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

Johnson, Eric G.; Larsen, Andrea; Ozawa, Hiromi; Wilson, Christine A.; Kennedy, Karen L.

doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2006.08.008

« Previous Next »Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Volume 11, Issue 3 , Pages 238-242, July 2007

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

Loma Linda University, Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Professions, Nichol Hall Office #1900, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA

Received 26 July 2006; received in revised form 8 August 2006; accepted 10 August 2006.

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 () in dynamic balance was found in the functional reach test (FRT) mean scores in the exercise group (). The control group () demonstrated no significant change (). The results suggest that Pilates-based exercise improved dynamic balance as measured by the FRT in healthy adults.