Background and Aim: Physical and cognitive performance changes such as impairment in balance and reaction time occur with aging. In according to some studies, these disorders may be delayed by systematic physical activities. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pilates training on the improvement of balance and reaction time of sedentary adulthood men in Kermanshah city.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 40 sedentary adulthood men, aged (72.15±6.74), selected and divided into two equal groups randomly. These old men lived in Elderly centers in Kermanshah. In order to measure the participants’ balance and reaction time, static balance test stork, timed up and go test and reaction time system was used. Participants participated in a course of 8-week Pilates exercise program such as stretching movements in the muscular joints balance practicing of legs, standing on one foot and deep breathing. After assurance of normality using K-S test, independent t-test was used

  for data analysis.

Results : The results showed in comparison with control group, participation in Pilates protocol, could improve balance and reaction time in elderly men significantly (p<.0.05).

Conclusion: According to results of this study , Pilates training can improve balance and reaction time of the elderly . So to improve the cognitive and motor functions of the elderly , it can be recommended to participate in physical activities such as Pilates training .

Key Words: Pilates training, Elderly, Static balance, Dynamic balance, Reaction time