PILATES METHOD AND RESEARCH: LITERATURE REVIEW

The aim of the study was to provide a review of Pilates Method scientific studies. A total of 70 articles were studied: 27 theoretical articles, 2 bibliography reviews, 3 clinical case studies, 1 descriptive study, and 37 intervention studies. The largest number of studies that have applied Pilates Method as an intervention program are those that used it for treating pain, followed by the studies that utilized the Pilates Method for the improvement of aerobic capacity, Body Mass Index (BMI), flexibility, and posture stability. Further, Pilates Method stands out with a high number of studies that analyze its effects, or its exercises effects, on the abdominal muscles. Regarding the populations, the largest number of studies utilized adults, followed by older adults, children, adolescents, and athletes.