PILATES METHOD IMPROVES PHYSICAL CAPACITY AND ANTI-OXIDATIVE SYSTEM IN ELDERLY WOMEN

Abstract

Objective: The decline in physical capacity in humans occurs as a consequence of ageing. It is well established that oxidative mechanisms play a role in ageing process, leading to oxidative accumulation in tissue damage. Regular physical exercise can minimize the physiological changes that occur during aging and also contribute to improving the individual’s health and well-being. The aim of the present study is to verify the effects of resistance physical training on oxidative damage and physical capacity in elderly women who practice Pilates (P) or Strength Training (ST). Design and method: Elderly volunteer were evaluated and divided into P (68 ± 4 years age) or ST (66 ± 3 years age) groups (n = 20 per group), according to individual choice for the modality. The training protocol (moderate intensity) lasted 12 weeks, with 2 sessions of 60 minutes per week. All volunteers underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and handgrip strength (HGS) for physical and functional assessment. Blood sample was collected for the analysis of oxidative stress markers (TBARS, Carbonilated proteins, NOX and SOD activities and Frap). Results: The results show that resistance exercises in P and ST modalities are effective in inducing changes in physical composition (body weight, fat percentage and bone density did not change). On the other hand, ST was effective in reducing fat mass in upper and lower limbs and increasing HGS (+40%), while P increased lean mass in limbs and trunk. Pilates method was more efficient in increasing muscle mass throughout the body, while strength training was more efficient in allowing fat loss. Finally, Pilates method was effective in increasing SOD activity (+20%), reducing protein oxidation (17%). On the other hand, strength training implemented an increase in the antioxidant system at the end of the ROS production cascade, which seems not to have been effective in reducing lipid oxidation (Frap increased 37%, while TBARS and NOX maintained 50% and 30% higher compared to Pilates, respectively). Conclusions: The results allow us to conclude that Pilates method, for a period of 12 weeks, is effective in bringing anti-oxidative capacity and in the quality of life of sedentary elderly women.