Examining the Effects of Reformer Pilates Exercises on Physical Fitness and Cognitive Functions in Healthy Individuals

Summary

Pilates is an exercise method that aims to increase body awareness and improve physical fitness through controlled movements based on mind-body integration. Reformer Pilates strengthens the mind-body connection while increasing core muscle activation through equipment-assisted exercises. It is known that regular exercise has positive effects on cognitive functions through its neuroprotective and neuroplastic effects. However, the effects of Reformer Pilates on these functions have been studied in only a limited number of studies, particularly in healthy middle-aged individuals. The aim of this project proposal is to investigate the effectiveness of Reformer Pilates exercises on physical fitness and cognitive functions in healthy individuals. In this study, the effects of reformer Pilates on physical fitness and cognitive functions will be examined in healthy individuals aged 18-50. The intervention group will perform reformer Pilates twice a week for 8 weeks, while the control group will not participate in any physical activity. Body mass index, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-hip ratio, cognitive reserve, cognitive functions, reaction time, physical fitness, grip strength, and general health status will be assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks. Cognitive functions will be assessed using the cognitive reserve index, and cognitive functions will be assessed using the Stroop test-anchor form and the tracking test. Stroop test-anchor form and tracking test; reaction time will be measured using a wireless system consisting of a laser LED light emitter and a central hand control unit; physical fitness will be assessed using The Senior Fitness Test; grip strength will be measured using a hand dynamometer; and general health status will be assessed using the General Health Questionnaire-12. Data analysis will be performed using SPSS version 25.0. For comparing pre- and post-treatment outcome measures within the group, analysis will be conducted using the t-test for dependent samples (if normally distributed) or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (if not normally distributed). Effect size will be calculated to determine the impact of the exercise program. P\<0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Conditions

• Healthy Volunteers (HV)

Interventions

OTHER

Pilates exercise

The principles of centering, concentration, breathing, control, flow, and precision in the Pilates method will be explained to participants. Pelvic floor activity and lateral breathing will be taught and practiced, along with neutral spine alignment. The first and last 5 minutes of each session will consist of stretching exercises. Stretching exercises will begin with 3-5 repetitions, while strengthening and stabilization exercises will start with 6-8 repetitions, with the number of repetitions increasing each week based on participants' tolerance. Springs are attached according to the purpose and difficulty level of the exercises. Stretching exercises are performed with lighter resistance springs, while strengthening and stabilization exercises are performed with higher resistance springs. All movements will be demonstrated and explained to ensure the exercises are performed correctly. Verbal cues will be given for breath control and centering.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Inonu University

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

NON_RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

50 Years

Sex

FEMALE

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-09-01

Primary Completion

2026-02-01

Completion

2026-03-01