Mat Pilates vs. belly dance: Effects on cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in women with breast cancer: A randomized trial.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of 16 weeks of Mat Pilates or belly dance, compared with a control condition, on cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition in women with breast cancer undergoing hormone therapy, with follow-up at 6 and 12 months.

METHODS

In this randomized clinical trial, 52 women were allocated to Mat Pilates (n = 18), belly dance (n = 18), or control (n = 16) groups. Exercise groups trained three times per week for 60 min over 16 weeks. The control group maintained usual activities and attended educational sessions. Outcomes included peak oxygen uptake (V̇O₂peak) via submaximal cycle ergometer, 6-min walk test (6MWT), perceived exertion, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), and fat percentage (determined using ultrasound). Assessments occurred at baseline, post-intervention, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

RESULTS

Post-intervention, the belly dance group showed a greater 6MWT improvement (+83.1 m; p = 0.016) and lower perceived exertion at 35 W (p = 0.019) than controls. Waist circumference decreased across all participants (p < 0.001), with the largest reduction in the Mat Pilates group (-9.8 cm). No significant changes were observed in V̇O₂peak immediately post-intervention. At follow-up, both exercise groups showed decreased fat percentage (p = 0.002) but increased waist circumference (p < 0.001). V̇O₂peak declined in the belly dance group at both 6 and 12 months (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Mat Pilates and belly dance improved functional capacity and reduced abdominal circumference in women with breast cancer receiving hormone therapy. Despite some loss of benefits at follow-up, sustained reductions in fat percentage suggest these modalities may be valuable in oncological rehabilitation programs.

GOV REGISTRATION: NCT03194997.