Investigation of Flexibility, Strength, and Posture in Women Practicing Reformer Pilates Across Different Age Groups

Primary outcomes

1. Flexibility Assessment

   Time frame: 5 weeks

   Flexibility was assessed using the Sit-and-Reach Test

2. Sørensen Test

   Time frame: 5 weeks

   This test is a widely used and reliable method for assessing the isometric endurance of the erector spinae muscles

3. Trunk Flexor Endurance Test

   Time frame: 5 weeks

   Participants were positioned in a seated posture with the trunk inclined at 60°, the knees flexed at 90°, and the arms placed either across the chest or behind the head. Participants were instructed to maintain their trunk at this angle for as long as possible, and the endurance time was recorded in seconds using a stopwatch. This test was conducted to assess the isometric endurance of the trunk flexor muscles, particularly the rectus abdominis and iliopsoas muscles

4. Lateral Bridge (Side Bridge) Test

   Time frame: 5 weeks

   Participants were positioned in a side-lying posture, supporting their body on the lower arm and the lateral aspect of the feet, maintaining the trunk in a straight line. The upper arm was placed on the hip, and participants were instructed to hold this position for as long as possible. The endurance time was recorded in seconds using a stopwatch. This test is a commonly used method to assess the isometric endurance of the oblique muscle groups and the quadratus lumborum muscles

5. Muscle Strength and Body Composition Assessments

   Time frame: 5 weeks

   In this study, the Visbody 3D body analysis system was used to evaluate participants' body composition and postural characteristics through millimetric three-dimensional scanning. The system provided segmental muscle mass analysis for the upper extremities, lower extremities, and trunk, enabling a detailed assessment of the relationship between muscle distribution and strength and endurance outcomes. In addition to body composition parameters such as body fat, fat-free mass, BMI, and visceral fat, postural variables including spinal alignment, shoulder and pelvic symmetry, pelvic tilt, and shoulder joint angles (abduction and flexion) were assessed. Overall, Visbody supplied comprehensive, multidimensional data that supported functional test results and enhanced measurement reliability.