Does reformer pilates exercise improve cognitive functions in sedentary women? A randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND

The reformer is an apparatus on which to perform the foot work and the body in a comfortable, nonweight-bearing supine position and keeps the muscles in balance. The aim of this randomized controlled and single-center study was to investigate the effect of reformer Pilates exercises on cognitive functions in sedentary women.

METHODS

A total of 44 sedentary women aged between 24 and 50 were randomized into two groups. The reformer Pilates group received a 6-week exercise program (45 min/twice per week), while the control group didn't receive any exercise program. Outcomes measured before and after the interventions were, right/left discrimination and scores of two questionnaires: Stroop Test and The Pittsburgh SleepQuality Index.

RESULTS

Reformer pilates group showed significant improvement in terms of the Stroop Test (STROOP) "STROOP-B" (t0 = 156; p < 0.05; Cohen d = 0.12), "STROOP-C" (U = 144.5; p < 0.05; Cohen d = 1.13) and "STROOP-D" (U = 165; p < 0.05, Cohen d = 0.40) when compared to control group. In the comparison of the results of the right-left separation in both groups, the difference values were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Similarly, in the both groups the sleep quality of the individuals improved, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the current study suggest that Reformer Pilates exercises may be more effective on cognitive functions compared to no exercise intervention in sedentary women.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT05932004.

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