Effects of Core Stability Exercise Training Using Pilates on Lower Extremity Strength and Postural Stability in Sedentary Population

Core Stability Exercise Training Using Pilates

Abstract

Background: It has been demonstrated that the Pilates method enhances the strength of the muscles, flexibility, somatosensation, and equilibrium. To achieve total control of the mind over the body, or muscle control, each workout component encompasses Pilates, control, concentration, focusing, flow, breath, and accuracy. Pilates stimulates the muscles in a way that replicates the precise kinetic chain activation patterns found in everyday activities. Objective: To determine the effects of core stability exercise training using Pilates on the lower extremity strength and postural stability in a sedentary population. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 40 sedentary subjects aged 18 – 40 years using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The participants included were only sedentary subjects, Adults over age 18-40 years, both males and females. The exclusion criteria were any fracture, recent surgery, pregnancy, history of any serious disease and illness, and tumors. Group 1 (n=20) received the core stability training using pilates whereas Group 2 (n=20) did not receive any training. Pilates were performed 4 days per week for 1 month with 10 repetitions. The outcome measures used were the the Medical research Council grading system for strength, the star excursion balance test for postural stability and balance, and the single-leg stance test for stability. These outcomes were assessed before and after intervention. Results: Using SPSS, the Shapiro-Wilks test was used to verify the normality of the data. The data is normally distributed, according to this test. According to the descriptive statistics, the participants' ages ranged from 23.28±3.09 years for the average and standard deviation. In the current study, there were 23(57.5%) women and 17 (42.5%) men. The participants' average and standard deviation of body mass index were 23.29±4.37 . Distance reached on the star excursion balance test in each direction of both groups was compared. Conclusion: It was concluded that pilates had significant effects on improving postural stability and strength among sedentary individuals.