Abdominal muscles activity and core stability in Pilates exercisers

Background: Pilates is a method of exercising which aims to increase strength and flexibility but also to positively influence people’s mental state. Although its effectiveness in these areas is confirmed by numerous studies, not all the studies are conclusive and many results are inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate abdominal muscle activity in people practicing Pilates and to examine the influence of Pilates exercises on core muscle activity. Material and methods: Sixty three participants were divided into two groups. The study group (Pilates group) consisted of 50 adults (48 women and 2 men: age = 47.2 ± 12.7 years) and the control group (Non-exercising group) consisted of 13 adults (10 women and 3 men: age = 37.1 ± 13.4 years). Both groups took part in two tests: transverse abdominis (TRA) muscle activity test in the prone position and the lumbar spine stability test while moving the lower limbs in the supine position. The equipment used in the study was the Pressure Biofeedback Stabilizer (PBS). Results: The results showed no significant differences between the groups, both in the TRA muscle activity test and in the lumbar spine stability test. Conclusions: Pilates exercises do not influence the activity of the TRA muscle or the core stability as assessed by the Pressure Biofeedback Stabilizer. However, in the study group the high percentage of positive results and the relatively low percentage of poor results obtained in the TRA muscle activity test encourage further research in this area.