Efeito do método Pilates sobre a marcha de mulheres adultas

Abstract

Physical abilities, such as strength and flexibility, decrease with advancing age and can compromise various daily tasks such as walking or walking. Several studies have shown that decreasing the flexibility and strength of the muscles around the hip and knee causes a limitation in flexion of these joints during the swing phase, and the length of the gait during walking. The Pilates method can be an interesting alternative way to improve the strength and flexibility of the lower limbs, as well as strengthen muscles responsible for maintaining the posture by changing the gait pattern and avoid stumbling and accidents. In this way, the objective of this research was to verify the effect of three months of the Pilates Method on the gait pattern of women between 40 and 60 years. 18 women participated in the study. The kinematic gait variables were analyzed, before and after 24 sessions of exercises of the Pilates method in the sagittal plane, by a 2D camera (JVC). The t test for repeated measurements was applied to identify differences in gait variables. The results revealed significant changes (p<0.05) in gait variables: (a) Length of the stride: PRE 1,27±0,3m – POST 1,34±0,4m; (b) Speed of March: PRE 1,38±0,10m/s – POST 1,46±0,2m/s; (c) Hip joint amplitude: PRE 37,7±1,32º – POST 39,8±1,35°; (d) Hip flexion peak: PRE 156±1,58º – POST 152,56±1,69°; (e) Joint amplitude of the knee: PRE 56,29±1,0º – POST 60,49±1,0°; (f) Knee flexion tip: PRE 117±1,0º – POST 112±1,0°. There were no changes of control p>0.05 in the variables: (a) Hip extension peak: PRE 193,7±1,9º – POST 192,3±1,8°; (b) Joint amplitude of the ankle: PRE 29,28±1,25º – POST 29,56±1,3°; (c) Ankle extension peak: PRE 127,28±1,71º – POST 127±1,97°; (d) Ankle flexion peak: PRE 98±1,50º – POST 98,56±1,90°. Significant improvements were identified in the increase of gait length, gait velocity and variables related to hip and knee joint amplitude. These variables are important for preventing stumbling and falling.