An Introduction to the Pilates Trapeze Table – What Is It?

The trapeze table, also known as the Cadillac, is an essential piece of Pilates equipment that offers both support and challenge. It is particularly beneficial for beginners and individuals recovering from injuries, as it helps them master fundamental movements with added stability. At the same time, it enables more advanced practitioners to perform some of the most demanding exercises in the Pilates repertoire.  

But how exactly does the trapeze table work, and what makes it so beneficial for your body? Below, we explore its key features, various uses, and the advantages of incorporating it into Pilates training and rehabilitation.

Key Features of the Trapeze Table  

The trapeze table, originally designed by Joseph Pilates, was the first piece of Pilates apparatus ever created. It remains the largest and most striking among all Pilates equipment.  

A Historical Innovation  

Joseph Pilates first developed the trapeze table using hospital beds and springs while assisting fellow inmates in an internment camp during World War I. His goal was to help bedridden patients regain strength through controlled movements.  

Design & Structure  

Despite its name, the trapeze table resembles an old-fashioned four-poster bed rather than a typical table. Its key components include:  

- A leather-clad table (or “bed”) as the base for lying, sitting, or kneeling.  

- A metal frame with four upright posts, each lined with metal loops that serve as attachment points for springs.  

- A trapeze bar and fluffy stirrups, suspended above the table, used for hanging exercises.  

- A push bar at one end for resistance-based movements.  

- A cross bar at the opposite end to provide additional stability and support.  

Versatile Functionality  

Thanks to its adjustable springs, bars, and attachments, the trapeze table allows for an endless variety of exercises—ranging from gentle rehabilitation movements to advanced acrobatic-style Pilates routines.

How Does It Work?  

The Pilates trapeze table may have a simple design, but that’s precisely what makes it such a versatile and effective piece of equipment.  

The Springs  

The table features springs of varying tensions that can be easily attached to loops along the metal uprights. These loops allow for exercises that strengthen and mobilize the joints in the arms and legs, such as arm and leg circles.  

With multiple attachment points, the springs' height can be easily adjusted, enabling exercises in various positions—lying down, side-lying, kneeling, or standing. Additionally, springs can be connected to the crossbar, which can be raised or lowered to suit different exercises, heights, or skill levels.  

The push bar, equipped with adjustable springs of different tensions, helps modify the difficulty of exercises. It can be used with both hands and feet, supporting everything from fundamental movements to more advanced challenges.  

The Trapeze Swing  

The trapeze swing hangs from the top of the frame and offers multiple exercise options. A common use involves bridge-style movements that enhance spine mobility. For an added challenge, users can place their feet on the swing in a standing position to improve hamstring flexibility.  

The Metal Frame  

The sturdy metal frame supports various “hanging” exercises, such as pull-ups, which build upper body strength. Additionally, the two fluffy stirrups attached to the top of the frame allow for hanging exercises that help decompress the spine.  

5 Pilates Trapeze Table Exercises to Try  

1. Roll Down Series  

The roll-down series is an excellent exercise for enhancing spinal mobility. It involves rolling down from the base of your spine to the top, slowly lowering yourself onto the bed. As you descend, the resistance from the springs provides both support and feedback, helping you control your movement against gravity. On the way back up, your abdominal muscles engage to lift you, while the springs assist by reducing some of the load. This exercise is a great foundation for the mat-based roll-up, which requires the same movement but without any assistance.  

2. Seated Push-Through  

At first glance, the seated push-through may seem simple, but don’t be fooled—it’s deceptively challenging! Pressing down on the bar against resistance activates your core muscles. As you reach the bar forward, you experience a deep stretch through your calves, hamstrings, and spinal muscles. Returning to the starting position requires control, as you work against the springs, engaging your abdominals eccentrically (lengthening under tension).  

3. Thigh Stretch  

The thigh stretch is more than just a flexibility exercise! While it stretches the front of the thighs in a high-kneeling position, it also challenges your core strength. As you lean back diagonally, your abdominals and deep neck muscles work to maintain proper alignment of your ribs over your hips. Holding onto the bar provides spatial awareness and stability, while pressing down engages your core and strengthens the muscles in the back of your arms.  

4. Teaser  

The teaser is a classic Pilates move that targets the abdominals. On the trapeze table, you can modify this exercise to match different skill levels. Using the push-through bar, which is attached to springs, adds resistance and assists in lifting the upper body against gravity. Beginners can start with their feet resting on the bed, then gradually progress to lifting one leg at a time, eventually working towards the full teaser with both legs elevated.  

5. Hanging  

Hanging is an advanced exercise that builds grip strength, shoulder stability, and overall back strength. This backbend movement engages the entire posterior chain (the muscles along the back of the body) while also demanding flexibility in the front of the hips. It’s an excellent counterbalance to the rounded posture often caused by prolonged sitting. However, due to its intensity, hanging should be approached gradually, with consistent training over time.  

Benefits of the Pilates Trapeze Table  

Supportive for Rehabilitation  

The Pilates trapeze table is an incredibly supportive and versatile piece of equipment, making it highly beneficial for rehabilitation.  

Unlike the reformer bed, which features an unstable moving carriage, the trapeze table provides a fixed, solid base. This stability makes certain exercises more accessible, particularly for individuals recovering from injury or those new to Pilates.  

For example, roll-down exercises, which promote spinal mobility and strengthen the abdominals, can be performed on both the trapeze table and the reformer. However, they are often easier to execute on the trapeze table due to its stable surface.  

Additionally, the trapeze table’s metal frame allows springs to be attached from various angles—including overhead—to assist movement and reduce strain on the joints. This level of support is crucial for rehabilitation, helping clients regain strength and mobility with greater ease.  

For physiotherapists trained in Pilates, the elevated bed and sturdy frame provide the perfect setup for combining manual therapy with guided movement, enhancing the rehabilitation process. As a result, individuals facing physical challenges—whether from injury, illness, or mobility limitations—can greatly benefit from practicing Pilates on this apparatus.  

Ideal for Advanced Training  

Despite its effectiveness in rehabilitation, the trapeze table is not just for beginners or those recovering from injuries. It also supports some of the most advanced and acrobatic movements in Pilates.  

The metal frame allows for challenging exercises such as hanging spine extensions and flexions, which require significant core strength, flexibility, and control. These movements not only look impressive but also deliver exceptional benefits for spinal mobility, posture, and overall body strength.  

Whether you’re looking for gentle support during recovery or seeking to push your Pilates practice to new heights, the trapeze table offers something for everyone.