EFFECTS OF PILATES EXERCISES AND WHOLE-BODY VIBRATION EXERCISES TRAINING ON BODY COMPOSITION, FLEXIBILITY, AND BALANCE IN HEALTHY WOMEN: RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT STUDY

Background: This study aims to compare the effects of Pilates and whole-body vibration exercise training on body composition, flexibility, balance, and functional strength of core muscles in healthy women. Methods: Thirty-six healthy women were divided into three groups: a Pilates group, a whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise group, and a control group. The Pilates group received training using the 'Reformer®,' while the WBV group used the 'Power Plate®.' Both groups trained twice a week for eight weeks, with sessions lasting 45-60 minutes each. The control group did not receive any training. Body composition was assessed using body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio, and bioelectrical impedance analysis. Sit-and-Reach Test for flexibility, Functional Reach Test for balance and Sit-ups and Modified Push-ups Test for core muscle strength. Assessments were made before and after training. Results: In group comparisons, significant differences in BMI and some bioelectrical impedance parameters were observed in the WBV group (p0.05). Flexibility showed significant differences among the three groups (p