EFFECTS OF REFORMER PILATES ON FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN WOMEN

THE EFFECTS OF REFORMER PILATES EXERCISES APPLIED IN WOMEN ON FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY, HEART RATE, BODY COMPOSITION AND QUALITY OF LIFE

This study aims to investigate the effects of reformer pilates exercises on functional capacity, heart rate, body composition, and quality of life in women. A total of 50 participants were initially enrolled; however, 44 participants completed the study. Participants were divided into intervention and control groups, and the intervention group performed reformer pilates exercises for 8 weeks.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of reformer pilates exercises applied in women on functional capacity, heart rate, body composition, and quality of life. A total of 50 healthy adult women were initially included in the study. Due to dropouts related to non-attendance, 44 participants completed the study and were analyzed, with 22 participants in the intervention group and 22 in the control group. The intervention group participated in a reformer pilates exercise program twice a week for 8 weeks, while the control group followed a home-based exercise program. Functional capacity was assessed using the 6-minute walk test. Heart rate was measured only in the intervention group at the 20th minute of the exercise session using a fingertip pulse oximeter. Body composition was evaluated using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Quality of life was assessed using the SF-12 questionnaire. All measurements were performed at baseline and after 8 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female participants aged between 20 and 40 years
• Healthy individuals capable of performing exercise
• Voluntary participation in the study
• Ability to attend Pilates sessions regularly

Exclusion Criteria:

• Male participants
• Receiving any form of physical therapy intervention
• History of surgery
• Severe spinal pathologies
• Neurological disorders
• Cardiopulmonary diseases