What is Lagree Fitness?

Lagree Fitness is a revolutionary workout method in the fitness world that combines cardio, core, endurance, and resistance training to simulate balance, flexibility, and muscular strength. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from Lagree which is not the case with strength training, high-intensity workouts, or weightlifting. 

Lagree is the only fitness method with endless potential for evolution. Sebastian lagree, the creator of this method, dedicated over a decade to come up with this fitness routine. 

He worked a lot to improve the equipment, modify movements, perfect routines, and a lot more. The best thing about Lagree is that it targets every single muscle group and also doesn’t discriminate in terms of age/fitness levels. Lagree is, therefore, one of the most wholesome and perfect workouts. It is a fantastic alternative to other workouts like yoga, Pilates, and CrossFit, and actually won ClassPass’ Trendiest Workout of the Year two years ago.

What is the Megaformer vs. the Reformer?

Lagree takes place on the Megaformer, which is a major step-up compared to the Reformer, which is used for Pilates. You can think of it as ‘reformer on steroids.’ It’s an ever-evolving and highly advanced machine that has been designed after years of research. It uses spring-based tension to provide for flexibility in terms of resistance. 

Pilates Equipment – the REFORMER 

At a glance, the Reformer may look similar to the Megaformer, but the two are entirely different machines. Joseph Pilates is the inventor of the Reformer. It’s a well-known machine designed for Pilates. However, you can perform Pilates on a mat using bands, balls, and body weights as well.

Several movements on the Megaformer, you would already have seen including planks, squats, and lunges. However, Lagree follows a unique language where it takes those familiar movements and adds a new flavour. 

Anyone who has ever attended a Lagree class would know the terms like ‘Bear’ or killer move, wheelbarrow (holy abs), and cue the shakes (Escalator Lunge). Lagree has essentially made these exercises a little advanced. Lagree puts a huge focus on maintaining a slow yet steady pace throughout the class. It also emphasises on the ‘time under tension.’ The goal is to target the slow-twitch muscles. 

In this way, you can put a lot of focus on the muscles without damaging the connective tissues and joints. Therefore, all the movements are low-impact even when they are high-intensity. This kind of form allows for a mind-body connection to develop; unlike any other fitness regimen.

The Difference between Pilates and Lagree?

Lagree may have been Pilates-inspired, but it’s quite different from its predecessor (as we just mentioned). The reformer used variable tension which Sebastian took advantage of. Variable tension allowed for slow, low-impact movements. Lagree also incorporates the element of slow movements. But, it’s fundamentally different from all other fitness routines including Pilates.

Ever since its conception, the fitness method has continued to evolve and set itself apart from all other exercises. It combines high-intensity, low-impact workouts; something that Pilates lacked majorly. Another thing worth noticing is that Pilates was designed to be a one-on-one method whereas Lagree was designed for a group setting. 

What’s more, Pilates was largely designed to promote healing and wellness which is why it’s often a part of physical rehabilitation programs. Lagree, in striking contrast, was designed to encourage tightening and toning of muscles, better strength, stronger core, and even good cardio. This is why the method is called ‘Pilates on steroids.’ No other method provides a wholesome, full-body workout the way Lagree does.

How Should I Prep for My First Lagree Fitness

Taking care of the following will help you enjoy a successful workout session – 

• Try to come at least 10 minutes earlier than the scheduled time at the studio. In this way, the instructors get plenty of time to go over the machine, how to use it, and precautions to take. Arriving just before the class may not leave enough time to go through the safety protocols and you may not be able to attend the class.
• Always stick with athletic and comfortable clothing
• Bring sticky socks with you. If you don’t have sticky socks, you can purchase them at the studio for about fifteen bucks. Stick socks come in handy for sanitary purposes.
• Bring a water bottle and a towel if you tend to sweat a lot.
• Be sure to sign the waiver before attending the class. You can do so electronically via email.

What to Do/Expect from Your First Class?

The whole class takes place on the patented M3S Megaformer model. Each class would work on your abs, upper body, and lower body. Listen attentively to your coaches as they explain each movement. If necessary, ask questions. Coaches are always there to help you and correct your form.

Lastly, don’t forget to go slow and have a ton of fun.

After-class Health Benefits

There are a ton of apparent health benefits you will begin to notice right from the first Lagree session. Here are some other health benefits of this fitness method – 

• Better coordination, balance, and posture
• Improved flexibility
• Less stress and better mood
• Higher self-esteem 
• Weight loss
• Stronger muscles and better cardiovascular productivity
• Stronger bones due to better bone mineral concentration
• Optimal metabolic rate

A little bit of soreness and pain is alright after the first couple of classes. In time, your body will adapt to the new movements and get used to them.

Bottom Line

This article is brought to you by Lagree Fit 415. Want to learn the difference between Lagree Fitness and pilates? Read our informative article here and dive into Lagree fitness! If you are based in San Francisco, sign-up for your first Lagree Fit 415 class here.