Pilates and Aerobic Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Flexibility, Strength, and Muscular Power in Young Adults

Pilates exercises have been shown to be effective for a range of outcomes; however, it is unclear whether they can effectively contribute to improving cardiorespiratory fitness, especially when compared with aerobic training, which is known to be effective for this purpose. Furthermore, the differences between these modalities for outcomes such as flexibility, strength, and muscular power require further investigation. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of Pilates compared to aerobic training, as well as the combination of these activities, on cardiorespiratory fitness, flexibility, strength, and muscular power in young adults. Eighty women aged 18 to 40 will be randomized to four groups: Pilates (n = 20), aerobic (n = 20), Pilates plus aerobic (n = 20), and control (n = 20). Cardiorespiratory fitness will be assessed directly to estimate V̇O2max. Trunk flexibility in flexion and extension will be measured with a fleximeter (°). Lower-limb, upper-limb, and trunk muscle strength will be assessed by isokinetic dynamometry (N.m), while lower-limb muscle power (W) will be assessed by countermovement jumping on a force platform. Interventions will be conducted for 12 weeks, three times a week, with a 60-minute session duration. Analyses will be conducted by intention-to-treat and per-protocol.