If you’ve ever walked into Archer Pilates and spotted a large, elevated table surrounded by a metal frame with springs, bars, and straps—you’ve just met the Pilates Cadillac. This uniquely versatile piece of equipment might look a little intimidating at first, but it’s actually one of the most powerful tools in the Pilates world for building strength, flexibility, and alignment.
In this post, we’ll explore exactly what the Pilates Cadillac is, where it came from, its amazing benefits, and how we use it in our Archer Pilates studio to support clients of all levels.
What Is a Pilates Cadillac?
The Pilates Cadillac—also known as the Trapeze Table—is a large, elevated platform with a sturdy frame that extends above and around it. Attached to the frame are springs, bars, straps, and loops that can be adjusted for a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups.
It’s called a “Cadillac” because it’s like the luxury vehicle of Pilates equipment—highly versatile, supportive, and designed for total-body training. Whether you’re doing gentle stretches or advanced acrobatics, the Cadillac meets you where you are and takes your Pilates practice to the next level.
A Brief History of the Pilates Cadillac
The Cadillac was created by Joseph Pilates, the founder of the Pilates method, during World War I. He began his work rehabilitating injured soldiers by attaching springs to hospital beds to help them build strength and recover more quickly. This innovation eventually evolved into what we now know as the Pilates Cadillac—a staple in many Pilates studios around the world, including Archer Pilates.
Joseph Pilates believed in equipment that both supports and challenges the body, allowing practitioners to develop deep core control, precise movement, and full-body strength—and the Cadillac embodies that philosophy perfectly.
Wait—Is the Pilates Tower the Same as the Cadillac?
Great question—and one we get often at Archer Pilates!
While the Pilates Tower and Pilates Cadillac share some similarities, they are not the same. The Tower is essentially a wall-mounted or Reformer-attached version of the Cadillac without the overhead frame or trapeze bar. It includes a vertical frame with springs, a roll-down bar, and arm/leg springs, making it ideal for many Cadillac-based movements—but with a smaller footprint.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Cadillac | Tower |
| Full frame/trapeze | Yes | No |
| Overhead bar/hanging work | Yes | No |
| Spring resistance | Yes (multiple points) | Yes (on vertical plane only) |
| Table included | Yes (raised, cushioned mat) | No (usually attached to Reformer or wall) |
| Space requirement | Larger | More compact |
While both are powerful tools in Pilates, the Cadillac offers a greater range of movement options, including inversions, overhead suspension work, and acrobatic exercises. At Archer Pilates, we use both based on our clients’ needs, goals, and space preferences—but the Cadillac is the most comprehensive apparatus for full-body movement, support, and challenge.
What Are the Benefits of the Pilates Cadillac?
At Archer Pilates, we love using the Cadillac because of its versatility and accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced mover, there’s something on the Cadillac for you. Here are just a few of its standout benefits:
1. Full-Body Strengthening
The Cadillac allows you to target virtually every muscle group. From upper body and arms, to core, glutes, and legs, the resistance from the springs helps build strength with control and precision.
2. Gentle Support for Injury Rehabilitation
Because it was originally designed for rehabilitation, the Cadillac is perfect for clients recovering from injury or surgery. It offers support and assistance, making it easier to build strength safely and gradually.
3. Deep Core Activation
Many Cadillac exercises focus on core stabilization, which improves posture, balance, and overall body mechanics. You’ll engage deep abdominal muscles while moving through a wide range of motion.
4. Flexibility and Mobility
Using the bars and straps, we can help you increase flexibility in the spine, hips, shoulders, and legs—with support that allows for deeper, more effective stretches.
5. Advanced Movement Possibilities
While beginners can enjoy supported movement on the Cadillac, it also offers incredible options for advanced students, including dynamic hanging exercises, inversions, and acrobatic flows that challenge strength, coordination, and control.
How We Use the Pilates Cadillac at Archer Pilates
At Archer Pilates, we offer private sessions and small-group classes that incorporate Cadillac work for clients of all fitness levels. Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to expand your practice, the Cadillac provides an exciting and supportive way to train your body.
Our highly trained instructors guide you through customized programs using the Cadillac to help you:
- Recover from injury
- Build postural strength
- Enhance athletic performance
- Improve flexibility and balance
- Feel longer, stronger, and more in control of your body
We also integrate Cadillac work into rehab-focused sessions and prenatal/postnatal Pilates, thanks to its adaptability and safety features.
Is the Pilates Cadillac Right for You?
The short answer: Yes!
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, seeking better posture, recovering from an injury, or simply wanting to take your Pilates journey further, the Cadillac is a powerful tool that meets you where you are.
If you’re curious about how the Pilates Cadillac can benefit your unique body, we’d love to show you at Archer Pilates.
Experience the Pilates Cadillac at Archer Pilates
At Archer Pilates, our mission is to help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. Come experience the luxury and versatility of the Pilates Cadillac for yourself. Book a private session with one of our expert instructors, or ask about adding Cadillac work to your
Let the Cadillac at Archer Pilates elevate your Pilates practice to new heights!