Wear: Form-fitting, comfortable athletic wear that allows free movement (so the instructor can see your alignment) and that won't get caught in springs or wheels. Avoid zippers or heavy buttons.

Grip socks are highly recommended (and often required) for hygiene and safety on the equipment. They prevent slipping.

Bring: Water and a small towel.

Avoid loose jewelry and heavy perfumes.

These are specialized pieces of equipment designed by Joseph Pilates to enhance traditional mat work. The Reformer is a sliding carriage with adjustable springs for resistance, the Cadillac (or Trapeze Table) is a large frame with bars, straps, and springs overhead, and the Wunda Chair is a compact box with a pedal that provides resistance. Each apparatus uses springs to create resistance and assistance, allowing for a highly customizable workout.

Mat Pilates uses your body weight as resistance, focusing on core stabilization. Apparatus Pilates adds external resistance and support through springs, which can both challenge and assist movement. This allows for:

A greater range of motion.

More support for beginners or those with injuries.

Increased intensity and resistance for advanced athletes.

Precise alignment and spinal articulation that may be harder to achieve on the mat.

Absolutely. The apparatus is excellent for beginners because the springs can provide support and reduce strain. A certified instructor will tailor the exercises to your level, using the equipment to help you learn proper form and build foundational strength safely before progressing.

The Cadillac is incredibly versatile, ideal for stretching, spinal articulation, and advanced exercises. Its canopy frame allows for:

Decompression and traction for the spine (e.g., hanging exercises).

Assisted stretches for legs, hips, and shoulders.

A full range of exercises from gentle rehabilitation to challenging strength moves like the "Tower" (push-through bar).

Excellent for improving flexibility and mobility.

The Reformer is the most well-known apparatus because it offers a full-body, dynamic workout. Its moving carriage creates instability that challenges your core with every exercise. It's particularly effective for:

Building long, lean muscle through controlled, resistance-based movement.

Improving coordination and balance.

Low-impact cardiovascular conditioning with flowing sequences like "Long Stretch Series."

Targeting specific muscle groups with precise adjustments.

Despite its compact size, the Wunda Chair is a powerhouse for building strength, stability, and balance. It's exceptionally good for:

Developing powerful legs and glutes through presses and jumps.

Challenging core stability and proprioception (your sense of body position), as the unstable pedal requires constant engagement.

Advanced arm and shoulder work when using the pedals with hands.

It’s a fantastic tool for athletic conditioning and adding intensity.

Yes, this is one of its greatest strengths. Under the guidance of a trained instructor, the apparatus can be used for safe and effective rehabilitation. The springs can:

Support body weight to reduce compressive forces on the spine (e.g., on the Reformer carriage).

Provide gentle resistance to rebuild strength in a controlled manner.

Assist with range of motion to restore mobility without strain.

The Cadillac is often used in therapeutic settings for its traction capabilities.

No. Pilates emphasizes lengthening muscles while strengthening them, combined with high repetitions and low resistance. The apparatus is designed to create long, strong, and flexible muscles—often described as a "dancer's body." It improves muscle tone without adding bulk.

Joseph Pilates famously said, "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a new body." For tangible results, most instructors recommend:

2-3 times per week consistently.

This can be supplemented with mat work or other forms of exercise.

Quality of movement and consistency are more important than frequency.

Not at all. The apparatus can actually help you gain flexibility. The springs provide assistance that allows you to safely move into deeper stretches than you might be able to achieve on your own. The Cadillac, in particular, has many straps and bars designed to improve flexibility.

Private Sessions (1-on-1): Ideal for beginners, those with specific injuries or goals, and anyone wanting fully personalized instruction. The instructor can tailor every exercise and adjustment to you.

Group Classes (2-5 people): Suitable once you have a solid foundation and understand the basic principles and setups. They are more cost-effective and offer a communal energy, but you will receive less individual cueing.