Effectiveness of pilates on fatigue in persons with chronic conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the effectiveness of Pilates on fatigue, quality of life and physical function in persons with chronic conditions and explore potential intervention moderators. Materials and methods: PubMed, SPORTDiscus, AMED and CINAHL were systematically searched from database inception to September 2024, to identify relevant studies. Two independent reviewers screened and selected the articles and evaluated methodological quality. Studies were included if they were randomised controlled trials of Pilates to improve fatigue in persons with chronic conditions. Results: Eighteen studies involving 812 participants were included. Pilates had a significant effect on fatigue, quality of life and physical function. Meta-analyses showed Pilates had significant effect on physical function [Hedge’s g = 0.85 (95% CI: 0.30; 1.40), p = 0.01] but the effects on fatigue [Hedge’s g = −0.43 (95% CI: −0.96; 0.11), p = 0.12] and quality of life [Hedge’s g = 0.49 (95% CI: −0.40; 1.37), p = 0.28] were not significant. Interventions with smaller duration (6–8 weeks) influenced Pilates effect on fatigue. The type of chronic condition and control did not influence effect. Conclusions: Pilates has beneficial effects on physical function and may help reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in persons with chronic conditions. Pilates exercises used in rehabilitation settings can influence health outcomes.