Study of Energy Use and Exercise Intensity During Mat and Equipment-Based Pilates Compared to Walking in Adults 60 and Older

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how much energy older adults burn and how hard their bodies work during two types of Pilates exercises compared to treadmill walking. The study focuses on people aged 60 and over with regular Pilates experience. Understanding the energy cost and metabolic intensity of Pilates may help exercise professionals better prescribe Pilates for health benefits like weight management and cardiovascular fitness. Participants will complete three exercise sessions in random order mat Pilates, equipment-based Pilates, and treadmill walking at 4.8 kmh. Each Pilates session includes 9 exercises with warm-up, strengthening, and cool-down phases, lasting about 50 minutes. Mat Pilates uses body weight and accessories, while equipment-based Pilates uses specialized devices like Reformer and Cadillac. Treadmill walking sessions last 50 minutes with warm-up and cool-down periods. Throughout each session, researchers will measure oxygen consumption, energy expenditure, heart rate, and perceived exertion using a portable device. Before sessions, participants undergo body composition scans, fitness tests, and familiarization. Standardized pre-exercise meals and controlled room conditions will be maintained. The study will analyze data on metabolic intensity and energy use during and after exercise to compare the different activities.

Energy Cost and Metabolic Intensity of Pilates Exercises in Older Adults