Effect of pilates training and quadrupedal movement training (QMT) on functional movement screening (FMS) in recreational athletes - A randomized controlled trial

Background: Functional Movement Screening is a tool to identify the risk of any injury by the basic functional movements of athletes. A recreational athlete does not perform all the movements in a correct manner which increases the chances of muscle imbalance. To improve this various training programs can be followed which include Pilates, QMT, etc. In this study we compare which exercise program, either Pilates, QMT or a regular workout regime show better results in the FMS score. There are several fitness training programs to improve performance in athletes as well as reducing the risk of injury. But exercise like Pilates and QMT are gaining more popularity in the fitness industry because of its breathing and animal flow pattern of exercises. Unfortunately, there were less evidence to support the effect of QMT in correlation with injury prevention and improvement in fitness. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Pilates training and Quadrupedal Movement Training (QMT) on Functional Movement Screening (FMS) score in recreational athletes. Method: 54 recreational athletes aged between 18 to 35 years were randomly assigned to all three groups: Pilates (n=18), QMT (n=18) and control group (n=18). Each training intervention consisted of 45 mins of training, 10 mins of warmup and 5 mins of cool down. The FMS score was assessed before and after 4 weeks of intervention using FMS tool kit. Results: The within group test results also show a difference in the FMS scores but were less significant for control group. There was a significant difference observed between the Pilates, QMT and control groups (p<0.05). Pilates group showed the most significant difference in the FMS score than either QMT or control group. Interpretation and conclusion: Our results indicate that both Pilates and QMT can be used for improving the functional movement of an athlete. But as there is control of breathing involved in Pilates, it is more effective. For an interesting workout regime, these results can serve as a guide. Keywords: FMS, Pilates, QMT, Recreational athletes