The Cadillac – also known as a trapeze table – is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in a Pilates studio. On an elevated surface with a surrounding frame, exercises can be performed lying down, sitting, kneeling, hanging, or standing, guided by springs, bars, and a trapeze. This guide explains how a Cadillac is constructed, how it differs from a Half-Cadillac and Tower, what it is used for, and who it is suitable for.
What is a Cadillac (trapeze table)?
A Cadillac consists of a padded, elevated surface with a frame ("canopy") rising above it. Various training elements are attached to this frame, which provide resistance via springs:
- Push-through bar: for guided pushing and pulling movements from various positions.
- Leg and arm springs: for guided resistance during leg, arm, and core exercises.
- Roll-down bar: for controlled rolling up and spinal mobilization.
- Trapeze and loops: for hanging exercises and stretches.
Thanks to this combination, a single piece of equipment covers a very broad spectrum of exercises – from gentle mobilization to strengthening work.
Cadillac, Half-Cadillac, or Tower – the differences
The terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different pieces of equipment:
- Cadillac / Trapeze table: the complete unit with a surrounding frame and trapeze – maximum functionality, requires the most space accordingly.
- Half-Cadillac / Tower: a tower at one end with a push-through bar and springs – more compact, covers a large portion of Cadillac exercises without the full frame.
- Reformer with Tower (combination unit): a reformer expanded with a tower or Cadillac structure – a space-saving combination of reformer and Cadillac training.
If you are considering whether a tower attachment is sufficient for your reformer, read the guide Reformer with or without a tower.
Who is a Cadillac suitable for?
The Cadillac shows its strengths wherever versatility and guided movements are required:
- Studios: one piece of equipment for many training goals and levels – from entry-level to advanced training.
- Physiotherapy practices: movements can be finely dosed and supported or challenged by springs.
- Demanding home users: those who have the space and want the full repertoire will find the Cadillac to be the most comprehensive single piece of equipment.
For commercial requirements, you can find more information on our page for studios and in the physiotherapy overview.
What is trained on the Cadillac
The range of exercises is deliberately broad. Typical categories of movement include:
- Spinal mobilization and rolling up using the roll-down bar
- Guided pushing and pulling work with the push-through bar
- Leg and arm work with the respective springs
- Stretches and hanging exercises on the trapeze
Since the resistance can be precisely selected via springs, exercises can be either made easier or intensified. Important: For many exercises, lower spring tension increases the difficulty because more self-control is required. Have a qualified professional show you the exercises before using the equipment for the first time.
Space, safety, and maintenance
A Cadillac requires a level, stable, and non-slip surface as well as sufficient freedom of movement all around – keep at least 60 cm free on each side. Before each use, check that all springs are fully and correctly attached at both ends; a spring that is not fully closed can detach with great force. For information on how to properly care for springs, ropes, and upholstery and when to replace wear parts, please read the guides Care & Maintenance and Changing springs & wear parts.
Cadillac models from The Virtù Line
At The Virtù Line, you can find Cadillac and trapeze table models in different versions and price ranges – from more compact variants to full studio equipment, many also available as space-saving reformer-Cadillac combinations. All models can be configured in up to 28 upholstery colors. An overview with dimensions, springs, and prices per model can be found in the Cadillac collection; purely reformers can be seen in the reformer overview.
In summary
- The Cadillac (trapeze table) is one of the most versatile Pilates devices: elevated frame with push-through bar, leg/arm springs, roll-down bar, and trapeze.
- The Half-Cadillac/Tower is the compact version; a reformer with a tower combines both in a space-saving way.
- Ideal for studios, physiotherapy practices, and demanding home users with space.
- Instruction recommended before first use; always attach springs completely, maintain the device regularly.
Questions about delivery, assembly, or selection? Our Help Center is here to help, or you can arrange a private viewing in one of our showrooms.
