OBJECTIVE: the main objective was to analyze the effects that an exercise programme based on the Pilates method would have on balance confidence, fear of falling, and postural control among women >= 60 years old. METHODS: a total of 110 women (69.15 +/- 8.94 years) participated in this randomized, controlled trial that took place in Jaen (Spain). The participants were randomly assigned to either a control group (n = 55), which received no intervention, or to a Pilates group (n = 55), which carried out an exercise programme based on the Pilates method in 60-minute sessions for 12 weeks. The Falls Efficacy Scale-International and the activity-specific balance confidence scale were respectively used to assess fear of falling and balance confidence in performing activities of daily living. Postural control was evaluated using a stabilometric platform. RESULTS: Regarding balance confidence, the Pilates group showed higher values compared to the control group (77.52 +/- 18.27 versus 72.35 +/- 16.39, Cohen's d 0.030). Women in the Pilates group showed lower fear of falling, compared to those of the control group (22.07 +/- 5.73 versus 27.9 +/- 6.95, Cohen's d 0.041). Finally, concerning static balance, participants of the Pilates group experienced statistically significant improvements on the velocity and anteroposterior movements of the centre of pressure with eyes open and closed respectively (Cohen's d 0.44 and 0.35 respectively). CONCLUSION: A 12-week Pilates training programme has beneficial effects on balance confidence, fear of falling and postural stability, in elderly women.

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