This study aims to compare core muscle stability, postural balance, and flexibility between healthy women who regularly practice Pilates and those with a sedentary lifestyle. The researcher will evaluate if long-term Pilates practice (5 months or more) leads to significant improvements in physical performance compared to a lack of regular exercise. Assessment tools include the Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) for core activation, the McGill battery for endurance, the Y-Balance test for dynamic stability, and the Sit-and-Reach test for flexibility.
Healthy female volunteers aged 20-45.
For the Pilates group: having practiced mat Pilates, reformer Pilates, or any equipment-based Pilates discipline for at least 6 months; attending regular 60-minute sessions at least twice a week with a certified instructor.
For the control group: having a sedentary lifestyle (weekly moderate physical activity time less than 150 minutes).
Objectively demonstrating sedentary status using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); only participants in the "low physical activity" category will be included in the control group.
History of any surgery involving the spine, pelvis, or lower extremities within the last 12 months prior to the study.
Currently pregnant or less than 6 months postpartum.
Diagnosed vestibular disorders or chronic clinical balance disorders.
History of neurological disease (MS, Parkinson's, etc.) or systemic metabolic disorder (diabetes, etc.).
Healthy adult women from the general community and Pilates studios in Istanbul, Turkey.
Case-control
Prospective
Not listed
Deep Muscle Stabilization Pressure Biofeedback Device - PBU
Measurement of the transversus abdominis muscle activation using a Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU).isolation is confirmed by a drop in pressure of 4-10 mmHg from a 70 mmHg baseline, sustained for 10 seconds in prone position.
Core Muscle Endurance
Measured using the McGill Core Endurance Battery, including the Trunk Flexor, Trunk Extensor, and Side Bridge tests. Results are recorded as the duration (in seconds) the position is maintained.
Dynamic Postural Balance Y-Balance Test (YBT)
Assessed using the Y-Balance Test (YBT). The maximum reach distance in three directions (Anterior, Posteromedial, and Posterolateral) will be recorded in centimeters
Static Postural Balance Test or Single Leg Standing Test (SLST)
The participant should stand on their dominant leg with their hands on their hips. Conditions: The test is performed under two conditions: Eyes open and eyes closed. Measurement: The time it takes to maintain this balance without putting the foot down or moving it is measured in seconds.
Lower Back and Hamstring Flexibility
ssessed using the Sit and Reach Test. The reach distance is measured in centimeters using a standard test box
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
