Author(s): KIM, D., TAE DONG, K., DONG HUN, S., GI DUCK, P., Institution: KYUNGPOOK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, Country: KOREA, SOUTH, Abstract-ID: 982

INTRODUCTION:
The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of Mat Pilates and Apparatus Pilates on body composition, basic fitness, and lumbar muscle activation in a sample of 20 healthy adult women, with the aim of determining which exercise is more effective. Additionally, the study aims to provide foundational data for the development of Mat Pilates and Apparatus Pilates exercise programs.
METHODS:
Participants in this study excluded individuals with a surgical history within the last 3 months, vascular diseases, or neurological issues. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: 10 participants in Mat Pilates and 10 participants in Apparatus Pilates. Over the course of 8 weeks, the participants engaged in exercise sessions three times a week, with each session lasting 50 minutes, totaling 24 sessions. The outcomes are as follows.
RESULTS:
Firstly, both Mat and Apparatus Pilates exercises showed significant changes in skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage compared to baseline (p<.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p>.05).
Secondly, both Mat and Apparatus Pilates exercises exhibited significant changes in muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility for basic fitness compared to baseline (p<.001). Nevertheless, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p>.05).
Thirdly, both Mat and Apparatus Pilates exercises demonstrated significant changes in lumbar muscle activation, including left and right rectus abdominis muscle, external oblique muscles, superior erector spinae muscle, and inferior erector spinae muscle, compared to baseline (p<.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p>.05).
CONCLUSION:
Through this study, it can be confirmed that an 8-week Mat and Apparatus Pilates exercise program for healthy adult women has positive effects on body composition, basic fitness, and lumbar muscle activation. Moreover, despite significant differences observed within each group from pre to post, there were no significant differences between the two groups. Therefore, it is recommended to engage in either Mat or Apparatus Pilates exercise based on individual preferences and circumstances. Considering the decreasing age range of spinal disorders among modern individuals, Pilates exercises, incorporating both Mat and Apparatus techniques, are actively encouraged for maintaining a pain-free and fulfilling life.