Pilates and Aerobic Training on Body Composition in Young Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Pilates and Aerobic Training on Body Composition in Young Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Pilates exercises have been shown to be effective for a range of outcomes; however, it is unclear whether they can effectively contribute to fat mass reduction, especially when compared with a technique known to be effective for this purpose, such as aerobic training. Furthermore, Pilates' potential for increasing lean mass also requires further investigation. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Pilates compared with aerobic training, as well as the combination of these activities, on body composition in young adults. Eighty women aged 18 to 40 years were randomized to four groups: Pilates (n = 20), aerobic (n = 20), Pilates plus aerobic (n = 20), and control (n = 20). Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), considering: total fat mass (kg), percentage of total fat mass (%), total lean mass (kg), and total lean mass adjusted for height (kg/m²). Additionally, total body mass (kg) and body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2) values were considered. The interventions were carried out for 12 weeks, three times a week, lasting 60 minutes/session. Analyses were performed by intention-to-treat and per protocol.
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