If you’ve taken a reformer class, you’ll recognize the XFormer the moment you step onto it. Springs. A moving platform. Resistance you can dial up or down. Then class starts, the instructor slows the very first rep down to a crawl, and you realize this isn’t the same workout.
People ask us about XFormer vs. reformer pilates more than almost anything else. Here’s the plain answer.
Same Family. Different Job.
A classic reformer and the XFormer share the same basic idea: you move against spring resistance on a sliding platform, so the work is low impact and the load is adjustable. Where they part ways is what the class is built to do.
Classical reformer work is built around technique, flow, and a set repertoire of exercises. HILI’s XFormer classes are built around strength: slow tempo, long time under tension, and holds that push your muscles to the point of shaking.
Today I went to Tia's 6:00 a.m. class. I am an intermediate reformer Pilates girl. I go two to three times a week on the regular. Today when I came in there were a bunch of first time Pilates participants. Tia did an amazing job at making all of the first timers feel welcomed and informed about what we were doing. While simultaneously taking care of the regulars and pushing us to our limits during our workout. Let alone her playlist was fire. So if you ever see Tia on the schedule do not hesitate to take her class. Hurry up and book it before it sells out!
Krystle IrizarryXFormer vs. Reformer, Side by Side
| Classic reformer class | HILI XFormer class | |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Springs | Springs, fully adjustable |
| Tempo | Flowing, moderate | Very slow, controlled |
| Main goal | Technique, control, flexibility | Strength, endurance, control |
| Intensity | Moderate, scales up with level | High, from the first block |
| Impact | Low | Low |
| Class length | Usually around 50 minutes | Up to 50 minutes |
| Room | Usually standard temperature | Cool, climate-controlled |
| Hardest part | Learning the exercise names | The last ten seconds of a slow hold |
Why Slow Makes It Harder
On a reformer, a smooth, flowing pace lets you link exercises together and focus on precision. On the XFormer, we slow everything down on purpose. The slower you go, the harder it gets.
Moving slowly keeps your muscles under tension longer, takes momentum out of the movement, and forces the small stabilizers to work alongside the big muscles. That’s where the HILI shake comes from, usually somewhere around the middle of class.
Want to understand the shake? Read why pilates for strength works.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Classic Reformer If
You want to learn the traditional pilates method, care most about technique and flexibility, or prefer a flowing, moderate-intensity workout.
Choose the XFormer If
You want pilates to feel like strength training, you like being challenged every class, or you already lift and want something that works the gaps. If you’ve done traditional pilates and think you’re ready, our traditional vs. HILI pilates post is a fair warning.
Either Way, You Can Start as a Beginner
You don’t need reformer experience to take an XFormer class. HILI’s Form Foundation class teaches the machine from scratch, and every class comes with modifications.
Where Infrared Hot Mat Fits In
Most HILI members don’t pick just one room. The XFormer builds strength in a cool room. Infrared Hot Mat is floor-based pilates with light weights in a room heated to 90–104°F, built around core work, mobility, and a lot of sweat.
The two complement each other: machine strength on one day, heat and core on another.
While I was in Florida on a work trip, I decided to try both the Xformer and Infrared Hot Mat Pilates classes. I ended up taking 4 to 5 classes during the week and absolutely loved the experience. …
Nora AlersCurious about the hot room? Read hot pilates in Lake Nona.
Common Questions
What is XFormer pilates?
XFormer pilates is HILI Fitness’s reformer-style class on a spring-loaded, fully adjustable machine. Classes use slow tempo and long time under tension to build strength, and they’re low impact, instructor-led, and up to 50 minutes long.
Is the XFormer the same as a reformer?
Not quite. Both use spring resistance on a moving platform, but HILI’s XFormer classes are built for strength, with much slower tempo and higher intensity than a classic reformer class, which focuses more on technique and flow.
Is XFormer pilates good for beginners?
Yes. Every XFormer class is instructor-led with modifications for every move, and the Form Foundation class teaches the machine from the ground up. Expect it to be challenging, but you don’t need prior experience.
Where can I take XFormer classes in Orlando?
HILI Fitness runs XFormer classes at its Central Florida studios, including Lake Nona on Narcoossee Road and Waterford Lakes on N Alafaya Trail.
Reformer taught you control. The XFormer puts it to work. Try one class and you’ll feel the difference by minute fifteen. Book at Lake Nona or Waterford Lakes.
