This study investigates how different types of exercise-specifically Mat Pilates and Aerobic training-can help improve the physical health and breathing capacity of healthy older adults aged 60 to 77.

As we age, our bodies naturally experience a decline in core strength and lung function, which can make daily activities more tiring. The goal of this research is to compare whether the specialized breathing and core-strengthening techniques of Pilates provide better results for respiratory health and physical endurance than traditional treadmill walking.

Study Structure

A total of 29 participants from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, were randomly assigned to one of three groups:

Pilates Group: Practicing Mat Pilates sessions focused on core stability and controlled breathing.

Aerobic Group: Performing moderate-intensity treadmill walking.

Control Group: Maintaining their normal daily routine without a structured exercise program.

Duration & Intensity Both exercise groups trained for 60 minutes, three times a week, over an 8-week period. By comparing these groups, the study aims to identify effective exercise options that can help seniors maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) utilizes a three-arm parallel-group design to examine the comparative impacts of Mat Pilates and aerobic exercise on pulmonary function, core muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy older adults.

Methodology and Participants:

Twenty-nine healthy, non-smoking older adults (aged 60-77) were enrolled. Participants were stratified by sex, age, and baseline core stability (assessed via the plank test) before being randomly assigned to the Pilates Training Group (PTG), Aerobic Training Group (ATG), or Control Group (CON).

Intervention Protocol:

Pilates Group (PTG): An 8-week program consisting of 60-minute sessions, three times weekly. The sessions focus on lateral breathing mechanics and core activation ("the powerhouse"), including multi-directional stepping and trunk rotation, maintained at 55%-70% of Heart Rate Reserve (HRR).

Aerobic Group (ATG): Moderate-intensity treadmill walking for 60 minutes, three times weekly, also maintained at 55%-70% HRR.

Control Group (CON): Participants were instructed to maintain their usual lifestyle and physical activity levels.

Key Assessments:

Outcome measures include pulmonary function (spirometry: FVC, FEV1, MVV), core endurance (prone bridge test), lower and upper body flexibility (sit-and-reach and back-scratch tests), and functional aerobic capacity (6-Minute Walk Test).

The study aims to bridge the gap in clinical literature regarding which exercise modality offers superior benefits for the "core-pulmonary" synergy-the relationship between trunk stability and respiratory efficiency-in the aging population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy older adults aged 60-77 years.
• Non-smokers.
• Capable of independent movement and daily activities.
• Not engaged in any structured exercise program for at least 6 months prior to enrollment.
• Free from dietary supplementation for at least 6 months.
• Controlled hypertension (120-159/80-99 mmHg) with physician clearance.
• Willing to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cardiovascular or respiratory diseases.
• Acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, arthritis, or gout).
• Severe back pain or tendinitis that hinders exercise.
• Uncontrolled hypertension.
• Use of medications that significantly affect heart rate or physical performance.

To protect the privacy and confidentiality of the participants, individual participant data will not be made publicly available. However, the study protocol and statistical analysis plan may be shared upon reasonable request to the Principal Investigator.

Participants and instructors could not be blinded due to the nature of exercise interventions. However, the outcome assessors and data analysts were blinded to the group assignments.