Effects of Pilates and Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Exercise on Postpartum Weight Loss and Body Composition

After childbirth, many women experience difficulty losing pregnancy-related weight, which can affect their health, self-esteem, and physical activity. Regular exercise, including Pilates and moderate-intensity aerobic exercises, is considered a safe and natural method to improve fitness and support weight loss during the postpartum period. This study aims to compare the effects of Pilates and aerobic exercise on body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and waist-to-hip ratio in postpartum women over 8 weeks. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a Pilates group or an aerobic exercise group, with both groups exercising three times weekly for 45-60 minutes. The results will then be compared to determine which exercise method is more effective.

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