Updated on March 5, 2025
The debate between the Megaformer and Reformer is one that comes up often in fitness circles—and it’s no surprise why. Both machines are great for strength and conditioning, but they each bring something unique to the table. The Reformer has long been a staple in Pilates, while the Megaformer takes things up a notch with its high-intensity, low-impact workouts. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences, benefits, and how each machine can help you crush your fitness goals.
What Is the Reformer and Why Was It Created?
The Reformer is one of the most iconic pieces of Pilates equipment. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates was designed to boost strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements. To take his mat-based exercises to the next level, Pilates created the Reformer, adding resistance through springs to make the workout more dynamic and challenging.
How the Reformer Works
The Reformer features a sliding carriage, springs for resistance, and adjustable footbars and straps, offering a wide range of exercises that target the entire body, with a strong focus on core strength and stability. The springs provide adjustable resistance, making it suitable for users of all fitness levels—from beginners to advanced practitioners. While the Reformer offers a balanced approach to full-body strength, it doesn’t have the high-intensity capabilities of the Megaformer.
Reformer Pilates is often seen as a great option for rehabilitation. Its low-impact, controlled movements make it perfect for those recovering from injury or looking for a gentler, more mindful workout. The machine allows for a slow, focused routine that’s effective and restorative, offering a calming yet challenging experience.
When and How Did Lagree Fitness Begin?
Lagree Fitness was founded by Sebastien Lagree in 1998, combining the principles of Pilates with a modern, dynamic twist. Sebastien’s vision was to create a workout that not only built on the foundation of Pilates but also integrated elements of strength training, bodybuilding, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Lagree is all about building both strength and endurance, with a focus on developing functional strength across every muscle group for a full-body workout that’s both challenging and effective.
Lagree vs. Pilates Comparison
While Pilates is often used for rehabilitation, Lagree is designed to deliver fast, visible results in a group setting. Unlike Pilates, which focuses mainly on the core with slower, controlled movements, Lagree takes a different approach with high-intensity exercises and minimal rest. The result? A stronger, more toned body in less time. Lagree’s innovative, low-impact method targets all muscle groups—legs, glutes, arms—helping to build muscle tone and endurance without putting excessive strain on the joints. It’s a workout that challenges you and delivers noticeable results quickly.
What Is the Megaformer?
The Megaformer is the core of Lagree, and it’s where the magic truly happens. This game-changing machine takes fitness to the next level by offering more versatility, intensity, and customization than the traditional Reformer. It’s built to challenge you in ways you’ve never experienced before, making every workout feel fresh and effective.
Key Features of the Megaformer
The Megaformer is packed with features that take your workout to the next level. It has a moving carriage, adjustable footbars, handles, and resistance springs, all designed for high-intensity sessions that help you push your limits. With more movement and hand/foot placement options than the Reformer, the Megaformer allows you to target specific muscle groups more effectively, cranking up the intensity and delivering faster results in less time.
Megaformer vs. Reformer: Comparison
The Megaformer takes your workout to the next level with its combination of adjustable resistance and varied movement patterns. The range of motion is greater, enabling deeper stretches and more challenging exercises. It also engages multiple muscle groups at once, making it perfect for a full-body workout. Unlike the Reformer, which relies mainly on spring resistance, the Megaformer offers additional features like adjustable handlebars and a more dynamic carriage, giving you a highly customizable workout. This versatility makes the Megaformer ideal for building strength, boosting endurance, and toning muscles faster.
Megaformer Benefits
No matter your fitness level, the Megaformer delivers a range of benefits, including:
- Full-body strength and conditioning—Work multiple muscle groups at once for faster, more balanced results.
- Low-impact, high-intensity training—Get an intense workout without putting stress on your joints, making it perfect for everyone.
- Increased flexibility and mobility—The dynamic range of motion helps enhance joint health and muscle elasticity.
- Improved endurance—Lagree workouts push you to your limits, building stamina and muscle resilience.
- Faster results—The combination of controlled movements and high-intensity intervals ensures quicker, visible improvements in muscle tone and strength.
Can Beginners Use the Megaformer?
Absolutely! The Megaformer is designed for all fitness levels, including beginners. In fact, it’s one of the best tools for those new to fitness or those looking to try something different. The machine allows for gradual progression, with adjustments in resistance and intensity to match the user's capabilities. Beginners can start with basic movements and slowly increase the intensity as they gain strength and confidence.
Try Out the Megaformer for Yourself
Ready to transform your fitness routine? The Megaformer offers a dynamic, low-impact workout that delivers fast, effective results. Whether you're looking to build strength, improve endurance, or simply try something new, the Megaformer is the perfect tool to take your fitness to the next level.
Don’t just take our word for it—experience the Megaformer difference firsthand! Sign up for your first Lagree Fit 415 class today and see why the Megaformer is revolutionizing fitness.
