The effect of Pilates exercises on body composition: a systematic review

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this systematic review was to determine how Pilates exercises have impacted body composition (BC) on selected populations.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using the keywords 'Pilates, body composition, systematic review, literature review, overweight, obesity, healthy weight, underweight' and their combination.

Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria and after further quality analyses it was determined that there is currently poor empirical quantitative evidence indicating a positive effect of Pilates exercises on BC. Several methodological flaws were observed in the studies analyzed, including few full-text published studies looking into the effects of Pilates exercises on BC, a lack of true experimental research designs, limited standardization in measurement techniques, insufficient or no control of the nutritional status, and inconsistent instructor qualifications.

Conclusion: Well-designed research is needed to determine how Pilates exercises impact BC on selected populations.