Skip to content
What is Pilates Cadillac? - Everything About the Pilates Trapeze Table/Cadillac
What is cadillac pilates?
The Pilates Cadillac, also known as the trapeze table, was one of the original pieces of equipment designed by Joseph Pilates (the founder of the Pilates method). It resembles a bed frame on a raised platform, with a four post frame surrounding it. The frame allows for the use of hanging springs, handles, and bars which provide resistance and support to a variety of exercises.
The Pilates Cadillac was invented to offer more exercise variety and support rehabilitation. It offers a comprehensive workout, targeting muscle strength, flexibility and alignment. The machine accommodates exercises in multiple positions; lying down, standing, sitting, or even hanging. The versatility of the Cadillac makes it suitable for users of all fitness levels.
What makes the Cadillac different from other Pilates equipment?
The Cadillac stands out from other pilates equipment due to its large size and overall presence in a studio. The majority of the trapeze tables size comes from the vertical frame surrounding the bed. This frame adds a three dimensional aspect to exercises which you don’t get on machines such as the reformer. Here is how different components of the trapeze table add to the versatility:
Trapeze Bar - A Trapeze can be attached to the frames horizontal bars. It allows you to perform hanging exercises which engage your upper body and core muscles as you work against gravity.
Push-Through Bar - The push-through bar is connected to the end of the frame by springs and can be pushed or pulled making it effective for arm and leg strength, spinal articulation and stretches.
Roll Down Bar - This bar is suspended by springs from the top of the cadillac. It is often used in seating exercise where the user holds onto the bar and rolls down and back up, helping to engage the abdominal muscles and stretch the spine.
Leg and Arm Springs with Straps - The springs add resistance to exercises, helping users develop muscle control and joint stability
Aluminum Frame - The surrounding frame is what gives the Cadillac its iconic look and is what expands the range of exercises beyond any other piece of pilates equipment. The frame provides anchor points for many of the features mentioned above e.g. the trapeze.
What are the benefits of Cadillac Pilates?
The Pilates Cadillac boasts a wide variety of benefits. Among the benefits of pilates Cadillacs are:
Improves posture
The Pilates Cadillac is highly effective for improving posture. It helps to promote spinal alignment and strengthen the core muscles which support the back. The use of springs and bars encourages controlled movements, which builds the deep stabilizing muscles needed for an upright, balanced posture.
Enhances core strength
The springs, push through bar and trapeze allow users to engage the deep abdominal muscles including the transverse abdominis and obliques. The majority of exercises performed on the Cadillac require you to maintain stability and balance by engaging your core, this helps to build a stronger, more toned core.
Increases flexibility with dynamic stretching
The Cadillac is a great machine for increasing flexibility. The bars, springs and straps allow users to perform deep, controlled stretches in multiple planes. For example; the push through bar facilitates the “monkey stretch” which helps to lengthen the spine and hamstrings. Users sit below the bar and then push the bar overhead with their feet. This dynamically stretches the entire back and hamstrings.
Supports injury recovery with adaptable exercises
The adjustable resistance options on the Cadillac makes it fantastic for injury recovery. Whether recovering from back pain, joint issues, or muscular strains, the Cadillac enables users to safely engage and strengthen affected areas without overloading them. The versatility also allows practitioners to isolate specific muscle groups which may need restrengthening.
Who can practice Pilates Cadillac ?
The Pilates Cadillac is highly versatile, making it suitable for everyone from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. For example; the gentle resistance options provide a safe environment for those recovering from physical injuries, whilst the more challenging resistance options make the Cadillac great for more seasoned athletes focusing on improving specific muscle groups. The adaptability of the Cadillac makes it great for users of all experience levels and physical conditions.
What should one expect during a Cadillac Pilates session?
In a Cadillac pilates session, participants can expect a workout that requires strength, flexibility and control. If guided by a certified instructor there will be a focus on precise movements and breathing techniques.
A typical session will likely begin with gentle warm-up exercises using the roll down bar to articulate the spine and prepare the body. The session may then move onto some more difficult core strengthening exercises with the push through bar. An example may be leg presses. Depending on the level of the user, the exercises may progress onto hanging trapeze exercises that really challenge the core and upper body strength. Sessions then often end in stretching exercises that focus on improving flexibility. An example of an exercise could be the seated thigh stretch.
How does Pilates Cadillac support rehabilitation?
The Cadillac can be found in rehab centres and physiotherapy studios all around the world. This is because it is fantastic tool in supporting, low-impact movements which help to build strength without putting excess strain on the body. The adjustable springs and bars can be used to isolate and exercise certain muscle groups. The user can then gradually build strength in these areas without overloading muscles or joints. It is an great machine if you are looking to restore mobility and strength but are afraid of injury from higher impact forms of exercise.
How to get started with Pilates Cadillac?
To begin your journey with the Pilates Cadillac, start by finding a certified Pilates studio in your local area that has a Pilates Cadillac and experienced instructors. Before you begin exercising on the Cadillac it is always helpful to consult with a pilates instructor to discuss your fitness goals, any physical limitations you may have and specific areas that you may want to focus on. This will help your instructor tailor the workouts to your needs.
Always begin with introductory sessions to learn the basics. There is nothing worse and off putting than feeling out of your depth in a class. The introductory sessions help you learn fundamental movements, correct form and breathing techniques. These classes will help to build your confidence and prepare you to safely progress to more advanced exercises over time.
Other blogs you may enjoy reading: