Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 20 to 40 Women only

Postpartum weight loss with Pilates or cardio exercise

Official title: Effects of Pilates Versus Moderate Intensity Aerobic Exercises on Weight Loss, Body Mass Index and Waist to Hip Ratio in Postpartum Period.

Run by Riphah International University · NCT07642245 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether Pilates or moderate-intensity aerobic exercise helps women 6 to 24 weeks postpartum lose weight and improve body composition over 8 weeks.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages20 Years to 40 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment30 (estimated)
SponsorRiphah International University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 2, 2025
Main results expectedSeptember 2, 2026
Study endsOctober 15, 2026
Registry record updatedJune 11, 2026
Trial IDNCT07642245 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are women aged 20–40 who are 6–24 weeks postpartum with BMI >25 and medically cleared for exercise.

Probably not a fit

Individuals who cannot participate due to delivery complications, chronic illnesses, or inability to adhere to a regular exercise program may not benefit.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized trial compares two exercise approaches, Pilates and moderate-intensity aerobic activity, in women who are 6 to 24 weeks postpartum and have a BMI over 25. Participants will be assigned to one of the two groups and will follow a supervised program three times weekly for 45–60 minutes over eight weeks. The study measures changes in body weight, BMI, and waist-to-hip ratio to determine which method is more effective for postpartum weight management. Safety screening ensures participants can safely perform physical activity. Results will inform recommendations for postpartum exercise regimens.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, participants may see greater weight loss and improved body composition with one of the exercise methods, supporting healthier postpartum recovery.

How similar studies have gone: Prior research suggests exercise can aid postpartum weight loss, but direct comparison between Pilates and aerobic exercise in this setting is relatively novel.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women aged 20 to 40 years
* BMI \> 25kg/m2 at baseline
* Medically cleared by a health professional to perform physical activity
* Women 6 to 24 weeks postpartum

Exclusion Criteria:

* Women with complications during delivery (Cesarean complications, perineal tears grade 3 or 4)
* Presence of chronic disorders (diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, severe anemia)
* Neuromusculoskeletal disorders affecting physical activity
* Currently participating in another fitness program
* Postpartum depression or other psychological disorders that may affect adherence

Where it's running

  • Ghurki Teaching Hospital
    Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.