Effects of Pilates on muscular endurance, flexibility and balance in young women

Abstract

Introduction: The Pilates method has enabled improvement in muscle strength, flexibility and balance, however, little is known about the effects on young people and in short periods of training. Objective: To investigate the effects of Pilates in young women, on the trunk muscle endurance, flexibility and balance. Methods: Participants were ten volunteers, with a mean of 22.5±1.80 years. Pre-and post-intervention were performed for muscle strength of the trunk flexors and extensors; flexibility in flexion of the hip and trunk flexion and extension; and static postural balance through a force platform. The interventions occurred with eight Pilates sessions over four weeks. Results: It was possible to identify a significant improvement (P<0.05) in all tests related to muscle strength and flexibility. Conclusion: Four weeks of intervention with Pilates was able to provide improved muscle strength and flexibility of the trunk of young women.