Investigating the Effects of Pilates on Body Composition, Posture, and Psychosocial Parameters in Women With and Without Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Study

Background : Obesity, a health problem, is caused by insufficient physical activity and unhealthy nutrition. For individuals with obesity, non-weight-bearing and enjoyable exercises, such as Pilates, should be implemented as physical activity due to potential pain and injury. This study aims to examine the effects of an 8-week Pilates exercise program on body composition, posture, and psychosocial parameters in individuals with and without obesity. Methods : The study included 58 female participants: 30 individuals with obesity (n Pilates = 15; n Control = 15) and 28 individuals without obesity (n Pilates = 14; n Control = 14). Participants performed Pilates exercises twice a week for 8 weeks. Body mass index, body fat percentage, and posture scores were calculated, and from a psychosocial perspective Emotional Eating Scale, Social Physique Anxiety Inventory, and Self-Esteem Scales were administered before and after the 8 weeks. Results : While Pilates prevented an increase in body mass index and body fat percentage in women with obesity, it did not affect the women without obesity. Pilates improved posture scores in both groups. Additionally, Pilates reduced Emotional Eating and Social Physique Anxiety and increased Self-Esteem scores in women with obesity. No significant changes were observed in women without obesity. Conclusion : Pilates can be preferred to prevent increases in body mass index and body fat percentage in women with obesity, but detailed studies are needed regarding its effects on body composition. Pilates can be chosen to improve posture in women. Pilates can also strengthen choices to prevent obesity by increasing social adaptation through the psychosocial change it creates in women with obesity problems. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06851026).