Effect of Pilates Intervention on the Physical Conditioning of a Ballet Dancer: A Single Case Study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this case study was to report the effect of an 8-week Pilates intervention on a ballet dancer's strength, balance, and endurance. Clinical Features: A healthy 24-year-old ballet dancer (50 kg, 1.66 meters, 12 years of practice and who had no previous experience with Pilates) presented for care. She was evaluated before and after an 8-week Pilates exercise intervention. Intervention and Outcome: The isokinetic trunk flexion and extension, electromyographic activation of multifidus and internal oblique muscles, neuromuscular efficiency, trunk muscle endurance, and body balance were evaluated. After 8 weeks, we observed increased torque levels, neuromuscular efficiency and time spent in endurance tests and improved body balance. Conclusion: The ballet dancer in this study demonstrated increased strength, balance, and endurance after an 8-week Pilates intervention.