Effects of Pilates-Combined Training on the Improvement of Flexibility and Pain Relief in Elite Fencers

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the effects of incorporating Pilates into the training regimen of elite fencers, focusing on enhancing flexibility and alleviating pain commonly experienced in the sport.METHODS: Twenty-five collegiate male elite fencers were stratified into two groups: a fencing training group (FT, n = 12, age = 18.92 ± 1.08, weight = 71.78 ± 7.43 kg, body mass index [BMI] = 22.32 ± 2.09 kg/m2) and a fencing-Pilates combined training group (FPT, n = 13, age = 19.92 ± 0.64, weight = 70.97 ± 9.14 kg, BMI = 22.61 ± 1.71 kg/m2). Evaluations, including body composition; physical fitness factors; shoulder strength; and joint range of motion in the upper extremities, lower extremities, neck, and spine, were conducted before and after 12 weeks of the intervention. Additionally, examinations of pain catastrophizing and anxiety levels during competitive engagements were performed.RESULTS: There were no statistical differences in body composition, physical fitness factors, or upper-limb strength between the FT and FPT groups. However, the FPT group exhibited a notable enhancement in shoulder abduction of the upper limb when holding a sword, in contrast to the unchanged metrics observed in the FT group. The positive impact of Pilates-combined treatment on flexibility extended to the neck; waist; and lower extremities, such as hip flexion, hip extension, hip abduction, medial rotation, and ankle dorsiflexion, coupled with significant improvements in psychological aspects, such as pain relief and related competition anxiety.CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that Pilates-combined treatment can have a beneficial effect on improving flexibility and pain in fencers, and verified the effectiveness of Pilates as an auxiliary training method for elite fencers.