Mat Pilates and Vascular Function in Obese Females

The Effects of Mat Pilates Training on Vascular Function in Obese Premenopausal Women With Elevated Blood Pressure

Obesity is associated with progressive decreases in arterial health and function. It is crucial to prevent or reduce the negative effects of aging on the vasculature by implementing appropriate lifestyle interventions, such as exercise training. We examined the effects of a Mat Pilates training (MPT) regimen on arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity, PWV), blood pressure (BP), wave reflection (AIx) and endothelial function in obese premenopausal women with elevated BP.

Using a parallel experimental design, participants were randomly assigned to either MPT (n=14) or non-exercising control group (n=14) for 12 weeks. Participant in the MPT group trained 3 days/week . Participants' brachial to ankle PWV (baPWV), systolic and diastolic BP, AIx, plasma NO levels were measured at baseline and after 20 weeks of their assigned intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• body mass index 30-40 kg/m2
• <1 h of regular exercise per week in the previous year
• systolic/diastolic BP: 120-129mm Hg systolic BP and ˂ 80 mm Hg for diastolic BP
• Nonsmokers

Exclusion Criteria:

• body mass index ˂30 and ≥40 kg/m2
• chronic diseases
• taking oral contraceptives
• pregnancy