Pilates is once again at the center of the debate on therapeutic exercise in oncology thanks to a review comparing its effects with other forms of physical activityThe authors conclude that, when properly programmed, it can contribute to pain relief and improved functional capacity in people with cancer.
Beyond its popularity in gyms, the method is emerging as a valid option within rehabilitation plans. According to the work, Pilates can be as effective as traditional aerobic or strength exercise in key variables such as mobility and performance in everyday tasks.
A systematic review evaluates Pilates in oncology
The analysis, led by Daihana Stefany Quintero-Lopez (Universidad Santiago de Cali) and collaborators, examined the effectiveness of Pilates compared to conventional interventions to improve pain and function in people diagnosed with cancer. The review focuses on quality of life and the ability to function in daily life.
The results suggest that Pilates, when applied clinically, can offer improvements comparable to other exercise programs. In particular, benefits were observed in mobility, postural control and pain reduction, determining aspects for autonomy after treatments.
The team points out that this modality is not just a set of exercises, but an intervention with clear structure and objectives. Evidence suggests that, with equal planning and supervision, Pilates achieves comparable results in measures of function and well-being.
Why Pilates Can Help During and After Cancer
The authors emphasize that Pilates integrates breath control with principles of core stability, alignment and coordinationThis combination could counteract musculoskeletal disorders resulting from the disease and its therapies.
By promoting the body-mind connection, the method seeks to reduce biomechanical dysfunctions and optimize movement patterns. In practice, this translates into more efficient execution of activities of daily living, with a potential impact on pain perception and functional performance.
Controlled progression and attention to detail (transitions, rhythm, range of motion) are traits that help improve mobility and stability safely, which is especially relevant for people with fatigue, stiffness or weakness after treatments.
Implications for Spain and Europe
In the European context, where the oncology exercise programs gain presence, pilates is positioned as a tool useful and complementary within multidisciplinary teams. Their inclusion may be considered in physiotherapy, rehabilitation, or therapeutic exercise units based on clinical criteria.
Individualized protocols are recommended for implementation and supervision by trained professionals (physiotherapists, sports science graduates or instructors with clinical experience), adjusting intensities and volumes to the patient's medical history and current condition.
Likewise, its adoption in healthcare settings and specialized centers in Spain and Europe requires having referral and follow-up pathways, integrating communication with oncology and primary care to ensure safety and continuity of care.
Good practices and safety considerations
Before starting, it is advisable to have the approval of the medical team and a functional assessment. From there, a gradual progression with low to moderate intensity sessions, watching for signs of fatigue, unusual pain, or dizziness.
The session may include breathing exercises, gentle trunk activation, mobility and postural control work, and strength tasks with light resistance and focus on techniqueThe use of implements or devices will be adjusted to the level and possible limitations (scars, lymphedema, neuropathy, anemia, etc.).
Patient education is key: knowing warning signs, recovery guidelines and the importance of long-term consistency helps sustain progress without taking unnecessary risks.
What the evidence says and what remains to be investigated
The review highlights that Pilates can improve quality of life and functional capacity with effects similar to other forms of structured exercise. However, heterogeneities in protocols (frequency, duration, type of exercises) that make it difficult to compare studies directly.
Larger randomized controlled trials with subgroups by cancer type and treatment, standardized outcome measurements and medium- and long-term follow-up, as well as systematic reporting of adverse events.
What a typical adapted session could look like
A reasonable scheme could alternate blocks of diaphragmatic breathing, trunk control exercises in different decubitus positions and joint mobility with a postural focus, progressively adding elastic resistance or low loads according to tolerance.
The priority is the quality of execution over the number of repetitions, with planned breaks and a symptom monitoring that allows for real-time adjustments. Collaboration between patient and professional guides progression and facilitates adherence.
The available data support Pilates as a valid option within the arsenal of therapeutic exercise in oncology, provided it is integrated into an individualized and supervised plan. Its combination of motor control, stability and body awareness provides an interesting framework for regaining functionality and improving everyday life experience after cancer.
