Effects of multi-gravitational suspension-based therapy on posture, physical fitness, quality of life, depression, and sleep quality in women without regular exercise habits

Abstract

Background Multi-gravitational suspension-based therapy (M-Gravity) is a comprehensive discipline based on the principles of non-gravity, which serves to increase the quality of life and holistic health of the individual with the rehabilitation content of non-pressure inversion therapy and suspension systems. Aims To examine the effects of M-Gravity exercise on posture, physical fitness, quality of life, depression, and sleep quality in women without regular exercise habits. Methods This study included 20 women without regular exercise habits, who participated in M-Gravity exercise and 20 women who did not participate in any exercise program. Posture was measured by the New York posture rating chart, flexibility of the hamstring and pectoral muscles were assessed with flexibility tests, and endurance of the core muscles was measured with plank test. Depression levels were measured by Beck Depression Inventory, sleep quality was measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Nottingham Health Profile was used to measure the perceived health levels of the subjects. Measurement of the core stability was performed with the Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback. Two evaluations were made at baseline and after 4 weeks of exercise program. Results Although statistically significant results were achieved for all parameters in the M-Gravity group, no differences were observed in the control group between baseline and post-test scores (p < 0.05). Conclusions We came to the idea that eight sessions of M-Gravity program may have positive effects on posture, physical fitness and quality of life in women who do not have regular exercise habits.