PILATES VS AEROBIC TRAINING EFFECTS IN HYPERTENSIVES: RANDOMIZED TRIAL

ABSTRACT Introduction: The Pilates method (PM) combines slow-deep breathing with strengthening and stretching exercises. However, it has been proposed as a of physical conditioning for several decades only recently aroused academic/scientific interest, few reports the effects this intervention in hypertensive patients. Objective: to compare PM aerobic training (AT) on subjects’ blood pressure (BP), functional capacity autonomic balance. Methods: Twenty-four subjects were randomly allocated into two groups: ATG performed three 40 min sessions/week, moderate intensity (40-70% reserve HR), PMG 60 sessions/week; both during same eight weeks period. Blood (casual 24 hours), 6-minute walking test (6-MWT) balance evaluated before after intervention. Results: There was reduction systolic BP (SBP, p=0.007), diastolic (p=0.032) mean (MBP, p=0.016), measured 24h, PMG. also 24h SBP (p=0.021). had greater (-3.4 mmHg, 95% CI -6.6 -0.2) MBP (-3.3 -6.3 -0.3) than ATG. held longer distance 6-MWT. Casual no difference. Conclusion: This protocol superior AT monitored hours subjects, but better capacity. not enough change Level Evidence: I; High-quality randomized clinical trial or without statistically significant difference, narrow confidence intervals.