Effects of Pilates Matwork on Physical Performance Outcomes in Brazilian Hip-Hop Dancers: A Randomized Single-Blinded Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Hip-Hop dancers face substantial physical demands due to rigorous training routines, requiring supplementary training to enhance performance, movement efficiency, and artistic longevity. However, evidence on fitness profiles and needs of Hip-Hop dancers remains limited. Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness of Classical Pilates Matwork on Brazilian Hip-Hop dancers’ abdominal strength and endurance, vertical jump height (VJH) and dynamic balance. Methods: Parallel-group, randomized single-blinded pilot study. Participants were recruited from an independent Brazilian Hip-Hop dance company and met the following criteria: ≥1 year of experience, age ≥18 years, injury-free for at least 3 months, and attendance of ≥20 of 24 sessions for the Pilates group (P_Group). The P_Group completed a 12-week Classical Pilates Matwork program (24 sessions, 2 hours/week), while the Control group (C_Group) maintained usual activities. Physical assessments included the Double Leg Lower test (DLL), Curl-up test, One-minute Sit Up test (SUT), countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ) and two Star Excursion Balance Test modifications (mSEBTtimed – mSEBTcogint). Data was analyzed using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) with gamma distribution and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Results: Twenty-two dancers were randomly assigned to P_Group (n = 11; 23.1 ± 3.5 years) and C_Group (n = 11; 22.5 ± 2.8 years). The P_Group showed significant improvements in the DLL (P = .016, d = 0.60), Curl-up test (P = .016, d = 0.63) and SUT (P < .001, d = 0.33), as well as in CMJ (P < .001, d = 0.06) and SJ (P = .008, d = 0.02). No significant changes were observed in dynamic balance, with trivial to small effects. Conclusion: A 12-week Classical Pilates Matwork program showed promising improvements on abdominal strength and endurance and small effects on VJH and dynamic balance. These preliminary findings do not establish efficacy and require confirmation in larger, adequately powered trials to clarify their practical relevance for Hip-Hop dancers.