Effects of Pilates Exercise on Isokinetic Muscular Strength of Knee, Proprioception, and Static Balance in Older Women

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effects of mat Pilates on isokinetic muscular strength of knee, proprioception, and static balance in older women. Forty one sedentary, apparently healthy females aged 63-68 and older were randomly assigned into a control(CG, n = 22) or an Pilates exercise(PEG, n = 19) group. A pilates exercise program was applied to the subjects one hour per day four days per week during twelve weeks. All subjects underwent preand post-tests in which isokinetic muscular strength of knee, proprioception, and dynamic balance were assessed. Improvements were observed in balance, mobility, and upper and lower extremity muscle strength in the Pilates exercise group(p<0.05). No significant differences in any outcome measures were observed in the control group(p<0.05). In conclusion, Pilates exercises is effective in improving static balance, flexibility, reaction time, and muscle strength as well as decreasing the propensity to fall in older women.