The main pieces of Pilates apparatus are the reformer, the Cadillac (or trapeze table), the tower, the chair and the barrels. Each uses springs and body position differently: the reformer has a sliding carriage, the Cadillac a stable raised table with an overhead frame, the tower a compact spring frame, the chair a spring-loaded pedal, and the barrels curved supports for the spine. The reformer is the most versatile single piece for most people.
Written by the Elemental Movement Lab and reviewed by Samantha Giam, certified classical Pilates instructor. Updated 30 September 2026.
Pilates apparatus at a glance
| Apparatus | Defining feature | Best known for | Home suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reformer | Sliding carriage, springs, straps, footbar | Broadest repertoire | Good, especially foldable models |
| Cadillac / trapeze table | Raised table with overhead frame and bars | Supported, assisted and hanging work | Large; dedicated rooms |
| Tower | Upright spring frame, often reformer- or wall-mounted | Cadillac-style springs in less space | Good |
| Wunda / Pilates chair | Box with spring-loaded pedal | Balance and strength | Compact |
| Barrels | Curved supports | Spinal extension and flexion | Compact |
The reformer
The reformer's moving carriage makes it the most adaptable apparatus: lying, sitting, kneeling and standing work, assisted or resisted. Read What Is Reformer Pilates?
The Cadillac
The Cadillac, or trapeze table, is a raised stable table beneath a frame fitted with springs, bars and a trapeze. Because the surface does not move, it supports clients who need stability and also enables advanced hanging and inverted work. Its size usually limits it to studios.
The tower
A tower brings Cadillac-style spring work, such as roll-down bar and leg springs, into a smaller footprint, often attached to a reformer or wall. Many home practitioners combine a reformer and tower.
The Pilates chair
The Wunda Chair is a compact box with a spring-loaded pedal. Seated, standing and lying exercises make it demanding for balance and strength. Its small footprint makes it popular for homes.
Barrels and spine correctors
The ladder barrel and smaller spine corrector are curved supports for stretching, extension and side work. They complement reformer and mat practice.
Which apparatus should you buy first?
For most people, a reformer. It offers the widest repertoire in one machine. Add a box such as Pebble™ for more positions. For the history behind each piece, read Joseph Pilates and the History of Pilates.
Reinventing the apparatus
The Elemental Movement Lab studies Joseph Pilates' original apparatus as the basis for new designs for homes, hospitality and the outdoors, starting with TerraFold™, a full-scale foldable reformer.
FAQs
Cadillac vs reformer: which is better?
They do different jobs. The Cadillac offers a stable surface and overhead springs; the reformer a moving carriage and broader everyday repertoire.
Is a tower the same as a Cadillac?
Not quite. A tower offers similar spring work in a smaller frame but without the full raised table.
What is a Pilates chair used for?
Strength and balance exercises pressing a spring-loaded pedal while seated, standing or lying.
