Influence of the Pilates Method and Anti-cellulite Massage for Maintaining Healthy Body Composition Parameters

The aging process leads to many changes in body composition, often without changes in body weight and body mass index (BMI). In general, with age, the percentage of body fat increases and lean body mass and bone mineral density decrease.The aim of the study was to compare basic anthropometric indicators such as weight, body fat percentage, muscle mass, skin folds and circumferences in the two groups. Two groups of subjects participated in the study. The first group of women (age 29.7 ± 6.7 years, height 165.7 ± 5.5 cm, weight 55.7 ± 2.4 kg) performed twice a week Pilates training, and the second group (age 40.3 ± 4.1 years, height 166.1 ± 4.6 cm, weight 59.1 ± 4.3 kg) are physically active women engaged in a variety of physical exercises, but conduct once a week anti-cellulite massage.Research shows that physical activity leads to benefits in terms of weight and body composition. By combining the method of body composition determination and somatotyping, the characteristic features of the body of the person could be measured and give guidelines for correction in physical activity and massage procedures. In addition, women over the age of 40 can keep their body fat percentage within normal limits by combining physical activity with anti-cellulite massage. The increase in muscle mass can continue at the age of 40 with regular exercise. Last but not least, the role of nutrition should be noted. It is extremely important for a healthy weight, but in the studied groups it is necessary to adjust the amounts of carbohydrates and proteins. Increasing the amount of carbohydrates in the form of whole grains, fruits and vegetables would contribute to increased intake of vitamins, minerals and fiber, which will have a good effect on the general condition of individuals. Reducing the amount of protein will not interfere with the normal synthesis of muscle proteins, but will support the liver, kidneys and protect the body from calcium excretion. This study provokes many more questions about the effect of both methods on weight and body composition. If it is possible to conduct planned research (cancellation of the emergency epidemic situation), it would be good to make measurements over time, which will allow to compare the effect of Pilates and anti-cellulite massage