Enhancing quality of life: the role of pilates in alleviating depression and anxiety among women: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health disorders, significantly impairing individuals' quality of life. This study investigates the effects of Pilates exercises on depression, anxiety, and overall well-being in women over 50 years of age experiencing depression.Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted, involving 60 women diagnosed with depression by a psychiatrist. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=30), which engaged in 60-minute Pilates sessions three times weekly for eight weeks, or a control group (n=30), which maintained their usual routines. Depression, anxiety, and quality of life were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Questionnaire (BAQ), and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), respectively. ANOVA analysis was employed for data analysis.Results: Results indicated that Pilates training significantly reduced depression (p=0.001) and improved both physical and mental aspects of quality of life (p=0.002). However, no significant effect was observed on anxiety levels (p=0.051).Conclusion: A significant inverse relationship was found between anxiety and quality of life, as well as a direct correlation between depression and anxiety. These findings suggest that Pilates exercises may serve as an effective intervention for reducing depression and enhancing the quality of life in women suffering from depression.