Impact of Pilates on Running Mechanics

INTRODUCTION: Core strengthening, balance, and flexibility programs such as Pilates have been advocated to affect running mechanics and prevent lower extremity injuries positively. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of a 12-week mat-based Pilates exercise program on dynamic knee valgus alignment in runners. METHODS: Thirty-four young male and female adults performed a running protocol at baseline. The protocol consisted of the participants running on a treadmill at a constant five miles per hour (mph) for four minutes. Post-examination, participants were randomly assigned to a Pilates or control group (n=16 and n=18, respectively). A certified Pilates instructor gave the Pilates group a 12-week home-based program. To ensure participants in the Pilates group performed exercises correctly, the Pilates instructor conducted the first session, and provided feedback to each participant. Participants in both groups performed the same running testing protocol every four weeks. Knee valgus was measured as the medial displacement of the knee joint center during the running stance phase. Repeated measures Analysis of Variance (RepANOVA) was calculated at baseline and 4-, 8-, and 12-weeks post examinations to compare knee valgus during running.