objective To observe the effects of pilates exercise and trunk strength training on the scores of VAS (visual analogue scale) and RMDQ (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire), trunk extension and ?exion strength and dynamic balance, which offers a practical-based evidence for the rehabilitation treatment for female college students with CNSLBP. Methods 45 female college students with CNSLBP were assigned to pilates group (n=22) and strength training group (n=23); the subjects in pilates group underwent pilates exercise for 12 weeks (3 times per week) and the strength training group underwent trunk strength training 12 weeks (3 times per week). Then, the scores of VAS and RMDQ, trunk strength (FPT, EPT and F/E) and dynamic balance parameter (SI, APSI and MLSI) were measured before and after exercise. Results 1) After 12 weeks exercise, compared with the pre exercise, the scores of VAS and RMDQ decreased (t=5.527, 8.775, 1.577,11.198, P<0.01 respectively); the FPT and EPT at the 30o/s and 90o/s angular velocities significantly increased (FPT: t=-2.744, -3.309, -4.074, -2.980, t=-6.876, -11.707, -6.961, -6.400, P<0.01, P<0.05) and the ratio of F/E (30o/s and 90o/s) decreased (t=5.258, 6.810, 4.283, 2.654, P<0.01,P<0.05) in the two groups; in the eye opening conditions, only APSI significantly decreased (t=2.808, P<0.05) in pilates group. in the eye closed conditions, SI, APSI and MLSI significantly decreased (t=7.718, 7.351, 7.804, P<0.01 respectively) in pilates group and only APSI decreased (t=3.395, P<0.01) in the strength training. 2) After 12 weeks exercise, compared with the strength training group, the scores of VAS and RMDQ decreased (t=5.571, 2.812, P<0.01); the 30o/s and 90o/s EPT significantly increased (t=-3.974, -3.927, P<0.01 respectively), the ratio of F/E(30o/s and 90o/s ) and SI, APSI and MLSI significantly decreased (t=2.576, 2.339, 6.309, 3.019, 2.719, P<0.05, P<0.01), there was no statistical difference in other indexes between the two groups (P>0.05 respectively). Conclusions An 12-week pilates program enhanced the trunk strength and dynamic balance ability, improved the imbalance of trunk extension and ?exion strength and ameliorated the low back pain more than a trunk strengthening exercise program among female college students with CNSLBP.