Does reformer pilates exercise improve cognitive functions in sedentary women? A randomized controlled study.

Background: The reformer is an apparatus on which to perform the foot work and the body in a comfortable, nonweight-bearing supine position and keeps the muscles in balance. The aim of this randomized controlled and single-center study was to investigate the effect of reformer Pilates exercises on cognitive functions in sedentary women.

Methods: A total of 44 sedentary women aged between 24 and 50 were randomized into two groups. The reformer Pilates group received a 6-week exercise program (45 min/twice per week), while the control group didn't receive any exercise program. Outcomes measured before and after the interventions were, right/left discrimination and scores of two questionnaires: Stroop Test and The Pittsburgh SleepQuality Index.

Results: Reformer pilates group showed significant improvement in terms of the Stroop Test (STROOP) "STROOP-B" (t0 = 156; p < 0.05; Cohen d = 0.12), "STROOP-C" (U = 144.5; p < 0.05; Cohen d = 1.13) and "STROOP-D" (U = 165; p < 0.05, Cohen d = 0.40) when compared to control group. In the comparison of the results of the right-left separation in both groups, the difference values were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Similarly, in the both groups the sleep quality of the individuals improved, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The results of the current study suggest that Reformer Pilates exercises may be more effective on cognitive functions compared to no exercise intervention in sedentary women.

Clinical trial number: NCT05932004.