What Sets Lagree Apart from Pilates And Which One Fits Your Goals

If you've ever stepped onto a reformer machine, you know the burn is real. But was it a Pilates class or was it Lagree? While both workouts use similar equipment and emphasize slow, controlled movement, they’re far from identical.

Whether you're looking to tone, build endurance, or just switch up your fitness routine, understanding the key differences between Lagree and Pilates can help you choose the right workout for your goals.

What Is Pilates?

Pilates is a century-old exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates to improve strength, flexibility, and alignment. It can be done on a mat or using specialized equipment like the reformer, Cadillac, and chair. The practice focuses on:

• Core stability

• Controlled, low-impact movement

• Breath and body awareness

• Posture and muscle balance

Pilates is often used for rehabilitation, functional strength, and improving mobility. It’s gentle on the joints and customizable for all fitness levels, making it a go-to for both beginners and elite athletes.

What Is Lagree?

Lagree Fitness is a modern, high-intensity workout developed by Sebastien Lagree. It uses a machine called the Megaformer, which looks similar to a Pilates reformer but is engineered for intensity. Lagree combines elements of:

• Strength training

• Endurance

• Cardio

• Core work

• Balance and flexibility

Think of it as Pilates turned up several notches. Movements are slow, controlled, and time under tension is maximized to target every muscle group especially those deep stabilizing muscles.

Choose Pilates if you want to:

• Improve posture and mobility

• Ease back into fitness or recover from injury

• Focus on form, breath, and alignment

• Reduce stress while strengthening your body

Choose Lagree if you want to:

• Get a low-impact, high-intensity workout

• Build muscular endurance and tone fast

• Push your limits in 45 minutes or less

• Combine strength, cardio, and core in one session

It’s also worth noting that Pilates is typically taught in a one-on-one or small-group setting, while Lagree is often structured more like a fitness class with upbeat music and minimal breaks.

Can You Do Both? Absolutely.

Pilates and Lagree aren’t mutually exclusive in fact, they can complement each other beautifully. Pilates can fine-tune your body awareness and alignment, while Lagree challenges your endurance and strength. Alternating the two can offer a balanced, well-rounded fitness routine.

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should aim for at least two days per week of muscle-strengthening activities. Both Pilates and Lagree easily fit that bill just in very different ways.

Movement That Moves You

Whether you gravitate toward the slow, mindful focus of Pilates or the sweat-dripping intensity of Lagree, both modalities offer powerful results. It’s all about listening to your body, exploring what energizes you, and finding a practice that supports your lifestyle.

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