Pilates exercise focused on ankle movements for improving gait ability in older women.

Pilates exercise is a structured physical activity that has been demonstrated to improve physical functions in older adults. The aim of this study was to determine whether Pilates exercise can improve gait, muscle strength, and mobility in community-dwelling older women. Twenty-two participants were recruited (mean 75.68 years old) to perform Pilates exercise for 30 minutes, twice a week for 10 weeks. After 10 weeks, significant improvements were observed in the spatial gait parameters, muscle strength, and range of motion of ankle (P < .05). Pilates exercise is beneficial exercise to improve gait, muscle strength, and mobility in community-dwelling older women.