Pilates Training in the Elderly

Abstract

Aging brings along a series of musculoskeletal problems due to physiological changes. Many elderly people experience functional loss due to musculoskeletal problems. The demand for complementary, clinically effective, safe, patient-acceptable and, cost-effective therapeutic methods to reduce or partially prevent these losses is increasing day by day. Pilates is an exercise method that has beneficial effects on some health factors that are lost with aging. It is stated that it can strengthen the body against the difficulties it may encounter by strengthening the core stabilizing muscles around the pelvis and spine and improving the breathing pattern. It has been reported that Pilates has positive effects on posture, balance and fall risk, flexibility, strength, body composition and functional autonomy indicators for the advanced age group. In this review, the evidence of these most frequently studied effects of Pilates training in the elderly group is summarized in the light of the current literature.