| Summary: | Background: the physical activity is a major strategy for improving both health and quality of life. Physical inactivity has associated with a number of health conditions including fatal cardiovascular outcomes. It is well known that Pilates exercises improve flexibility and muscle strength. However, there are no studies comparing lifestyle behaviors of Pilates practitioners and physically inactive individuals. Aim: we aimed to compare lifestyle profiles of Pilates practitioners and physically inactive women. Material and methods: the sample consisted of women practitioners of Pilates method for at least 3 months (GMP;n=22) and physically inactive women (GIF;n=22), recruited at random in a public place. Lifestyle information was collected using the Individual Lifestyle Profile and the differences were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U-test for independent samples (p<0.05). Results: women in the GMP had more healthy eating habits (nutrition dimension) and showed higher health promotion behavior scores compared to those in the GIF (p<0.001), showing a direct preoccupation with the lifestyle. In addition, women in the GMP showed higher social support scores compared to those in the GIF (p=0.002), which was not associated with Pilates classes, but rather in the daily life. Finally, GMP showed higher stress management scores (p=0.009). Conclusion: we have shown that there is an association between a better lifestyle and the regular practice of Pilates, evidencing not only the direct benefit this modality, but also a general characterization of a healthier life.
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