The Lagree Method and Pilates-Inspired Studios.

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Is it Pilates?

Some studios that use are marketing themselves as Pilates but are closer to a method called Lagree. While there are similarities between Lagree and Lagree-type methods with Pilates, those within the Pilates community will overwhelmingly agree that the workouts are Pilates-inspired and offer very different experiences. (And it's okay to like them.)

While many Pilates professionals might spend time discrediting these methods like Lagree, Solidcore, and BodyRok or presenting its cons, at Graduate Pilates, we do not believe it is good for anyone to tear down another fitness method in order to lift another one up. Instead, we believe it’s important to remain objective and allow clients to make their own decisions and choose fitness programs they find effective and enjoy.

While we are not trained in nor experts on these methods, here is what we know based on our research.

The Methods Behind Lagree and Pilates-Inspired Workouts

The Lagree Method was one of the first to tackle on a megaformer workout which is a high-intensity, low-impact workout that combines strength training, cardio, and endurance using the machine. It was created by Sebastien Lagree and is often compared to Pilates, but the equipment, intensity, focus, speed, and instructor training are different. The Lagree name and the Megaformer machine are trademarked, unlike the name Pilates or Reformer, so many studios who teach workouts that are similar to Lagree choose to use the word Pilates and Reformer instead to describe their method and machine due to licensing concerns and marketing strategies.

For those unfamiliar, these Lagree and Pilates-Inspired Workouts:

• Use slow, controlled movements to engage muscles for longer periods to create muscle fatigue and strength

• Focus on core strength, balance, and full-body conditioning

• Run classes that are usually 45 minutes long, with constant tension on muscles
  
  

Comparing Lagree and Pilates-Inspired Workouts To Contemporary Reformer Pilates

Megaformer Workouts

• Equipement: Megaformer (Lagree), Sweatlana (Solidcore), Custom Reformer (Bodyrok)

• Intensity: High

• Focus: Full body muscle endurance and cardio

• Movement Speed: Slow and controlled

• Instructor Training: Short -- Sometimes One-Weekend Training

• Restrictions: Depending on class, some conditions/injuries may make it difficult to complete some exercises–consult the studio for more information.

Contemporary Reformer Pilates Workouts

• Equipement: Pilates Reformer

• Intensity: Low to Moderate

• Focus: A balanced full body muscle development, healthy spine, and flexibility

• Movement Speed: Varied and controlled

• Instructor Training: Varied-- Typically Longer (Months)

• Restrictions: Depending on class, some conditions/injuries may make it difficult to complete some exercises; however, Reformer Pilates can be modified for almost any condition. Private lessons may be recommended for some–consult the studio for more information.

If you are ever in doubt of what you are signing up for, always feel empowered to email or call the studio and ask what to expect. A quick indicator is to look at what type of equipment is pictured in their marketing, regardless of the words they are using.

Which Method is right for you?

To make an informed decision before joining the class, you may ask the studio questions like:

❓Do you teach Classical Pilates, Contemporary Pilates, or Lagree methods in this class?

❓Are your machines Pilates Reformers or Megaformers?

❓What type of training do your instructors go through to qualify them to teach class?

❓What is the pace of this class?

❓What can I expect to gain out of consistently coming to these classes?

❓Is it safe for me to attend class if I have [name of injury]?

Depending on your goals and fitness class preferences, even though it is not Pilates, you may enjoy Lagree– if that is the case, you could benefit from doing both Lagree and Pilates-Inspired Methods and Contempoary Pilates. It does not necessarily have to be one or the other. And, remember, that many times your experience with any program is heavily dependent on finding a great fitness instructor.