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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07470060

Effects of Core Stability Training Using Pilates on Core Muscle Strength, Pulmonary Function, and Cardio-respiratory Fitness in the Elderly.

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.

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Key information

Conditions

Healthy Aging Core Stability Pathologic Processes Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Physical Fitness Respiration Disorders Respiratory Aspiration Respiratory Function Respiratory Tract Diseases

Age range

60 year–77 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

School of Medicine, Walailak University

Nakhon Si Thammarat, Changwat Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand

About this study

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.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

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.

Treatment and study plan

Mat Pilates Program

Behavioral

A structured 8-week intervention involving 60-minute group sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute Mat Pilates (core activation, limb coordination, and lateral breathing), and 10-minute cool-down. Intensity: 55%-70% HRR.

Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)

Behavioral

An 8-week aerobic program consisting of 60-minute treadmill sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute moderate-intensity walking at 55%-70% HRR, and 10-minute cool-down.

Primary outcomes

  1. Core Stability (Prone Bridge Test)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8).

    The total time that the participant can maintain a neutral spine position during the Prone Bridge (Plank) Test. This measures the endurance of the core stabilizing muscles. Unit of Measure: Seconds

Secondary outcomes

  1. Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    The total volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled from the lungs after taking the deepest breath possible, measured via a calibrated computerized spirometer following ATS guidelines. Unit of Measure: Liters

  2. Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    The volume of air exhaled during the first second of the Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) maneuver, indicating airway patency. Unit of Measure: Liters

  3. FEV1/FVC Ratio

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    The ratio of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second to Forced Vital Capacity, used to identify obstructive or restrictive lung patterns. Unit of Measure: Percentage

  4. Forced Expiratory Flow at 25-75% (FEF25-75%)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    The average flow rate during the middle half of the FVC maneuver, often used as an indicator of small airway function. Unit of Measure: Liters per second

  5. Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    The maximum amount of air that can be inhaled and exhaled within one minute, reflecting the overall function of the respiratory system and muscle strength. Unit of Measure: Liters per minute

  6. Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    A measure of cardiorespiratory fitness and functional exercise capacity. The total distance covered by walking as far as possible on a 40-meter flat course in 6 minutes is recorded. Unit of Measure: Meters

  7. Lower Body Flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    Assessment of hamstring and lower back flexibility. Measured as the distance reached forward while sitting with legs extended. Unit of Measure: Centimeters

  8. Upper Body Flexibility (Back-Scratch Test)

    Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)

    Assessment of shoulder flexibility and range of motion. Measured as the distance between the fingertips of both hands behind the back (positive for overlap, negative for a gap). Unit of Measure: Centimeters

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Walailak University

Other

Collaborators

  • Chulalongkorn University

Registry information

Official study title

Effects of Core Stability Training Using Pilates on Core Muscle Strength, Pulmonary Function, and Cardio-respiratory Fitness in the Elderly

Acronym: PLT-AER-ELD

Important dates

Study start
2024
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
Mar 13, 2026
Registry last updated
Mar 13, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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