Effect of Yoga and Pilates exercises on lumbar spine physical parameters in healthy women

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, it was aimed to examine the physical effects of participation in a Yoga and Pilates-based exercise program on the endurance and flexibility of the spine to protect the health of the lumbar region in healthy women. Methods: A total of 40 healthy women with a mean age of 41.62±6.91 years were included in the study. Participants were divided into two groups as Yoga and Pilates groups randomly. Both groups participated in an exercise program for 45 minutes a day, two days a week for 12 weeks. Sit and reach test was used to evaluate flexibility, and curl up, Static back endurance test and horizontal side bridge building test were used to evaluate endurance. Results: When both exercise groups were compared before and after treatment, statistically significant difference was found in favor of post-treatment in all measurements (p<0.001). When the comparison was made between the groups, no significant difference was found between the groups in any parameter (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of our study, it was determined that both exercise types improved both flexibility and muscle endurance performance. However, it was seen that Yoga and Pilates exercises were not superior to each other in terms of flexibility and endurance. Both Yoga and Pilates exercise methods can be used safely to protect and improve general health and especially lumbar region health.