- Difficulty: Advanced
- Equipment Needed: Cadillac or Tower, Arm Springs (I love using the Contrology Cadillac.)
- Reps: 3-5
- Warning: Not ideal for most neck and shoulder issues.
- Questions: Contact us here
Rowing 2: 90 Degrees with Arm Springs on the Cadillac
Pilates Rowing 2 also known as 90 Degrees on the Pilates Cadillac or Tower is a great place to practice the many parts that this exercise has in it. While a more advanced of all the Rowing exercises it’s great for challenging your arm back connections and your tall back strength. You don’t have to learn 90 Degrees or Rowing 2, first on your Cadillac or Tower but it is helpful. Because the mat isn’t moving like a carriage it makes it easier to focus on all the moving parts. However, the springs are heavier on the Cadillac or Tower so you may find it more possible to do this exercise on your Reformer.
Move the springs with arms connected to your back. No bicep curls!
Sit facing your Arm Springs, legs squeezing tight and together. It’s the same setup as Rowing 1 but with a different arm position to start. Start one legs distance away from the springs. Move back if it’s too easy. One handle in each hand. Fingers long and together lift your arms up to shoulder height and bend your elbows. Palms are facing you. While called 90 Degrees you will have a greater than 90-degree angle at your elbow. It’s not a bicep curl. Sit up as tall as you can to start.
With a very tall back lean back towards the mat behind you. Your arms maintain their start position shape and come along for the ride. Focus more on opening the front of the hips instead of hinging the back. Lean back as far as you can keep your arms in the shape (not pulling your hands to your shoulders) then sit up tall shoulders over hips. Reach your arms forward over your legs with your palms up. Round your spine up and over your legs and then flip your palms and reach your arms long down by your side and back behind you. Try to touch your thumbs or hook them behind you. Lift your arms as high as you can and then circle them around over your feet. Sit tall and repeat. If going well do Rowing 3.
Be sure to check out more of my Pilates Cadillac exercises. I want to help you continue your Pilates Cadillac training!
