Xformer, Megaformer, or Something Better? My Honest Review After Switching to the Sculptformer
If you’ve been researching Pilates reformer machines for any length of time, you’ve probably come across two words over and over again: Xformer and Megaformer. These machines are known for their sleek design, tough workouts, and high-end studio appeal—and they’re everywhere in the strength-based Pilates world.
As someone who loves Pilates and was ready to invest in professional-grade equipment, I did what most people do: I compared the Xformer, the Megaformer, and every “reformer” machine I could find.
And honestly? I almost bought one of them.
But after months of digging into specs, pricing, performance, and real user feedback—I chose something different: the Sculptformer by The Core Collab. It wasn’t a decision I made lightly. And in this post, I’ll walk you through what I learned, why I didn’t go with the mainstream machines, and what happened after I made the switch.
What Makes the Xformer and Megaformer So Popular?
Let’s start with the basics. Both machines have become incredibly popular in high-end Pilates and fitness studios.
🔸 The Megaformer
Built by Lagree Fitness, the Megaformer is designed to blend strength training, Pilates, and cardio into one seamless, high-intensity, low-impact workout. It’s well-known for its versatility, platform stability, and heavy-duty resistance. In fact, workouts on this machine are often called "Lagree Megaformer workouts" because of how distinct the method has become.
🔸 The Xformer
Also a creation of Lagree Fitness, the Xformer is a more advanced version of the Megaformer—offering enhanced functionality, different handles and cables, and a more ergonomic build. It’s sleek, powerful, and commands attention in any studio setting.
🔹 But There’s a Catch...
Both machines come with hefty price tags, often over $10,000 USD. For someone starting a new Pilates studio—or even outfitting a boutique gym—that cost adds up fast. And that’s not even including shipping, setup, and accessories.
Source: Lagree Fitness – What Is a Megaformer?
Megaformer vs Reformer: What's the Real Difference?
Before we go deeper, it’s important to understand how these machines compare to a traditional Pilates reformer.
A standard reformer is designed for low-impact, control-focused movement, using springs and pulleys to create resistance. It’s ideal for classical Pilates and rehabilitation. On the other hand, the Megaformer and Xformer are built for continuous tension, fast transitions, and more intense strength training.
👉 If you're searching for a “Megaformer vs reformer” comparison, here's a simplified look:
| Feature | Traditional Reformer | Megaformer/Xformer |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Classical Pilates | Strength + cardio fusion |
| Resistance | Springs | Springs + platform resistance |
| Speed | Slow & controlled | Slow + dynamic transitions |
| Price Range | $3,000–$6,000 | $10,000+ |
For me, I wanted the strength-focused workout style but wasn’t ready to spend more than $10k on one piece of equipment.
Why I Started Looking Beyond the Big Brands
At first, I was set on buying either the Megaformer or Xformer. I demoed them both. I visited studios. I even had a quote in hand.
But the deeper I looked, the more I started to question:
- Why are there no alternatives?
- Is there a machine that offers the same functionality, without the massive overhead?
- Can I find a strength-based reformer that’s actually accessible to new studio owners?
That’s when I came across a newer name in the industry: The Sculptformer.
How I Found the Sculptformer (and Why It Stood Out)
A fellow instructor mentioned a brand called The Core Collab that had recently launched a new kind of reformer machine. I checked it out—and my interest was piqued right away.
The machine looked modern, professional, and well-engineered. And the best part?
👉 It was $2,000 cheaper than the Xformer and Megaformer.
I did my homework. The Core Collab has been manufacturing and operating Pilates studios for over 20 years. Their team had real experience designing equipment not just for aesthetics—but for actual instructor use.
Here’s what I found with the Sculptformer:
✅ Precision glide technology for smooth motion
✅ Strength-based resistance system
✅ Studio-quality build
✅ 10-year warranty
✅ Designed by professionals who actually use this equipment
I decided to give it a shot. And I’m glad I did.
My Honest Review After Making the Switch
It’s been a few months since I brought the Sculptformer into my studio, and here’s what I can tell you from experience:
✅ The Feel
The glide system is seriously smooth—comparable to what I felt on both the Megaformer and Xformer. Transitions are quick, tension is consistent, and it handles back-to-back classes with no issues.
✅ The Performance
All of the key Lagree-style movements? I can do them. Lunges, core holds, single-leg presses, planks with resistance—it’s all there. The platform is wide, stable, and easy to cue clients on.
✅ The Price
This was the game-changer. I saved over $2,000 on a single unit. Multiply that across 4 machines for my small group classes—and that’s $8,000 saved. I reinvested that into studio marketing and paid back my build-out faster.
Want to know how Pilates compares to traditional strength training? Here's a solid breakdown from ACE Fitness.
Is the Sculptformer the Best of Both Worlds?
Honestly, for me—it is.
It bridges the gap between a reformer and a Megaformer, without the Megaformer price tag. If you’re familiar with the lagree megaformer workout style, the Sculptformer lets you teach the same kind of full-body strength sessions with zero compromise.
If you’re a studio owner, an instructor launching a business, or even someone creating a home gym—you’ll want to consider machines like this that don’t rely on brand hype, but deliver actual performance.
Final Thoughts: Would I Do It Again?
Yes—100%. I have no regrets choosing the Sculptformer over the Xformer or Megaformer.
It delivers the experience my clients want. It saves me thousands. It’s backed by industry veterans. And it gives me room to grow my business without drowning in overhead.
So, if you're deciding between the Xformer, the Megaformer, or something more accessible—know that you have options. Great ones.
Verywell Fit also has a solid overview of what reformer Pilates can offer if you’re new to it.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between the Xformer and the Megaformer?
Both are advanced Pilates machines created by Lagree Fitness. The Xformer is a newer model with upgraded handles and platform design. Both are used in high-intensity, strength-based Pilates workouts.
2. Is the Sculptformer a Megaformer or Xformer?
No. The Sculptformer is its own reformer machine, designed by The Core Collab. It’s not affiliated with Lagree but offers a similar workout experience at a more accessible price.
3. Can you teach Lagree-style workouts on a non-Megaformer?
Yes. While only licensed studios can call it a "Lagree" class, you can absolutely teach strength-based, Pilates-inspired workouts on reformers with similar resistance and platform functionality.
4. Is the Sculptformer available in the U.S.?
Yes! The Core Collab ships nationwide across the U.S. You can find the full specs and order directly on their official website.
