic review 12 , one pilot study 19 , one longitudinal study, 23 one case study 16, one observational study 17 and an observational prospective cohort study.…”

“…7,[12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19] This fact can be justified by the balance deficit inherent to aging, which represents a major disabling factor among this population, interfering with functionality and quality of life. The topics described below were stipulated in order to facilitate understanding of the results with respect to all the variables described in the studies analyzed.…”

“…4 Exercise programs that involve strength and balance training are considered to be responsible for maintaining the functional capacity 5 of the elderly, as well as being a preventive intervention to reduce the risk of falls in this population. 6,7 One of the physical activities recommended for this group is the Pilates method, consisting of a system of physical exercises created by Joseph Pilates which involve body movements based on six principles: breathing, control, concentration, precision, fluidity and centralization, so integrating body and mind 8 . The exercises are designed to promote improvement in posture, strength, endurance, flexibility and balance.…”

Pilates Exercise and Functional Balance in Parkinson's Disease

“…Hyun et al (2014) reported significant effects on balance by Pilates exercises and balance exercises on unstable surfaces in old women. Estimates however showed that Pilates exercises are safer and simpler to improve balance skills, especially dynamic balance, in this group [13]. Considering the higher rate of imbalance and falls in old patients with PD rather than healthy ones, this type of exercises can therefore play a key role in improving motor functions and balance in these patients [14].…”

“…Newell et al (2012), who studied the effects of Pilates exercises on balance and walking in older adults, concluded that short-term Pilates exercises can significantly improve variables associated with walking and balance and therefore reduce the risk of falls in this group [12]. Hyun et al (2014) reported significant effects on balance by Pilates exercises and balance exercises on unstable surfaces in old women. Estimates however showed that Pilates exercises are safer and simpler to improve balance skills, especially dynamic balance, in this group [13].…”