First Time Trying Pilates Reformer and Cadillac Combo

Trying Pilates for the First Time on the Reformer and Cadillac

As a fitness novice trying pilates for the first time, I was both nervous and excited to take on the challenge of the reformer and Cadillac equipment. Having heard pilates described as a "humbling experience" even for seasoned athletes, I'll admit I had some reservations. But I'm here to tell you - if I can do it, you can do it too!

Getting Started with My First Pilates Workout

When I first walked into the pilates studio, I was overwhelmed by the complex looking equipment. The reformer machine was like a bed frame with springs and straps hanging off it. The Cadillac looked like a hospital bed with a vertical cage on one end. My instructor could sense my hesitation and assured me we would start slow with the beginner's equipment.

We began with some mat work to get my body warmed up. Basic pilates moves like the hundred, rolling like a ball, and knee folds helped wake up my core and get my blood flowing. After about 10 minutes, my instructor could tell I was ready to try one of the apparatuses.

Attempting the Reformer for Core Strengthening

The first machine I tried was the reformer. My instructor had me sit on the sliding carriage and explained how the springs provide resistance to work the core and back muscles. As she talked me through my first reps of leg circles and footwork exercises, I could feel my lower abs engaging to control the carriage.

Trying not to launch myself off the reformer at first was tricky! But my instructor kept reminding me to engage my core and move with control. As I got the hang of it, I was surprised at how much the springs intensified seemingly simple moves. Those small leg raises were not as easy as they looked!

Moving Onto the Cadillac for Integration

After about 20 minutes on the reformer, we moved onto the Cadillac. I laid down on the bed and slid my legs into the vertical cage to try "leg springs" for the first time. As I pushed my legs in and out, the springs engaged my core and I felt my entire body integrating to power the movement.

My instructor then had me try different arm springs moves as well. Turns out pushing and pulling my arms against tension called even more core strength than I expected. As she cued me to keep my pelvis still while moving my arms, I felt the burn big time!

Discovering the Full-Body Benefits

By the end of my first reformer and Cadillac session, my abs, glutes, arms, and inner thighs were on fire! I definitely worked muscle groups that I never target in my usual cardio workouts. It was amazing to feel my entire body engage from head to toe in such a focused way.

Growing Confidence in Just One Session

While pilates first seemed intimidating, breaking down the reformer and Cadillac moves with an experienced instructor made them approachable. Seeing how customizable the spring tensions are to accommodate different fitness levels also grew my confidence.

I was pleasantly surprised that I could do a real pilates workout as a beginner. My instructor struck the perfect balance of teaching me proper form on the equipment while still challenging me. I left the studio feeling empowered and eager to keep improving!

Overcoming Physical and Mental Obstacles

On a physical level, the biggest obstacles I overcame were core strength and coordination. Engaging muscle groups I rarely use was a wake up call! But pushing past mental barriers was just as humbling.

Letting go of ego and expectations while tuning into my body didn't come naturally to me. Admitting where I was weak and needed to improve was as much of a mental shift as a physical one. But putting aside perfectionism liberating!

You Can Do It Too!

While no two pilates experiences are the same, I believe that if I can challenge myself as a complete novice, anyone can give it a try! Don't let the reformer and Cadillac machines intimidate you.

Find the Right Instructor for You

The key is finding an instructor who makes pilates accessible at your individual level. Whether you're recovering from an injury or trying fitness for the first time, there are programs tailored just for you.

Be patient with yourself as you grow your strength and knowledge. Over time, you may even surprise yourself with what you can accomplish!

Empower Your Body and Mind

If you're up for both a physical and mental shift, pilates delivers. Not only will you activate muscle groups you never knew you had, you'll achieve a level of mind-body awareness few workouts offer.

Tune into that sense of empowerment I felt after trying pilates for the first time. I have a feeling you'll be hooked too!

FAQs

What is a pilates reformer machine?

A pilates reformer is a platform with a sliding carriage and springs of varying resistance. The carriage slides back and forth along the frame, working your core, glutes, arms, and legs as you push and pull against the springs.

What muscle groups does the Cadillac work?

The pilates Cadillac targets both your upper body and core. Various springs allow you to work your arms, back, abs, and obliques through coordinated pushing and pulling movements while lying down, sitting, or standing.

How often should a beginner do pilates?

For beginners, it’s recommended to start with 1-2 pilates workout sessions per week. This allows your body time to recover and adjust to the new movements. After a few weeks, you can gradually increase frequency based on how you feel.

What are the benefits of reformer pilates?

Benefits include improved core strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. The resistance training targets smaller stabilizing muscles that get overlooked in normal workouts. Over time, posture and muscle tone improve as well.