Equipment guides
How to choose a Cadillac
The short answer
A Cadillac needs about 8 ft × 3 ft of floor and 7 ft 6 in of ceiling. Choose on frame rigidity, the number of spring attachment points, and whether the table height suits the practitioner — a table too high makes transfers difficult for clinical clients.
Frame rigidity is everything
A Cadillac carries spring load from an overhead frame, and any flex in the uprights transmits directly into every exercise. A rigid frame feels solid under the push-through bar; a flexible one moves visibly.
Check by loading the push-through bar heavily and watching the uprights. Movement there means the frame is under-specified.
Attachment points determine repertoire
More eyebolts and attachment positions means more exercises and finer adjustment for different body sizes. This is the specification that most directly limits what a Cadillac can do.
Count them on the top frame, the uprights and the base, and compare between models — the difference is often substantial.
- Rigid frame with no visible flex under load
- Generous attachment points on frame, uprights and base
- Table height suited to the users — lower for clinical work
- Push-through bar with smooth, controlled travel
- Safety strap included for suspended work
Table height matters more than expected
A higher table is easier for a therapist to work at standing. A lower one is easier for a client with limited mobility to get onto. Those pull in opposite directions and the right answer depends on who is using it.
For clinical practice with older or post-surgical clients, prioritize transfer height over therapist comfort.
Consider a tower instead
A tower reformer delivers a large share of the Cadillac repertoire at reformer footprint and roughly half the cost. For most buyers that is the better answer.
A full Cadillac earns its space in clinical settings, where the stable table and extensive attachment points are the whole point.
Frequently asked questions
- How much space does a Cadillac need?
- About 8 ft × 3 ft of floor plus clearance to work around it, and 7 ft 6 in of ceiling height minimum.
- Should I buy a Cadillac or a tower?
- A tower for most buyers — it gives much of the repertoire at reformer footprint and roughly half the cost. A full Cadillac suits clinical practice.
- What makes a good Cadillac?
- Frame rigidity above all, then the number of spring attachment points, then a table height suited to who will use it.
- Is a Cadillac good for beginners?
- Yes — the fixed frame and stable table let beginners be loaded safely before they have developed independent stability.