Methodology and Experimental Protocol for Studying Learning and Motor Control in Neuromuscular Structures in Pilates.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomechanics
• Motor Control

Background:

• Pilates is known for benefits to muscular, psychological, and cardiac health.
• Research is needed on Pilates' impact on motor learning and neuromuscular trunk stabilization.
• Understanding differences between expert and novice practitioners is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of the Pilates method on motor control and neuromuscular trunk stabilization.
• To compare experienced and inexperienced Pilates practitioners in learning specific skills.
• To analyze differences in muscle elasticity, gaze behavior, and brain activity.

Main Methods:

• Semi-randomized controlled trial with 36 Pilates practitioners.
• Assessment of motor control and learning of standing plank and side crisscross skills.
• Data collection via abdominal wall muscle ultrasound (AWMUS), shear wave elastography (SWE), gaze behavior (GA), electroencephalography (EEG), and video motion analysis.

Main Results:

• Non-linear analysis indicated greater motor control complexity in experts (higher entropy).
• Experts demonstrated enhanced stability (higher Lyapunov exponent) and coordination (lower Hurst exponent).
• Experienced practitioners showed higher transversus abdominis (TrA) muscle elasticity.

Conclusions:

• Pilates expertise is associated with distinct neuromuscular and motor control strategies.
• Objective measures reveal significant differences in muscle elasticity, gaze control, and brain activity between expert and novice practitioners.
• These findings support the efficacy of Pilates in enhancing motor learning and trunk stabilization.