Choosing a class
What is Cadillac pilates? How it differs from the reformer, and the Cadillac reformer
In short: The Cadillac is a pilates apparatus developed by Joseph Pilates, made up of a fixed table with a frame built over it; it is also called the trapeze table. Unlike the reformer, the surface you lie on doesn't slide and the springs can be attached to the frame from different directions. A Cadillac reformer combines the two: thanks to a frame built on top of the reformer, both reformer and Cadillac movements can be done on the same machine.
In pilates studios, next to the reformer you'll often see a piece of equipment with a metal frame and hanging springs on top. This is called the Cadillac. In this article we explain what the Cadillac is, how it differs from the reformer, what a Cadillac reformer is and who it suits.
What is the Cadillac?
The Cadillac is one of the pieces of equipment developed by Joseph Pilates, the founder of the pilates method. It consists of a fixed, padded table with a four-post frame built over it. It is also known as the trapeze table. Its name is said to come from it being seen as an apparatus that "has everything", like the luxury Cadillac car of its day.
On the Cadillac, springs, bars and straps are attached to the frame at different heights and from different directions. This allows hundreds of different movements on the same apparatus, lying down, sitting, kneeling and standing.
Parts of the Cadillac
- Fixed table: The padded surface you lie on, which doesn't move.
- Frame: The vertical posts and top bars above the table; springs and straps attach here.
- Trapeze: A swing-like bar hanging from the top frame that you hold or press with your feet.
- Push-through bar: A spring-loaded bar that you push and pull. Attaching the springs from above or below can make the movement harder or support it.
- Roll-down bar: A sprung hand bar that provides support, especially in movements that articulate the spine vertebra by vertebra.
- Arm and leg springs: Springs of different tensions attached to handles or foot straps.
How is it different from the reformer?
Both are based on the same pilates principles; the difference is how the body is supported and where the resistance comes from.
| Reformer | Cadillac | |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | A carriage that slides on rails | A fixed, stationary table |
| Springs | Attached to the carriage, working horizontally | Attached to the frame; from above, below and the sides |
| Support | Springs make the movement harder or support it | Sprung bars give strong support, especially in spinal movements |
| Types of movement | Pushing and pulling against load, and balance on a moving surface | Working with hanging springs, stretching; hanging and inversions at advanced level |
| Class format | Common in group and private classes | Mostly in private or very small group classes |
What is a Cadillac reformer?
A Cadillac reformer is a combination that brings the reformer and the Cadillac together in one machine. A frame like the Cadillac's, with a trapeze, push-through bar and hanging springs, is built on top of a regular reformer. This way, both classic reformer movements and most frame-based movements can be done on the same machine.
It isn't exactly the same as a full-size Cadillac table: the surface you lie on is still the reformer's carriage. But it offers the possibilities of both machines without the studio needing space for two large pieces of equipment.
Who is it for?
- Beginners: The support of the sprung bars makes it easier to learn basic movements such as flexing and extending the spine in a controlled way.
- People who want to work on flexibility and spinal mobility: Hanging springs support the body during stretches.
- People who have reached a certain level on the reformer: Resistance from different directions gives the same muscles a new stimulus.
- Advanced students: Movements such as hanging and inversions are only done with an instructor and at the appropriate level.
Pilates is not a medical treatment. If you have an injury, a history of surgery or are pregnant, check with your doctor first.
The Cadillac reformer at Studio 4 Pilates
One of the 3 Bendis Pilates reformers at our studio in Fahrettin Altay, Izmir, is a Cadillac reformer. Depending on your level and goal, the Cadillac reformer can also be included in your programme. Our instructor Nazlı Bendeş has completed Balanced Body's Cadillac/Tower instructor training.
You can find the studio's other equipment and our class formats on our Izmir reformer pilates page.
Frequently asked
Is Cadillac pilates suitable for beginners?
Yes. The sprung bars support many movements, so the Cadillac is a good apparatus for learning basic movements with control. Advanced movements are only done with an instructor.
What is the biggest difference between the Cadillac and the reformer?
On the reformer, the carriage you lie on slides on rails; on the Cadillac the table is fixed and the springs attach to the frame from different directions.
Is a Cadillac reformer the same as a Cadillac?
No. A Cadillac reformer is a combination with a Cadillac frame built on top of a reformer. On a full-size Cadillac, the surface is a fixed table.
Can I take Cadillac reformer classes in Izmir?
One of the 3 reformers at Studio 4 Pilates is a Cadillac reformer, and it can be used in classes depending on your level and goal. For information, message us on WhatsApp at +90 545 805 09 99.