The Importance of the Pilates Method in the Aging Process: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Population aging is a global reality, affecting both developed and underdeveloped countries. In the Brazilian context, the number of elderly people has shown a rapid increase, highlighting the importance of approaches to promote active aging. The objective of this research is to highlight the therapeutic effects of the Pilates method on the aging process. This integrative review investigates the importance of the Pilates method for elderly people over 60 years of age, as an intervention method, mainly for the active aging factor. For this purpose, a bibliographical search was carried out in the Scielo, LILACS and Pubmed databases. Considering the continuous increase in the elderly population, the results indicate that the pilates method plays a fundamental role and is a valuable tool for each individual, carried out by trained physiotherapists, being beneficial in preventing falls, in addition to improving physical and mental conditioning, being a low-impact alternative that addresses several aspects, such as mobility, flexibility, muscular strength and balance, all of these physical capabilities are important to contribute to physical fitness. The regular practice of exercises, such as Pilates, shows us to have a positive impact on the quality of life, leading to global strengthening, bringing personal autonomy, in addition to contributing to knowledge and its implications. However, it is important to highlight that the research highlighted the need for more studies to understand these long-term effects and modality.