Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Gynecology and Obstetrics

Menopause is the end of a woman's menstrual cycle and occurs around the age of 51. It has been linked to a reduction in oestrogen levels, which leads to an increase in central adiposity as well as a loss in muscular strength and endurance. Pilate exercises are part of a category of exercises known as body mind exercises, which aim to enhance both mental and physical health by improving muscular strength and flexibility. Aim: The purpose of this research was to ascertain the impact of Pilates exercises on abdominal muscular strength in postmenopausal women. Subjects: Thirty post-menopausal women with belly abdomen were choosen to participate in this research, participants were selected at random order from the faculty of physical therapy's out-patient clinic, Their ages varied from 50 to 60. Their BMI did not exceed 35Kg/m2, all of them had 2-4 parities, and their menstrual cycle had stopped at least one year ago. The subjects were split into two groups at random of fifteen participants each. Group A practised a selected exercise programme that included (static abdominal, pelvic rocking, and postural correction exercises) for 20 minutes per session twice per week for 12 weeks, while group B practised the same programme plus Pilates exercises for another 60 minutes. The outcome of this study was abdominal muscular strength (peak torque, total work, and average power) measured using an isokinetic dynamometer.Results: Peak torque, total effort, and average power in abdominal muscles increased significantly in group B who perform Pilates exercise rather than group A (p>0.001) Conclusion: Pilates training was an excellent way for postmenopausal ladies to strengthen their abdominal muscles

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