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Pilates and PNF Methods Induces Similar Strength Gains

Not Applicable
Completed
Conditions
Sarcopenia
Registration Number
NCT02274909
Lead Sponsor
Universidade Estadual do PiauÍ
Brief Summary

To compare the influence of a training program with Pilates and PNF methods to elderly women on the strength gains and motor control during voluntary contractions

Detailed Description

Sixty healthy elderly women were randomly divided into 3 groups: Pilates group (PG), PNF group (PNFG) and Control group (CG). Pilates and PNF groups underwent one-month (three times per week) training program with Pilates and PNF methods, respectively. CG received no intervention along the one month. The maximal isometric force from knee extension and flexion, as well as the EMG signal from quadriceps and biceps femoris were recorded before and after the one-month intervention period. A two-way analysis of variance (3 groups x 2 measures) was used to compare the results from EMG signal, isometric force and force variability and force spectrum. A one-month training program with Pilates and PNF methods induces similar strength gains from knee flexors and extensors, without differences between methods, but PG exhibited greater low gamma drive (i.e., 30-60 Hz band) after the training period. Both Pilates and PNF methods were efficient to improve the muscle strength, but with different neuromuscular adaptations in elderly women. These results give support to the recommendation these methods to older age groups, since the increment of lower limb muscle strength is important for gait, postural stability and performance of daily life activities of this population.

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
COMPLETED
Sex
Female
Target Recruitment
60
Inclusion Criteria
  • All the subjects were between 60 an 80 years old, sedentary and healthy
Exclusion Criteria
  • Subjects were excluded from the study if they presented any orthopedic, neurological, cardiac, vestibular, visual, or psychiatric impairment which would not allow them to perform all the tasks in the study

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
PARALLEL
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
EMG measurementWERE MEASUREMENT BEFORE AND ONE MONTH, IN ALL PARTICPANTS
Secondary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod

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