Megaformer vs Reformer: Why I Chose Sculptformer & Saved $2K
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably taken a Pilates class, gotten hooked, and thought: “Could I actually teach this or build a studio around it?” That’s where my journey began.
As I researched equipment, I quickly ran into the same comparison everyone does: Megaformer vs Reformer.
I knew I wanted to offer a strength-based, full-body Pilates workout—but choosing the right equipment? That was more complicated than I expected. I looked at traditional reformers, I looked at the Lagree Megaformer, I looked at the Xformer, and I asked a ton of questions.
In the end, I found a better option: the Sculptformer by The Core Collab. It had everything I needed—and saved me over $2,000 per unit.
Let me walk you through why I made that choice.
Understanding the Difference: Megaformer vs Reformer
When I first started researching reformer machines, I didn’t realize how many variations existed. On the surface, they all looked similar—but under the hood, they’re built for completely different types of workouts.
Traditional Pilates Reformer
The classic reformer is designed for low-impact, alignment-based movement, focusing on flexibility, posture, and muscle control. It’s perfect for rehab, beginners, and anyone who loves the fundamentals of Pilates.
Megaformer (and Xformer)
The Megaformer, created by Sebastien Lagree, takes things in a different direction. It’s the foundation of the Lagree method, a high-intensity, strength-based workout that blends Pilates with resistance training and cardio.
The Xformer is a newer model in the Lagree Fitness family, offering advanced features and ergonomic upgrades—but the workout style is similar: burn, shake, and slow-tempo strength.
Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Traditional Reformer | Megaformer / Xformer |
|---|---|---|
| Workout Style | Classical Pilates | Strength + cardio fusion |
| Resistance System | Springs | Springs + platform resistance |
| Speed & Intensity | Low-intensity, slow | High-intensity, controlled tension |
| Price Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $10,000+ |
Source: Lagree Fitness – What is the Megaformer?
So where does that leave someone like me—wanting the benefits of a Lagree Megaformer workout, but without spending $40k on four machines?
Why I Didn’t Buy a Megaformer or Xformer
There’s no denying it: the Megaformer is a premium machine. It's built for a very specific kind of workout and a very specific kind of brand. But as a new studio owner, I had to think critically:
- Was I opening a Lagree-branded studio? No.
- Did I want to teach high-intensity, strength-based reformer classes? Yes.
- Did I want to spend $10,000+ on each machine? Definitely not.
I also considered the Xformer, which looked incredible but came with the same budget-blocking price tag. It’s ideal for upscale studios or franchises—but I needed something more flexible, both financially and functionally.
How I Found the Sculptformer
I discovered the Sculptformer by The Core Collab through another instructor who had recently outfitted her entire studio with them.
Her feedback? “You get the same workout feel, for thousands less.”
That was enough for me to dig deeper. What I found was impressive:
- Built by real Pilates studio owners with 20+ years of experience
- Designed for strength-based reformer workouts
- Backed by a 10-year warranty
- Ships across the U.S.
- $2,000+ cheaper per unit compared to Megaformer and Xformer
I was skeptical at first—but then I saw it in action, and I was sold.
What It’s Like Using the Sculptformer
It’s been over six months since I got my Sculptformers, and here’s my honest take.
Performance
The resistance system is solid. It supports every movement I would normally teach in a Lagree-style class—lunges, planks, gliders, core holds, standing series—all with smooth glide and stable tension.
Build Quality
The frame is sturdy. It feels commercial-grade, not like some flimsy home fitness product. It handles multiple classes per day without any issue.
Client Feedback
They love it. Most have no idea it’s not a Megaformer. The only thing they’ve noticed is how smooth the ride is and how intense the workout can be.
Financial Win
I saved $8,000 by buying four Sculptformers instead of Megaformers. That went toward marketing, staff training, and a cushion for studio expenses.
Curious about how reformer Pilates compares to strength training in general? This ACE Fitness article breaks it down.
Can You Do Megaformer Workouts on the Sculptformer?
Short answer: yes.
While you can’t legally call your class a "Lagree" class unless you’re licensed, you can absolutely teach the same movement patterns, structure, and intensity using a machine like the Sculptformer.
That’s why many instructors are making the shift—they want the freedom to teach their own method without being locked into a brand.
Is the Sculptformer Really Comparable?
This was the biggest question I had.
I wanted to make sure I wasn’t compromising just to save money. But after weeks of teaching on it, I realized the Sculptformer is:
- Just as smooth
- Just as challenging
- Just as versatile
- A lot more affordable
And unlike some reformers, it wasn’t designed by people who’ve never taught a class—it was built by studio owners and trainers who understand what instructors need.
Who Should Consider the Sculptformer?
You’ll love this machine if you are:
- Opening a boutique fitness or Pilates studio
- Offering high-intensity reformer classes
- Looking for a Megaformer alternative
- Wanting studio-grade quality without franchise-level pricing
- Teaching your own strength-based Pilates programming
If that’s you, it’s worth taking a serious look.
Final Thoughts: Megaformer vs Reformer vs Sculptformer
In the Megaformer vs reformer debate, there’s been a missing middle ground.
Traditional reformers are great—but they don’t deliver the intensity I wanted. Megaformers and Xformers are fantastic—but the price point doesn’t work for most independent instructors.
The Sculptformer gave me the sweet spot: functionality, durability, and savings. It’s not just a “budget” machine—it’s a smart, pro-level investment.
If you're on the fence, I’d say this: Try one. Teach a class. Feel the difference.
I did—and I’ve never looked back.
FAQs
1. Is the Sculptformer a Megaformer?
No. The Sculptformer is not a Megaformer or affiliated with Lagree Fitness. It’s a strength-based reformer that delivers similar workouts without the trademarked name.
2. Can you do Lagree-style classes on the Sculptformer?
Yes. You can’t call them “Lagree” classes unless licensed, but you can teach the same structure, format, and movements using the Sculptformer.
3. How much cheaper is the Sculptformer than the Megaformer?
Most quotes I received were $2,000–$2,500 less per machine, depending on shipping and configuration.
4. What about the Xformer?
The Xformer is another Lagree machine with upgraded features. It's high-end and effective—but still priced above $10,000. The Sculptformer offers a similar experience at a significantly lower cost.
Ready to Explore the Sculptformer?
Click here to view the Sculptformer and get full specs, pricing, and shipping options.
