Based on the current evidence, it is known that Pilates is an exercise technique that has been used mainly by women in sport, fitness and rehabilitation. Most research has been developed with women. The participation of men in the research studies is reduced and methodology rigor is low, therefore, there is insufficient evidence on the effects of this type of training in men, in addition, there are no studies that have proven the effects of a Pilates-based mat exercise with resistance band on strength of core muscles.

The main objective of this research is to identify the effects of a Pilates-based mat exercise program versus a Pilates-based exercise mat program with resistance band on the isometric strength of the core muscles in men 18 to 25 years.

Fifty-eight men will be randomly assigned to one of two Pilates exercise programs. Pilates-based mat exercise and Pilates-based mat exercise with Theraband® (blue color). Interventions will be performed three times a week for eight-weeks on alternate days. Half will perform Pilates-based mat exercise and the remaining 29 will perform Pilates-based mat exercise with Theraband®. Both groups complete eleven exercises from week one to four and twelve exercises from week five to eight.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy volunteers.
• Perform ≤150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Perform any Pilates exercise previously.
• Smoker.
• History of asthma.
• History of diabetes.
• History of hypertension.
• History of cardiovascular disease.
• History of coronary heart disease.
• Arrhythmias.
• Under medical treatment with anticoagulants, beta-blockers, calcium antagonists, bronchodilators, and/or steroids.
• Psychological, neuromotor and/or osteo-muscular conditions that may affect participation in an exercise program.
• People with metal prosthesis.