Healthy AgingPLT-AER-ELDNCT07470060
Effects of Core Stability Training Using Pilates on Core Muscle Strength, Pulmonary Function, and Cardio-respiratory Fitness in the Elderly.
A study testing Mat Pilates Program and Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking) in people with Healthy Aging and Physical Fitness, run by Walailak University at 1 site in Thailand.
Trial summary
This study investigates how different types of exercise-specifically Mat Pilates and Aerobic training-can help improve the physical health and breathing capacity of healthy older adults aged 60 to 77. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 60 to 77 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Healthy Aging, Physical Fitness, Core Stability
- What is being tested?
- Mat Pilates Program and Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 29 participants
- Where
- 1 siteThailand
- Study dates
- 1 Sep 2024to 31 Mar 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 60 to 77 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Healthy older adults aged 60-77 years.
- Non-smokers.
- Capable of independent movement and daily activities.
- Not engaged in any structured exercise program for at least 6 months prior to enrollment.
- Free from dietary supplementation for at least 6 months.
- Controlled hypertension (120-159/80-99 mmHg) with physician clearance.
- Willing to provide written informed consent.
Who cannot join
- Severe cardiovascular or respiratory diseases.
- Acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, arthritis, or gout).
- Severe back pain or tendinitis that hinders exercise.
- Uncontrolled hypertension.
- Use of medications that significantly affect heart rate or physical performance.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Thailand1 site
School of Medicine, Walailak University
Nakhon Si Thammarat, Changwat Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160
About this study
Official title: Effects of Core Stability Training Using Pilates on Core Muscle Strength, Pulmonary Function, and Cardio-respiratory Fitness in the Elderly
This study investigates how different types of exercise-specifically Mat Pilates and Aerobic training-can help improve the physical health and breathing capacity of healthy older adults aged 60 to 77.
As we age, our bodies naturally experience a decline in core strength and lung function, which can make daily activities more tiring. The goal of this research is to compare whether the specialized breathing and core-strengthening techniques of Pilates provide better results for respiratory health and physical endurance than traditional treadmill walking.
Read more
Study Structure
A total of 29 participants from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, were randomly assigned to one of three groups:
Pilates Group: Practicing Mat Pilates sessions focused on core stability and controlled breathing.
Aerobic Group: Performing moderate-intensity treadmill walking.
Control Group: Maintaining their normal daily routine without a structured exercise program.
Duration \& Intensity Both exercise groups trained for 60 minutes, three times a week, over an 8-week period. By comparing these groups, the study aims to identify effective exercise options that can help seniors maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Read the detailed description
This randomized controlled trial (RCT) utilizes a three-arm parallel-group design to examine the comparative impacts of Mat Pilates and aerobic exercise on pulmonary function, core muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy older adults.
Methodology and Participants:
Twenty-nine healthy, non-smoking older adults (aged 60-77) were enrolled. Participants were stratified by sex, age, and baseline core stability (assessed via the plank test) before being randomly assigned to the Pilates Training Group (PTG), Aerobic Training Group (ATG), or Control Group (CON).
Intervention Protocol:
Pilates Group (PTG): An 8-week program consisting of 60-minute sessions, three times weekly. The sessions focus on lateral breathing mechanics and core activation ("the powerhouse"), including multi-directional stepping and trunk rotation, maintained at 55%-70% of Heart Rate Reserve (HRR).
Aerobic Group (ATG): Moderate-intensity treadmill walking for 60 minutes, three times weekly, also maintained at 55%-70% HRR.
Control Group (CON): Participants were instructed to maintain their usual lifestyle and physical activity levels.
Key Assessments:
Outcome measures include pulmonary function (spirometry: FVC, FEV1, MVV), core endurance (prone bridge test), lower and upper body flexibility (sit-and-reach and back-scratch tests), and functional aerobic capacity (6-Minute Walk Test).
The study aims to bridge the gap in clinical literature regarding which exercise modality offers superior benefits for the "core-pulmonary" synergy-the relationship between trunk stability and respiratory efficiency-in the aging population.
- Conditions
- Healthy Aging, Physical Fitness, Core Stability, Respiratory Function
- Being tested
- Mat Pilates Program, Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)
- Keywords
- Mat Pilates, Older Adults, Pulmonary Function, 6-Minute Walk Test, Core Strengthening, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Exercise Intervention
- Medical subject headings
- Respiratory Aspiration
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Mat Pilates ProgramBehavioural
A structured 8-week intervention involving 60-minute group sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute Mat Pilates (core activation, limb coordination, and lateral breathing), and 10-minute cool-down. Intensity: 55%-70% HRR.
Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)Behavioural
An 8-week aerobic program consisting of 60-minute treadmill sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute moderate-intensity walking at 55%-70% HRR, and 10-minute cool-down.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Pilates Training Group (PTG) | Experimental | Participants receive an 8-week Mat Pilates program (60 mins, 3 times/week) focused on core stability and breathing mechanics. Receives: Behavioral: Mat Pilates Program |
| Aerobic Training Group (ATG) | Active comparator | Participants perform moderate-intensity treadmill walking (60 mins, 3 times/week) at 55%-70% Heart Rate Reserve. Receives: Behavioral: Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking) |
| Control Group (CON) | No intervention | Participants maintain their usual lifestyle and daily activities without any new structured exercise program. |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Core Stability (Prone Bridge Test)
The total time that the participant can maintain a neutral spine position during the Prone Bridge (Plank) Test. This measures the endurance of the core stabilizing muscles. Unit of Measure: Seconds
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8).
Secondary outcomes (8)
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
The total volume of air that can be forcibly exhaled from the lungs after taking the deepest breath possible, measured via a calibrated computerized spirometer following ATS guidelines. Unit of Measure: Liters
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1)
The volume of air exhaled during the first second of the Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) maneuver, indicating airway patency. Unit of Measure: Liters
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
FEV1/FVC Ratio
The ratio of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second to Forced Vital Capacity, used to identify obstructive or restrictive lung patterns. Unit of Measure: Percentage
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Forced Expiratory Flow at 25-75% (FEF25-75%)
The average flow rate during the middle half of the FVC maneuver, often used as an indicator of small airway function. Unit of Measure: Liters per second
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV)
The maximum amount of air that can be inhaled and exhaled within one minute, reflecting the overall function of the respiratory system and muscle strength. Unit of Measure: Liters per minute
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
A measure of cardiorespiratory fitness and functional exercise capacity. The total distance covered by walking as far as possible on a 40-meter flat course in 6 minutes is recorded. Unit of Measure: Meters
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Lower Body Flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test)
Assessment of hamstring and lower back flexibility. Measured as the distance reached forward while sitting with legs extended. Unit of Measure: Centimeters
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Upper Body Flexibility (Back-Scratch Test)
Assessment of shoulder flexibility and range of motion. Measured as the distance between the fingertips of both hands behind the back (positive for overlap, negative for a gap). Unit of Measure: Centimeters
Measured: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted13 Mar 2026
- Study start1 Sep 2024
- Primary completion15 Mar 2025
- Study completion31 Mar 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Healthy AgingStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- A three-arm, randomized, parallel-group trial. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: Mat Pilates Training, Aerobic Training, or Control, with a 1:1:1 allocation ratio.
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 29 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Walailak University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Chulalongkorn University
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Bulin Jirapongsatorn, Master degree, Principal investigator, School of Medicine, Walailak University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07470060
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- WUEC-24-333-01
- Other IDs
- Grant Contract Number: WU67252
- Acronym
- PLT-AER-ELD
- Status last verified
- Mar 2026
- First submitted
- 8 Mar 2026
- Last updated
- 13 Mar 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No: To protect the privacy and confidentiality of the participants, individual participant data will not be made publicly available. However, the study protocol and statistical analysis plan may be shared upon reasonable request to the Principal Investigator.
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 13 Mar 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Core Stability Training Using Pilates on Core Muscle Strength, Pulmonary Function, and Cardio-respiratory Fitness in the Elderly
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07470060
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- PLT-AER-ELD / WUEC-24-333-01
- Conditions
- Healthy Aging, Physical Fitness, Core Stability, Respiratory Function
- Keywords
- Mat Pilates, Older Adults, Pulmonary Function, 6-Minute Walk Test, Core Strengthening, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Exercise Intervention
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 29 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Walailak UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Chulalongkorn University
- Study start
- 1 Sep 2024 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 31 Mar 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 13 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This study investigates how different types of exercise-specifically Mat Pilates and Aerobic training-can help improve the physical health and breathing capacity of healthy older adults aged 60 to 77.
As we age, our bodies naturally experience a decline in core strength and lung function, which can make daily activities more tiring. The goal of this research is to compare whether the specialized breathing and core-strengthening techniques of Pilates provide better results for respiratory health and physical endurance than traditional treadmill walking.
Study Structure
A total of 29 participants from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, were randomly assigned to one of three groups:
Pilates Group: Practicing Mat Pilates sessions focused on core stability and controlled breathing.
Aerobic Group: Performing moderate-intensity treadmill walking.
