Hemodynamic and creatine kinase changes after a 12-week equipment-based Pilates training program in hypertensive women

The efficacy of Pilates method in patients with hypertension: systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to systematically review the available evidence on the effects of Pilates training programs on blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Randomized clinical trials and comparative studies were searched in four electronic databases until September 2023 (updated December 2023). The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies scales. A total of 4 randomized clinical trials and 7 comparative studies were included, showing a low (n = 1), hight (n = 6), and good (n = 4) methodological quality. Data synthesis indicated that participants who performed Pilates program obtained significantly reduces on systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, of -4.76 mmHg (95% CI: -6.55 to -2.97, p < 0.001) and -3.43 mmHg (95% CI: -4.37 to -2.49, p < 0.001), respectively, in comparison with those included in the comparison groups. When the analysis was performed by comparing hypertensive, and normotensive patients, the results remained non-significant for blood pressure (systolic blood pressure: 0.96 mmHg (95% CI: -2.85 to 4.77, P = 0.49); diastolic blood pressure: 1.18 mmHg (95% CI: -1.23 to 3.58, P = 0.34); mean blood pressure: 1.73 mmHg (95% CI: -1.96 to 5.42, P = 0.36). Evidence suggests Pilates is safe for hypertensive patients and can be part of their rehabilitation, but it may not necessarily offer superior results or improve exercise adherence compared to other modalities.

Effects of eight weeks of mat pilates training on selected hematological parameters and plasma volume variations in healthy active women

AIM

To evaluate the effects of eight weeks of mat Pilates training on selected hematological parameters, i.e. white blood cell, neutrophils, monocyte, lymphocyte, hematocrit, hemoglobin as well as plasma volume variations in healthy, active women.

METHODS

Twenty-eight women physical education students volunteered to participate in the present investigation. They were assigned to two groups: a Pilates training group (n = 14) that followed an 8-week Pilates training program, and a control group (n = 14). Blood samples were collected at rest at two separate occasions before and after Pilates training.

RESULTS

The Pilates training group had higher values of plasma volume variations and lower values of white blood cell (19.4%), neutrophils (32%), hematocrit (4.3%) and hemoglobin (4.6%) compared to control group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study suggested that Pilates training could be an effective strategy for increasing plasma volume variations and boosting immune system in healthy active women.