The Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises on Core Stabilization Muscle Strength, Peak Expiratory Flow, and Chest Expansion in Women Performing Equipment-Based Pilates: A Randomized Controlled Trial
试验速览
- 阶段
- 不适用
- 状态
- 尚未招募
- 发起方
- 入组人数
- 44
- 试验地点
- 1
研究概览
简要总结
This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises on core stabilization muscle strength, peak expiratory flow (PEF), and chest expansion in women performing equipment-based Pilates.
A total of 44 healthy women aged 20 to 50 years who regularly participate in equipment-based Pilates exercises will be recruited and randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive equipment-based Pilates training combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises, while the control group will receive equipment-based Pilates training only.
Both groups will participate in supervised exercise sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks. Core stabilization muscle strength, peak expiratory flow, and chest expansion measurements will be assessed before and after the intervention period.
The findings of this study may contribute to a better understanding of the additional effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises on respiratory function and core stabilization in women performing Pilates.
详细描述
Pilates is a popular exercise approach that is widely used in both healthy individuals and various clinical populations to improve flexibility, muscular strength, postural control, and core stability. One of the fundamental principles of Pilates is coordinated breathing during movement. Appropriate breathing patterns may enhance trunk stabilization and optimize exercise performance.
The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration and also plays an important role in core stabilization through its interaction with the abdominal muscles, pelvic floor muscles, and deep spinal stabilizers. Diaphragmatic breathing exercises have been shown to improve respiratory function, chest mobility, and trunk muscle activation. However, limited evidence exists regarding the additional effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises in women who regularly perform equipment-based Pilates exercises.
The aim of this randomized controlled study is to investigate the effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercises on core stabilization muscle strength, peak expiratory flow (PEF), and chest expansion in women performing equipment-based Pilates.
Healthy women aged 20 to 50 years who regularly participate in equipment-based Pilates exercises will be recruited. Participants who meet the eligibility criteria and provide written informed consent will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive equipment-based Pilates exercises combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises, whereas the control group will receive equipment-based Pilates exercises only.
Both groups will participate in supervised exercise sessions twice weekly for a total of 8 weeks. Outcome assessments will be performed before and after the intervention period. Core stabilization muscle strength will be evaluated using a pressure biofeedback unit. Peak expiratory flow will be assessed using a peak flow meter, and chest expansion will be measured at different thoracic levels using a tape measure.
研究设计
- 研究类型
- Interventional
- 分配方式
- Randomized
- 干预模型
- Parallel
- 主要目的
- Other
- 盲法
- None
入排标准
- 年龄范围
- 20 Years 至 50 Years（Adult）
- 性别
- Female
- 接受健康志愿者
- 是
入选标准
- •Female participants aged 20-50 years. Healthy individuals regularly performing equipment-based Pilates exercises. Willingness to participate voluntarily and provide informed consent. Ability to attend Pilates sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks.
排除标准
- •History of spinal trauma or surgery within the previous 6 months. Pregnancy. Diabetes mellitus or other systemic diseases. Respiratory or musculoskeletal disorders that may affect participation or outcome measurements.
- •Cognitive or physical limitations preventing compliance with the study protocol.
- •Failure to attend scheduled sessions or complete the intervention protocol. Development of pain, injury, or any medical condition requiring discontinuation during the study.
研究组 & 干预措施
Pilates + Diaphragmatic Breathing
Participants received equipment-based Pilates training combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks. Each session lasted approximately 50 minutes and was supervised by the same physiotherapist.
干预措施: Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise (Behavioral)
Pilates + Diaphragmatic Breathing
Participants received equipment-based Pilates training combined with diaphragmatic breathing exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks. Each session lasted approximately 50 minutes and was supervised by the same physiotherapist.
干预措施: Equipment-Based Pilates Training (Behavioral)
Pilates Only
Participants received equipment-based Pilates training twice weekly for 8 weeks.
干预措施: Equipment-Based Pilates Training (Behavioral)
研究者
Nava Mokhtari
MSc Student, Physiotherapist
Istanbul Aydın University