Effect of different Pilates workout endings on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles

Jessica Marques Da Silva,Josiele Folletto Bianchin,Adriane Vieira,Cláudia Tarragô Candotti,Emanuelle Francine Detogni Schmit

doi:10.1590/fm.2021.34117

Jessica Marques Da Silva, Josiele Folletto Bianchin + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/fm.2021.34117

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Abstract

Abstract Introduction: There are no studies that investigate whether different workout endings of the Pilates method (PM), either prioritizing the activation of powerhouse muscles or the relaxation of muscles trained during the session, affects spinal curvature. Objective: Identify the immediate effect of a PM session that ends with soft tissue mobilization or wall exercises on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles. Methods: A crossover clinical trial with 19 female Pilates practitioners that used a Flexicurve ruler to evaluate thoracic and lumbar spine curvature before and after a PM exercise protocol, and after endings that involved soft tissue mobilization using massage balls or wall exercises. The order of the different endings was chosen by random draw and the study volunteers participated in two interventions, with intervals of seven to ten days between them. Two two-way ANOVAs were performed (one for each postural variable), using the factors “assessment time” (pre-session; post-PE; post-ending) and “type of ending” (soft tissue or wall exercises). Results: There was no significant difference between the assessment times or endings for the kyphotic (p = 0.972; p = 0.747) and lumbar lordotic angles (p = 0.574; p = 0.627), respectively. Conclusion: Pilates instructors can opt for more relaxing or more active endings without affecting the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles.

Highlights

There are no studies that investigate whether different workout endings of the Pilates method (PM), either prioritizing the activation of powerhouse muscles or the relaxation of muscles trained during the session, affects spinal curvature
This study aimed to identify the immediate effect of a PM session that ends with soft tissue mobilization or wall exercises on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles
This study aimed to investigate whether ending a Pilates session with wall exercises, emphasizing the activation of powerhouse muscles to support the body,[15] or tissue mobilization with massage balls to promote relaxation,[28] has an immediate effect on kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles in the sagittal plane

Summary

Introduction

There are no studies that investigate whether different workout endings of the Pilates method (PM), either prioritizing the activation of powerhouse muscles or the relaxation of muscles trained during the session, affects spinal curvature. Objective: Identify the immediate effect of a PM session that ends with soft tissue mobilization or wall exercises on the kyphotic and lumbar lordotic angles. One of the most important principles is centering (powerhouse), which involves correctly activating muscles in the lumbopelvic region and axial elongation. These muscles are constantly activated in Pilates exercises, contributing to better spinal alignment, making it easier to execute balanced movements and improving core motor control.[9,10,11,12]. Given that spinal problems affect individuals during their most productive time of life, resulting in substantial economic costs to society,[14] investing in Pilates-type exercises may help prevent these conditions

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