We hear a lot these days regarding the benefits of Pilates, particularly about increasing core strength, improving posture and increasing flexibility. But what does the evidence say?
Proven Benefits of Pilates
Some of the latest research has clearly demonstrated the benefits of Pilates, particularly in those with a history of:
- chronic lower back pain
- poor balance
- osteoporosis
- ankylosing spondylosis
But was does the evidence say?
Pilates exercise has been shown to:
1. Decrease pain associated with chronic lower back pain over a 4-15 week period when compared to not doing Pilates exercise. Source: PLoS. 2014 July 9:7
2. Improve functional ability in those with chronic lower back pain compared to not doing Pilates exercise over a 4-15 week time frame. Source: PLoS. 2104 July 9:7
3. Improve balance in the over 60 age group. Source: J Aging Phys Act. 2014 Jul;22(3):342-7.
4. Improve quality of life in post-menopausal women with osteoporosis. Source: J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2013 Apr;17(2):204-11
5. Decrease disability in those with chronic lower back pain over a 6-week period compared. Source: Phys Ther. 2014 May;94(5):623-31.
Equipment Pilates has also found to be superior to mat Pilates for those people who had developed a kinesophobia (fear of movement). Source:Phys Ther. 2014 May; 94 (5) 623-31.
In all these studies Pilates was undertaken in small group classes supervised by a physiotherapist or other equally qualified instructor, twice per week over a 6-week period.
Interestingly the benefits of pilates such as a decrease in pain and increase in functional ability were noticed quite quickly (4 weeks) into the program. These benefits were also sustained for at least 9 weeks after the exercise program had been completed but then the benefits started to decline. This demonstrates the value of Pilates exercise as a lifestyle change, not just a short term fix.
Are you looking for positive changes in your everyday activities?
If you haven’t tried Equipment Pilates and would like to, why not consider our Beginners Pack to get your started!
- 1 x Initial assessment (essential to developing a tailored program)
- 2 x private Pilates classes
- 3 x group classes
- $390
Read more about building core strength
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