Randomised trial, 2026
Does yoga or Pilates help reduce PMS symptoms?
Yes, both yoga and Pilates improved PMS symptoms compared to control, with yoga being more effective. Yoga significantly reduced blood pressure and heart rate, and improved breathing and mood.
What they did
A randomized controlled trial with 120 women divided into three groups: yoga (40), Pilates (40), and control (40). Researchers measured blood pressure, heart rate, breathing capacity, depression/anxiety/stress levels, and quality of life using standard questionnaires.
What they found
The yoga group showed significantly greater improvements than Pilates and control groups: systolic blood pressure decreased 7.15 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure decreased 5.72 mmHg, and heart rate decreased 5.57 beats per minute. Yoga also showed better results for breathing and psychological measures. Pilates also showed improvements compared to control.
What it means for you
Yoga may be more effective than Pilates for improving PMS symptoms, particularly for blood pressure, heart rate, and mood. This is a well-designed study with 120 women in three groups. Results were measured using standard tools, but we don't know how long the improvements last.
7.15 mmHg
Systolic blood pressure reduction (yoga group)
5.72 mmHg
Diastolic blood pressure reduction (yoga group)
5.57 bpm
Heart rate reduction (yoga group)
About the study
- Original title
- Comparative effects of yoga therapy and Pilates training on cardiopulmonary, psychological parameters and quality of life in premenstrual syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
- Authors
- M. Ranga, K. Dev
- Journal
- Comparative Exercise Physiology
- Year
- 2026
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 40
- What was tested
- Yoga therapy vs Pilates training vs control (no treatment)
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1163/17552559-bja10105
Topics
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