A 24-week trial comparing Pilates, aqua aerobics and sensorimotor training found the strongest overall improvements in balance, coordination and strength among older adults in the sensorimotor group. The findings offer useful context for instructors working with ageing clients, but the Pilates sample was small.

A 24-week study of adults aged 55 to 80 found that sensorimotor training produced the most consistent improvements in physical function, while aqua aerobics improved several measures of lower-body strength, mobility and flexibility. The Pilates group did not show statistically significant gains across the reported tests, although the study’s small Pilates sample limits how broadly the result can be applied.

Researchers divided 153 participants into four groups: sensorimotor training, aqua aerobics, Pilates and a non-exercising control group. Before and after the intervention, participants were assessed for strength, flexibility and performance on the Timed Up and Go test, which measures the time needed to stand, walk, turn and sit down. The sensorimotor group recorded significant improvements across the tests, while the aqua-aerobic group improved selected measures of lower-body function and mobility.

The Pilates findings should be interpreted cautiously rather than as evidence that Pilates is ineffective for older adults. Only 22 participants were assigned to the Pilates group, and most of those participants were women. The report also notes that baseline fitness, diet and medication were not considered. Differences in class design, exercise intensity, attendance and the specific Pilates programme may also affect comparisons between modalities.

For Pilates instructors and studio owners, the practical message is to avoid presenting one method as universally superior. The findings support thoughtful programming for older clients that considers balance, coordination, mobility and strength as distinct goals. Pilates may remain useful within a broader movement plan, particularly when sessions are adapted to individual ability, but this study does not establish that it reduces falls or improves health outcomes in every older adult. It also does not compare different styles or apparatus-based approaches in detail.

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Best workout for over 55s revealed in study

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