Effects of Pilates on endurance, flexibility, balance, and posture
Dr. June Kloubec at Gustavus Adolphus College, in St. Peter, Minnesota reports her findings.
First, the details.
- 50 middle-aged adults were randomly assigned to a treatment group.
- A 1-hour Pilates class 2 times per week for 12 weeks
- A control group
- The Pilates class included the essential (basic) mat routine consisting of approximately 25 exercises focusing on muscular endurance and flexibility of the abdomen, low back, and hips.
And, the results.
- There was significant improvement in endurance and flexibility.
- There was no difference in posture and balance compared with the control group.
The bottom line?
Pilates requires neither equipment nor a high level of skill. The author tells us it’s easy to master and use.
And after 12 weeks we can expect to improve muscular endurance and flexibility using a relatively low-intensity exercise program.
Lots of Pilates videos are here.
2/11/10 20:32 JR