Scientia Generalis · Nov 5, 2026
Influence of practicing the Pilates method on functional capacity and quality of life in older adults: A literature review
By da Silva LKS, Araújo GC, Sipaúba LRDL
INTRODUCTION: Aging is associated with physiological changes that can compromise components of functional capacity, such as muscle strength, balance, flexibility, motor coordination, and cardiorespiratory capacity, as well as affect the quality of life of older adults. In this context, the Pilates method presents itself as an exercise modality that can be applied to the older population, making it relevant to analyze its effects on these aspects. OBJECTIVE: To understand the influence of practicing the Pilates method on functional capacity and quality of life in older adults, investigating its effects and the main instruments used to assess these variables. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an integrative literature review conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The descriptors “pilates”, “functional capacity”, “quality of life”, “muscle strength”, “coordination”, “flexibility”, “postural balance”, “older adults”, and “aging”, and their English equivalents were used. The inclusion criteria were: articles related to the topic, published between 2020 and 2025, and with an intervention design. The search yielded 355 articles, of which 10 were considered eligible and included in the review. RESULTS: The studies demonstrated favorable results in different components of functional capacity. Improvements were observed in tests such as TUG, TC6M, 30SCS test, reach, handgrip strength, BBS, and single-leg balance. Regarding quality of life, improvements were identified in the domains assessed by the WHOQOL-BREF and SF-36 questionnaires, including physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects and pain. CONCLUSIONS: The findings demonstrated a positive influence of the Pilates method on components of functional capacity and on the quality of life of older adults. Benefits were observed in interventions with a minimum duration of six weeks and a frequency of at least once per week, suggesting that the Pilates method is an efficient and safe option for older adults and may contribute to maintaining or improving functional capacity, autonomy, and quality of life.