Comparison of effect of eight weeks resistance and Pilates exercises on some of the physical function Indicators of women with multiple sclerosis

MS is the most common cause of neurological disabilities among young adults. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of resistance training and Pilates on some physical performance in women with MS.

 This research was semi-experimental and 33 women with MS participated (EDSS between 1 and 4). They were purposefully selected and randomly divided into two experimental groups and one control group. Exercises were done for eight weeks, three sessions a week. The resistance training group started leg flexion and extension movements, rowing, butterfly, leg press and crunches from the intensity of 40% of a maximum repetition and increased it to 60% of a maximum repetition after eight weeks. The Pilates training group also trained for 60-70 minutes three times a week for eight weeks, and the control group did not have any training. During the training, movements increased from three stations to 10 and sets from one to three. Endurance and muscle strength, balance and flexibility were evaluated before and after the training period. One-way ANOVA test to compare indicators between groups and paired t-test were used for intra-group changes. Tukey's post-hoc test was used to determine of the mean difference between the groups (P<0.05).

Statistical analysis of the findings showed; Compared to the control group, eight weeks of resistance training and Pilates caused a significant improvement in strength, muscle endurance and balance indicators. Flexibility in Pilates exercises and balance index in resistance exercises had a better effect (P<0.05).

According to the results, it is possible to suggest Pilates and resistance exercises as an effective way to improve motor function to MS patients.