Impacts of pilates versus aerobic training on pulmonary function and fitness markers in healthy older adults: a randomized controlled trial
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v81.118322Keywords:
Pulmonary function, Fitness, Pilates, Older adults, FlexibilityAbstract
Introduction: Pilates has been shown to improve pulmonary function and physical fitness in older adults. However, studies directly comparing Pilates with aerobic exercise remain limited and inconclusive.
Objectives: This study investigated the effects of Pilates training and aerobic exercise on pulmonary function, core muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness in older adults.
Methodology: Twenty-nine older adults were randomly assigned to three group such as control group, Pilates group, or aerobic group. Pilates group performed Pilates, aerobic group engaged in moderate-intensity treadmill walking, and control group maintained usual routines. Both interventions were conducted for 60 minutes, three times per week, over eight weeks. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA.
Results: The results demonstrated that both Pilates and aerobic groups significantly improved pulmonary function, core muscle strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness performance compared with pre-test and control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, Pilates group showed a significant improvement core muscle strength by plank test compared with ATG groups (p < 0.05).
Discussion: Findings align with prior research, confirming that Pilates and aerobic training improves pulmonary function and physical fitness in older adults. However, participants who underwent Pilates training program produced more substantial gains across pulmonary function, core muscle strength, and flexibility.
Conclusion: Pilates and aerobic training enhance physical fitness in older adults, with Pilates offering broader benefits for healthy aging.
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