Abstract
Background and purpose
Pilates is a popular exercise approach which is increasingly used in the management of LBP. However, to date the evidence base remains poor with a need to define the Pilates intervention and the outcome measures required for future high quality studies. The objective of this study was to explore the client's view of participating in Pilates classes: in particular the reasons for attendance and its effects.
Methods
Purposeful sampling was used to recruit clients (n=25; 4 male and 21 female, age range 28 to 65 years) who had attended Body Control Pilates classes for at least 24 sessions. Focus group discussions were guided by pre-determined questions, these were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the thematic approach. Ethical approval was obtained for the study from the University of Ulster's School of Health Sciences.
Results
Clients attended Pilates classes mainly for the management of musculoskeletal conditions particularly low back pain. They reported that Pilates reduced pain, improved strength, flexibility, balance, core stability and body awareness. 5 main themes emerged (1) long-term commitment to Pilates (2) improved health and well-being (3) personalised form of exercise and (4) belief in the Pilates instructor (5) barriers to Pilates.
Conclusions
Pilates classes provide individually-modified exercises in a group setting and enable clients in the self-management of long term musculoskeletal conditions. The results of this study informed the design of a UK wide survey to further establish this information.
Conflicts of interest: None
Sources of funding: This study is funded by The Department for Education and Learning (DEL)
This abstract has not been previously published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting.
