Study on the Impact of Pilates on the Physical Health and Sleep Quality of Adolescent Patients with Anorexia Nervosa

Abstract

This study aims to explore the effect of Pilates exercise as an intervention method on improving the physical health and sleep quality of adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa. Methods: This study recruited 16 adolescent female patients with anorexia nervosa aged 15-17 years. Subjects underwent a 10-week Pilates mat exercise intervention, three times per week, lasting one hour each time. During the experiment, the health status of the subjects was monitored by professional doctors. Results: After 10 weeks of Pilates intervention, the subjects showed significant improvements in physical health indicators. There are very significant differences in indicators such as vital capacity, sit-ups and seated forward flexion (P<0.01), and there are also significant differences in standing long jump (P<0.05). Sleep quality indicators also showed an improvement trend, with the sleep latency time shortened, the number of nighttime disturbances reduced, and sleep efficiency significantly improved (P<0.05). Conclusion: Pilates exercise has moderate training intensity and focuses on breathing and body control. It is feasible to enhance the physical fitness and improve the sleep quality of adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa. Future research should further verify its effect and explore whether the improvement in sleep quality in patients with anorexia nervosa is related to the social nature of Pilates.