A randomized controlled trial on the effects of Pilates on bone mineral density and fat distribution in older women

Abstract - Aim The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to examine the long-term effects of Pilates exercises on body composition (i.e., bone mineral density and body fat distribution) of sedentary older women. Methods: A single blinded, randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation and per-protocol analysis was undertaken. The experimental group received Pilates exercises over six months and the control group received no intervention. Outcomes related to body composition were collected within a laboratory setting at baseline (Month 0) and after intervention (Month 6), by blinded measurers. Results: Twenty women with mean age of 64 years (SD 3) and mean body mass index of 29 kg/m2 (SD 3) completed the study protocol. According to the T-score classification, 65% of the included participants had normal bone mineral density, 25% had osteopenia and 10% had osteoporosis in the lumbar spine. After six months of Pilates exercises, there were no between-group differences in any outcome measures. Conclusion: This randomized clinical trial demonstrated that six months of Pilates exercises did not improve bone mineral density and did not change the body fat distribution of sedentary older women. The sample was mostly comprised of women with no bone mineral density impairment, and, therefore, larger randomized trials should examine the long-term effects of Pilates in a population of older women with osteoporosis.