Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing During Equipment-Based Pilates in Women

Pilates is a popular exercise approach that is widely used in both healthy individuals and various clinical populations to improve flexibility, muscular strength, postural control, and core stability. One of the fundamental principles of Pilates is coordinated breathing during movement. Appropriate breathing patterns may enhance trunk stabilization and optimize exercise performance.

The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration and also plays an important role in core stabilization through its interaction with the abdominal muscles, pelvic floor muscles, and deep spinal stabilizers. Diaphragmatic breathing exercises have been shown to improve respiratory function, chest mobility, and trunk muscle activation. However, limited evidence exists regarding the additional effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises in women who regularly perform equipment-based Pilates exercises.

The aim of this randomized controlled study is to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises on core stabilization muscle strength, peak expiratory flow (PEF), and chest expansion in women performing equipment-based Pilates.

Healthy women aged 20 to 50 years who regularly participate in equipment-based Pilates exercises will be recruited. Participants who meet the eligibility criteria and provide written informed consent will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive equipment-based Pilates exercises combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises, whereas the control group will receive equipment-based Pilates exercises only.

Both groups will participate in supervised exercise sessions twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks. Outcome assessments will be performed before and after the intervention period. Core stabilization muscle strength will be evaluated using a pressure biofeedback unit. Peak expiratory flow will be assessed using a peak flow meter, and chest expansion will be measured at different thoracic levels using a tape measure.

The primary outcome of the study is core stabilization muscle strength. Secondary outcomes include peak expiratory flow and chest expansion measurements. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the understanding of the role of diaphragmatic breathing exercises in improving respiratory function and core stabilization in women performing equipment-based Pilates and may provide evidence for the development of more effective exercise programs.

Inclusion criteria

Female participants aged 20-50 years. Healthy individuals regularly performing equipment-based Pilates exercises. Willingness to participate voluntarily and provide informed consent. Ability to attend Pilates sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks.

Exclusion criteria

History of spinal trauma or surgery within the previous 6 months. Pregnancy. Diabetes mellitus or other systemic diseases. Respiratory or musculoskeletal disorders that may affect participation or outcome measurements.

Cognitive or physical limitations preventing compliance with the study protocol.

Failure to attend scheduled sessions or complete the intervention protocol. Development of pain, injury, or any medical condition requiring discontinuation during the study.