Remote and in-person Pilates impact on the quality of life of older adults: A controlled and randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction: Sedentary behavior and physical inactivity pose significant concerns for the elderly population due to their detrimental effects on physical autonomy and quality of life. The Pilates method practiced remotely on the ground may be a promising option to enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Objective: To compare the effects of remote and in-person Pilates solo training on older adults' quality of life (QOL) through a controlled and randomized clinical trial.

Methodology: Elderly individuals aged 60 to 70 were assigned to three groups: remote training (RT), in-person training (IT), and a control group (CG). The effect size was calculated, and comparisons were conducted using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) with a Bonferroni complementary test (α = 0.05).

Results: All groups showed improvement in most QOL domains. However, the IT group exhibited a more significant effect size in the physical, psychological, social relationships, autonomy, death, and dying domains, as well as total scores compared to the RT group.

Conclusion: Pilates practiced solo, whether in-person or remotely, enhances various aspects of older adults' quality of life. Nevertheless, in-person training demonstrates superiority for these outcomes.

Keywords: Aging; Online training; Pilates method.