The Megaformer machine is becoming a new favorite among Pilates enthusiasts

The Megaformer machine—often described as an upgraded version of Pilates—has rapidly become the new favorite among Pilates and fitness enthusiasts. After gaining massive popularity in the United States, this high-intensity, low-impact training method has now become a buzzword in China as well.

With its unique combination of Pilates strength training, resistance exercises, and high-intensity body-sculpting movements, the Megareformer (also known as the “supermodel machine”) is dominating social media and emerging as one of the fastest-growing fitness trends worldwide.

In North America, boutique studio brand Solidcore, which specializes in Megareformer training, has expanded to 250 studios and was acquired by L Catterton, an LVMH-backed investment fund, at a valuation of 5 billion RMB. Its annual revenue reached $150 million in 2024, further proving the market potential of this rising discipline.

Megareformer Craze Sweeps Across China

From The Megaformer Lab in Shanghai’s Shankangli to The Body Lab in Beijing’s China World Trade Center, Megaformer group classes have quickly entered the prime locations of China’s first-tier cities.

Compared to traditional Pilates reformers, the Megaformer features a longer and wider sliding carriage, offering more challenging resistance combinations and a more intense training experience.

But with the sudden boom, many consumers find themselves confused:

What exactly is the difference between Pilates reformer and the Megaformer?

At first glance, the Megaformer simply looks like a larger Reformer. But based on studio promotions and public information, the two differ in perceived training goals:

Pilates reformer → posture improvement, rehabilitation, controlled movements

Megaformer → higher intensity, rapid shaping, body sculpting, metabolic boost

Some users comment that Megaformer classes are not ideal for complete beginners but highly suitable for people with basic Pilates foundation who seek more challenge.

However, if we examine the training logic more carefully, both methods share many similarities.

Advanced Pilates group classes and Megaformer sessions both involve spring resistance, core engagement, and low-impact movement patterns. The biggest difference, arguably, is atmosphere—Megaformer classes often feature dark studios, neon lights, fast-paced music, and coaches with higher-energy cues, creating a noticeably different workout vibe from classic Pilates.

Where Did the Megaformer Come From?

The Megaformer was developed in the early 2000s by Sebastien Lagree, who positioned it as an entirely new training system:

“High intensity without high impact.”

Although inspired by Pilates, Lagree repeatedly emphasizes that it is not Pilates.

The Megaformer focuses on:

◆ Intense, continuous muscle stimulation

◆ Strength and endurance training

◆ Cardio-like metabolic activation

◆ Rapid body-sculpting results

Market performance proves its effectiveness. According to data from booking platform ClassPass, the Megaformer is currently the fastest-growing boutique fitness trend in the United States.

Megaformer vs. Pilates Reformer – Will One Replace the Other?

Searching “What is the difference between Megaformer and Pilates reformer?” online yields numerous claims that the Megaformer is “stronger, deeper, more effective.”

But from a sports science standpoint, the differences are often overstated.

Both the Pilates Reformer and Megaformer rely on:

◆ Spring resistance

◆ Sliding carriage

◆ Controlled tempo

◆ Low-impact movement patterns

◆ Core activation

Whether performing lunges, planks, or glute sequences, both machines can achieve similar movement logic and training benefits.

More importantly:

Neither the Megaformer nor the Pilates Reformer will replace the other.

They are simply different tools serving different training atmospheres and intensity preferences. Both can effectively improve:

◆ Core strength

◆ Muscle endurance

◆ Posture

◆ Coordination

◆ Body shaping

The key is choosing equipment that fits your training goals—and having a good instructor.

Why Choosing the Right Pilates Equipment Matters – And Why Wavar Is a Trusted Supplier

With the rising popularity of Megaformer classes in both domestic and international markets, more gyms, Pilates studios, and training centers are considering adding Megaformers, Reformers, and other Pilates machines to their equipment lineup.

This makes one point extremely critical:

Choosing a reliable, high-quality Pilates equipment supplier has never been more important.

As more manufacturers enter the market, quality differences become increasingly obvious. Inferior machines may have issues such as:

◆ Unstable frames

◆ Inconsistent spring resistance

◆ Rough gliding systems

◆ Safety risks under high-intensity use

For commercial studios especially, equipment durability, user safety, and long-term service support are essential.

⭐ Wavar — Your Trusted Partner for Professional Pilates Equipment

As a professional manufacturer and supplier specializing in Pilates equipment, Wavar is among the few brands capable of producing high-quality Megaformers, Reformers, and other Pilates machines at scale.

Wavar’s latest Megaformer series has already gained strong market attention due to:

◆ Multiple models (standard + mini versions)

◆ High-strength aluminum structure

◆ Smooth, quiet gliding system

◆ Precise spring resistance

◆ Excellent cost-performance ratio

◆ OEM/ODM customization

◆ Fast production and export capacity

Whether for newly opened Pilates studios or expanding fitness chains, Wavar provides stable supply, competitive pricing, and full after-sales support, making it a trusted partner for distributors and global buyers.

Conclusion: The Megaformer Trend Will Grow — And Wavar Helps You Stay Ahead

The Megaformer is not here to replace Pilates, but to enrich it.

Its popularity proves that consumers are seeking more efficient, more dynamic, and more visually engaging training experiences.

And as the fitness market continues to evolve, high-quality equipment becomes the foundation for a studio’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

This is why more and more studios choose Wavar— a reliable, professional, and globally trusted Pilates equipment supplier.