The effects of Pilates-based exercise on dynamic balance in healthy adults

• Published in: Journal of bodywork and movement therapies Vol. 11; no. 3; pp. 238 - 242
• Main Authors: Johnson, Eric G., PT, DPTSc, Larsen, Andrea, DPT, Ozawa, Hiromi, DPT, Wilson, Christine A., MPT, Kennedy, Karen L., MPT
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-07-2007
• Subjects: Balance; Functional reach test; Mobility; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Pilates; Functional reach test; Mobility; Pilates; Balance
• ISSN: 1360-8592; 1532-9283
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2006.08.008

Summary Professionals in theater, athletics, and rehabilitation settings have integrated Pilates-based exercise into their practice. The Pilates method of exercise claims to have several benefits including improving posture and improving balance; however, there are few studies to support these statements. We studied the effects of Pilates-based exercise on dynamic balance in healthy adults. A certified Pilates instructor conducted all exercise sessions. After completing 10 Pilates-based exercise sessions a significant change ( P =. 01 ) in dynamic balance was found in the functional reach test (FRT) mean scores in the exercise group ( n = 17 ). The control group ( n = 17 ) demonstrated no significant change ( P =. 54 ). The results suggest that Pilates-based exercise improved dynamic balance as measured by the FRT in healthy adults.