What Is a Megaformer Workout? (And Are There Better Alternatives?)
If you’ve spent any time on the Pilates side of TikTok, Instagram, or in boutique studios, chances are you’ve heard of the Megaformer. It’s sleek, it’s intense, and it’s at the center of a new wave of high-intensity Pilates workouts.
But what exactly is a Megaformer workout? How is it different from traditional Pilates? And—if you’re an instructor or future studio owner—is it the only option?
Spoiler: it’s not. I found an alternative that delivers the same performance, without the $10K price tag. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Megaformer Workout?
A Megaformer workout is a full-body training session that blends strength, cardio, balance, and endurance using a specialized machine called the Megaformer. This piece of equipment was created by Sebastien Lagree, founder of the Lagree Fitness method.
While traditional Pilates reformers focus on alignment, breath, and fluid movement, the Megaformer turns up the intensity with:
- Increased resistance
- A wider range of dynamic exercises
- Minimal rest between movements
- A serious burn in under 45 minutes
It’s often described as Pilates meets strength training, and the method is now taught in over 500 studios worldwide.
Megaformer vs Reformer: Key Differences
If you’re wondering how a Megaformer differs from a standard reformer, you’re not alone. I had the same question before I started researching machines for my studio.
Here’s the short version:
| Feature | Traditional Pilates Reformer | Megaformer |
|---|---|---|
| Movement Style | Classical, low-impact | High-intensity, slow-burn |
| Focus | Posture, flexibility, rehab | Strength, cardio, core endurance |
| Resistance | Springs | Springs + dynamic platform tension |
| Workout Type | Gentle flow | Intense circuit-style training |
| Price Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $10,000+ |
So when we talk about “megaformer vs reformer,” we’re really talking about the style of workout as much as the machine itself.
The Rise of Xformer & Lagree Megaformer Studios
The popularity of Lagree Megaformer workouts has given rise to a new generation of boutique fitness studios—many of which use either the Megaformer or its upgraded sibling, the Xformer.
The Xformer, also developed by Lagree Fitness, includes ergonomic upgrades, new handlebar positions, and adjustable carriage settings. It’s modern, versatile, and built to handle high-traffic classes.
But both machines come with a major downside: price.
When I started pricing them for my studio, I was seeing figures between $10,000 and $12,000—per unit. That was a huge investment, especially if you’re trying to outfit a 4–8 person small group studio.
I started wondering: Are there other reformers that can deliver the same intensity and performance... for less?
Enter the Sculptformer: A Game-Changing Alternative
I discovered the Sculptformer through a Pilates colleague. She told me, “It does everything I used to do on a Megaformer—without the brand markup.”
Naturally, I had to try it myself. What I found was a modern, commercial-grade reformer designed specifically for strength-based Pilates workouts—the kind you'd see in a Lagree class.
What Makes the Sculptformer Special?
- ✅ Smooth glide technology for controlled resistance
- ✅ Built for dynamic strength training, core stability, and cardio endurance
- ✅ Designed by Pilates studio professionals with 20+ years of experience
- ✅ Supported by a 10-year warranty
- ✅ Costs $2,000+ less per unit than a Megaformer or Xformer
This wasn’t a knock-off—it was a smart, efficient reformer built to handle the same class format at a much more accessible price.
In the video below, I break down the real-world differences between the Megaformer and the reformer — including cost, workout style, and flexibility — and share why I ultimately chose the Sculptformer as a modern alternative.
If you're researching Pilates machines for home or studio use, this video will help you make a more informed decision.
Can You Do Megaformer Workouts on the Sculptformer?
Absolutely. While the Sculptformer isn’t affiliated with Lagree Fitness, it was built to deliver a similar strength-focused workout. The format is nearly identical:
- Slow, high-tension movement
- Core activation
- Muscle endurance under time
- Low impact, high intensity
If you’ve done a Lagree class before, the feel will be familiar. The resistance, the transitions, the full-body engagement—it’s all there.
Want to understand more about the benefits of Pilates for strength training? This article from ACE Fitness is a great resource.
Why I Chose the Sculptformer (and Saved Thousands)
I was originally budgeting for Megaformers or Xformers—until I realized I could get comparable machines that offered the same features and a better warranty for $2,000 less per unit.
For my studio (with six machines), that was over $12,000 in savings.
I reinvested that into:
- Instructor education
- Studio marketing
- Interior design and flooring
- Custom props and accessories
Plus, The Core Collab’s team had real studio experience, so everything was built with instructors and clients in mind. That made a huge difference.
Final Thoughts: Is the Megaformer the Only Option?
Not anymore.
Yes, Megaformer workouts are powerful, challenging, and wildly effective—but that doesn’t mean the Megaformer itself is the only machine that can deliver them.
If you're an instructor, studio owner, or even a home user looking for the same workout with more financial flexibility, machines like the Sculptformer are absolutely worth exploring.
They’re not knock-offs—they’re part of a growing shift toward innovation in the Pilates equipment space. And honestly, it’s about time.
FAQs
1. What’s a Megaformer workout?
A Megaformer workout is a high-intensity, low-impact strength training class that blends Pilates, cardio, and resistance training on a Megaformer machine.
2. What’s the difference between a Megaformer and a reformer?
Reformers are more classical and low-intensity, while the Megaformer is designed for intense, slow, strength-based movement with added resistance and cardio flow.
3. Is the Sculptformer a Megaformer?
No. The Sculptformer is a strength-based reformer alternative designed by The Core Collab. It’s not affiliated with Lagree but supports a similar style of training.
4. How much does a Megaformer cost?
Most Megaformers and Xformers cost between $10,000 and $12,000, depending on the model. The Sculptformer starts at around half that.
5. Can you do Lagree-style workouts on a Sculptformer?
Yes. You can perform the same movement patterns and intensity without needing a branded machine. You just can’t call it a "Lagree" class unless licensed.
✅ Ready to See the Sculptformer?
Click here to explore the Sculptformer and see if it’s the right fit for your studio or home setup.
