When it comes to low-impact, muscle-toning workouts that emphasize control, balance, and endurance, both Lagree and Pilates come to mind—but they’re not the same. While they share some equipment similarities and a focus on functional fitness, they’re designed for distinct purposes, targeting different muscle groups and achieving specific goals. Here, we’ll look at the differences between Lagree Megaformer workouts, Pilates, and other equipment-based classes, so you can decide which is right for you.
Lagree Method: High-Intensity, Low-Impact Training for Big Muscle Groups
Lagree is a trademarked workout method developed by Sebastien Lagree, centered around a piece of equipment called the Megaformer. Though it uses similar, spring-loaded resistance mechanics to the Pilates Reformer, Lagree’s approach and goals set it apart.
Lagree does not consider itself Pilates, nor is it intended to replace it. The Megaformer is used to deliver a high-intensity yet low-impact workout, ideal for building muscular strength and endurance in the larger muscle groups, such as the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and core.
Because of its high-intensity nature, Lagree is often marketed to people looking for challenging, sweat-inducing workouts without the high impact of traditional cardio. Lagree is designed to push the body to a point of muscle fatigue, which helps to build endurance and a leaner physique. Though it’s low-impact and easy on the joints, Lagree’s emphasis on continuous, dynamic movements makes it ideal for boosting metabolic rate and burning calories long after the workout is complete.
Pilates Method: Focusing on Alignment, Mobility, and Smaller Muscles
Pilates, developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, focuses more on using smaller muscle groups to build strength, mobility, and proper alignment. Rather than targeting large muscles exclusively, Pilates targets stabilizing muscles that play an essential role in posture, joint health, and balanced movement. With an emphasis on precise, controlled movements, Pilates helps to improve overall body awareness and joint alignment, leading to better support for the spine and other joints, reducing the risk of injuries.
The Pilates Reformer, which might resemble the Megaformer at first glance, is designed with springs to create both resistance and support, helping clients work against resistance while keeping control of every movement. This workout is excellent for increasing strength and mobility simultaneously. While it may not be as high-intensity as Lagree, Pilates provides a unique focus on balance, flexibility, and coordination that benefits all fitness levels and serves as a foundation for other activities.
Benefits of Both Workouts and Why Each Has Its Place
Though they have different primary goals, Lagree and Pilates workouts both offer valuable benefits. Pilates can help prepare the body for high-intensity workouts by ensuring joints and alignment are supported, making it a complementary practice for those who engage in Lagree. On the other hand, Lagree can be useful for Pilates lovers looking to increase their strength and endurance. Both workouts can be ideal additions to a well-rounded fitness routine, and each has something unique to offer.
While Pilates stands in a class of its own, alternatives to Lagree, like barre or yoga sculpt classes, offer similar benefits. Barre classes, which combine elements of ballet, Pilates, and strength training, can offer low-impact workouts that challenge endurance, strength, and balance. Like Lagree, barre workouts focus on higher reps and targets the bigger muscle groups for a similar full-body muscular fatigue like what the Megaformer provides.
A Word of Caution: Choose Your Studio Carefully
With the popularity of both Lagree and Pilates, many studios now offer workouts on machines that look similar to the Megaformer or Pilates Reformer. However, not all studios have trained instructors, and the machines used in these studios may not meet the safety standards of certified equipment. Fast, uncontrolled movements combined with limited instructor training can lead to a higher risk of injury, especially for beginners.
For those new to machine-based workouts, it’s advisable to start with a Pilates Equipment class like The Fit In's Pilates Reformed. Pilates instructors are required to undergo extensive training in anatomy, alignment, and injury prevention, ensuring that the exercises support both safety and effectiveness. Once you’re familiar with the basics, you’ll be better prepared to explore other machine-based workouts.
Final Thoughts
Both Lagree and Pilates have become cornerstones in the fitness industry for a reason. While Lagree focuses on high-intensity endurance training for large muscle groups, Pilates emphasizes alignment, mobility, and the smaller muscles that help keep the body balanced and safe. Whether you’re looking to boost strength, endurance, mobility, or all three, incorporating these practices into your fitness regimen can help you reach your goals. Just be sure to choose reputable studios with qualified instructors to ensure a safe and beneficial experience.
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