Exercise is widely recommended by healthcare professionals for nearly all adults, including those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). For people with MS (pwMS), maintaining physical abilities is crucial. Better fitness before a relapse can facilitate easier and fuller recovery of abilities lost during the relapse. Additionally, exercise has been shown to help manage stress and reduce the severity of fatigue, which is the most commonly reported symptom among pwMS.
A comprehensive systematic review published in 2022 in the Journal of Clinical Medicine analyzed 20 randomized controlled trials involving 999 persons with MS. The review found that Pilates offered significant benefits across several areas. All 14 studies examining balance reported improvements after a Pilates program. Strength gains were observed throughout the body, with Pilates focusing on overall core strength while including whole-body exercises.
Walking ability improved in 10 out of 11 studies. A person was considered to walk better if they improved their walking speed. This improvement is likely due to the enhanced strength and balance that Pilates training provides. In order to walk, a person needs sufficient core and leg strength are essential for safe walking, with or without aids. Walking faster is one way to conclude that a person is walking better because faster walking speeds are associated with lower all cause mortality, improved balance, and better physical fitness1.
Fatigue, a common concern for pwMS, showed improvement in 9 out of 10 studies. While Pilates is not superior to other exercise types for fatigue management, it offers this benefit alongside its other advantages. Aerobic capacity also improved, though it’s important to note that Pilates practices vary widely. Some forms may get your heart pumping and you sweating, while others focus on flexibility and relaxation. Regular aerobic exercise is crucial for heart health and is strongly associated with fatigue improvements in pwMS, as well as reducing risks of heart disease and related conditions.
The review also found that Pilates positively affected body composition, increasing muscle mass relative to body fat. Importantly, Pilates programs demonstrate good adherence rates. This is crucial because the most effective exercise is one that people enjoy and stick with! Pilates is popular due to its low-impact nature, combining flexibility with strength training. It’s highly adaptable, with most people able to perform mat exercises at home. Virtual mat Pilates classes, such as those led by physical therapists, have also shown effectiveness in improving walking ability.
In short, Pilates offers a comprehensive approach to exercise for people with MS, addressing multiple aspects of physical health and wellbeing. Its adaptability and effectiveness make it a great option for maintaining and improving physical abilities.
Read the full study here:
- Rodríguez-Fuentes G, Silveira-Pereira L, Ferradáns-Rodríguez P, Campo-Prieto P. Therapeutic Effects of the Pilates Method in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med. 2022 Jan 28;11(3):683. doi: 10.3390/jcm11030683. PMID: 35160134; PMCID: PMC8836864.