Reformer Pilates
Illustration of Arm Springs Supine on the Pilates reformer

Exercise

Arm Springs Supine

Beginner

Supine Cadillac arm-spring exercise pressing and lifting the arms to open the chest and strengthen the upper body.

Setup instructions

Lie supine on the Cadillac table below the arm spring attachment. Hold the arm loops with both hands and extend the arms upward toward the ceiling. Settle the shoulder blades onto the table and keep the ribs soft.

Breathing cues

Exhale to press. Inhale to return.

Movement steps

  1. 1Inhale to prepare.
  2. 2Exhale to press both arms down alongside the body, keeping them straight.
  3. 3Inhale to raise the arms back to the starting position with control.
  4. 4Keep the shoulders from shrugging and the spine stable throughout.
  5. 5Repeat for the desired reps.

Common mistakes

Shrugging the shoulders on the press; bending the elbows; arching the low back; rushing the return; losing rib connection.

Safety notes

Use a light spring setting for beginners. Stop if shoulder discomfort or impingement appears.

Connections

Muscles worked

Equipment needed

FAQs

  • Is Arm Springs Supine suitable for beginners?

    Yes. Lying supine with spring support makes this one of the most accessible Cadillac arm exercises. The movement is simple and the spring provides clear feedback on shoulder position.

  • What muscles does Arm Springs Supine work?

    The shoulder stabilisers and upper-back muscles control the arm press and return. The deep core works to keep the spine supported and the ribs quiet throughout.

  • What is Arm Springs Supine good for?

    It is excellent for chest opening, shoulder awareness, and building the upper-body connection that underpins more complex arm-spring patterns. It is also useful for movers recovering from sedentary postures.