Control Group: Maintaining their normal daily routine without a structured exercise program.
Duration \& Intensity Both exercise groups trained for 60 minutes, three times a week, over an 8-week period. By comparing these groups, the study aims to identify effective exercise options that can help seniors maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Detailed description
This randomized controlled trial (RCT) utilizes a three-arm parallel-group design to examine the comparative impacts of Mat Pilates and aerobic exercise on pulmonary function, core muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness in healthy older adults.
Methodology and Participants:
Twenty-nine healthy, non-smoking older adults (aged 60-77) were enrolled. Participants were stratified by sex, age, and baseline core stability (assessed via the plank test) before being randomly assigned to the Pilates Training Group (PTG), Aerobic Training Group (ATG), or Control Group (CON).
Intervention Protocol:
Pilates Group (PTG): An 8-week program consisting of 60-minute sessions, three times weekly. The sessions focus on lateral breathing mechanics and core activation ("the powerhouse"), including multi-directional stepping and trunk rotation, maintained at 55%-70% of Heart Rate Reserve (HRR).
Aerobic Group (ATG): Moderate-intensity treadmill walking for 60 minutes, three times weekly, also maintained at 55%-70% HRR.
Control Group (CON): Participants were instructed to maintain their usual lifestyle and physical activity levels.
Key Assessments:
Outcome measures include pulmonary function (spirometry: FVC, FEV1, MVV), core endurance (prone bridge test), lower and upper body flexibility (sit-and-reach and back-scratch tests), and functional aerobic capacity (6-Minute Walk Test).
The study aims to bridge the gap in clinical literature regarding which exercise modality offers superior benefits for the "core-pulmonary" synergy-the relationship between trunk stability and respiratory efficiency-in the aging population.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 3
- Model description
- A three-arm, randomized, parallel-group trial. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: Mat Pilates Training, Aerobic Training, or Control, with a 1:1:1 allocation ratio.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Pilates Training Group (PTG) | Experimental | Behavioral: Mat Pilates ProgramParticipants receive an 8-week Mat Pilates program (60 mins, 3 times/week) focused on core stability and breathing mechanics. |
| Aerobic Training Group (ATG) | Active comparator | Behavioral: Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)Participants perform moderate-intensity treadmill walking (60 mins, 3 times/week) at 55%-70% Heart Rate Reserve. |
| Control Group (CON) | No intervention | –Participants maintain their usual lifestyle and daily activities without any new structured exercise program. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 60 to 77 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Healthy older adults aged 60-77 years.
- Non-smokers.
- Capable of independent movement and daily activities.
- Not engaged in any structured exercise program for at least 6 months prior to enrollment.
- Free from dietary supplementation for at least 6 months.
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Severe cardiovascular or respiratory diseases.
- Acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, arthritis, or gout).
- Severe back pain or tendinitis that hinders exercise.
- Uncontrolled hypertension.
- Use of medications that significantly affect heart rate or physical performance.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Mat Pilates ProgramA structured 8-week intervention involving 60-minute group sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute Mat Pilates (core activation, limb coordination, and lateral breathing), and 10-minute cool-down. Intensity: 55%-70% HRR. | Behavioural | Pilates Training Group (PTG) |
| Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking)An 8-week aerobic program consisting of 60-minute treadmill sessions, 3 times weekly. Includes 10-minute warm-up, 40-minute moderate-intensity walking at 55%-70% HRR, and 10-minute cool-down. | Behavioural | Aerobic Training Group (ATG) |
Primary outcome
Core Stability (Prone Bridge Test)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8).
The total time that the participant can maintain a neutral spine position during the Prone Bridge (Plank) Test. This measures the endurance of the core stabilizing muscles. Unit of Measure: Seconds
8 secondary outcomes
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
FEV1/FVC Ratio
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Forced Expiratory Flow at 25-75% (FEF25-75%)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Lower Body Flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Upper Body Flexibility (Back-Scratch Test)
Time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8)
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 13 Mar 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No. To protect the privacy and confidentiality of the participants, individual participant data will not be made publicly available. However, the study protocol and statistical analysis plan may be shared upon reasonable request to the Principal Investigator.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Bulin Jirapongsatorn, Master degree principal investigator
School of Medicine, Walailak University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Mat Pilates Program and Aerobic Exercise (Treadmill Walking) in people with Healthy Aging and Physical Fitness, run by Walailak University at 1 site in Thailand.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 7 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 13 Mar 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Thailand. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Core Stability (Prone Bridge Test) (time frame: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-intervention (Week 8).). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 13 Mar 2026.