Bagherzadeh-Rahmani (2023) Eight Weeks of Pilates Training Improves Respiratory Measures in People With a History of COVID-19: A Preliminary Study

Introduction

The study conducted by Bagherzadeh-Rahmani et al. focuses on the effects of an eight-week Pilates training program on respiratory function and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with a history of COVID-19, a condition known to potentially cause long-term respiratory issues and impact QoL negatively.

Methodology

The research employed a randomized controlled trial design involving 45 participants with post-COVID-19 pulmonary complications. They were divided into three groups: Pilates, Aqua-Pilates, and a control group. Pulmonary function was assessed using spirometry, measuring Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. QoL was evaluated using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire.

Results

Both Pilates and Aqua-Pilates groups showed significant improvements in FVC, FEV1, and the FEV1/FVC ratio compared to the control group. Specifically, enhancements in respiratory measures were around 21.4% to 34.7% across these groups. QoL scores also significantly increased in the intervention groups, with Aqua-Pilates showing a slightly higher impact than traditional Pilates.

Discussion

The findings suggest that Pilates-based exercises can serve as an effective intervention for improving respiratory health and QoL in individuals recovering from COVID-19. The study also indicates that the Aqua-Pilates variant might offer additional benefits over standard Pilates, potentially due to the resistance provided by water during exercises.

Conclusion

Pilates and Aqua-Pilates are valuable rehabilitative exercises for enhancing pulmonary function and overall QoL in post-COVID-19 patients, with Aqua-Pilates possibly being the more effective modality.

Keywords: COVID-19, pulmonary function, respiratory rehabilitation, Pilates, Aqua-Pilates, quality of life, resistance training.