Effects of Pilates Exercise on Salivary Secretory Immunoglobulin A Levels in Older Women

J Aging Phys Act. 2016 Jul;24(3):399-406. doi: 10.1123/japa.2015-0005. Epub 2015 Dec 14.

Abstract

We examined the effects of a Pilates exercise program on the mucosal immune function in older women. The study population comprised 12 older women who were divided into a Pilates group (PG, n = 6) and a control group (CG, n = 6). Saliva samples were obtained from both groups before and after the experimental period for salivary secretory immunoglobulin A level measurement. In addition, acute high-intensity exercises were performed before and after the three-month Pilates exercise program. After three months, salivary flow was significantly higher in the PG than in the CG. After the acute high-intensity exercises were performed following the three-month Pilates exercise program, the salivary flow rate was significantly higher at all time points. The S-IgA secretion rate significantly increased 30 min after acute high-intensity exercise performed following the three-month Pilates exercise program. This study suggests that regular participation in a moderate-intensity Pilates exercise program can increase salivary flow rate and S-IgA secretion in older women.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Exercise Movement Techniques*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin A, Secretory / metabolism*
  • Middle Aged
  • Saliva / chemistry*
  • Salivation / physiology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin A, Secretory