Lagree Method Vs. Traditional Pilates

May 16, 2024

Fitness, Healthy Living

The world of fitness offers various paths to achieving personal health goals. Two popular choices are Pilates and Lagree Fitness. Both methodologies boast a strong foundation in core strength development, improved flexibility, and enhanced posture.

However, the benefits of Lagree Fitness have emerged as a high-intensity, dynamic alternative inspired by traditional Pilates principles. This blog delves into the key differences between both and their undeniable benefits.

Traditional Pilates

Developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, traditional Pilates is a mind-body exercise system focused on controlled movements emphasizing core engagement, proper breathing, and postural alignment. The practice utilizes various equipment to enhance the workout, including reformers, chairs, stability balls, and a mat.

Focus on Control: Traditional Pilates prioritize precise and controlled movements over speed or intensity.
Core Engagement: Exercises target the deep abdominal and back muscles, building a strong core that supports overall posture and movement.
Breathing Techniques: Coordinated breathing is integral to Pilates, improving oxygen flow and enhancing exercise efficiency.
Postural Correction: Traditional Pilates help correct postural imbalances and promotes better alignment by strengthening key muscle groups and improving body awareness.

Traditional Pilates utilize a variety of equipment to enhance specific exercises. Reformers, chairs, and stability balls are commonly used alongside mat exercises, offering a diverse and adaptable workout experience.

Lagree Method

Sebastien Lagree, inspired by traditional Pilates principles, created Lagree Fitness as a dynamic and high-intensity alternative. Lagree Method is a Pilates-based method. It incorporates faster tempos, isometric holds (where you maintain a position against resistance), and a wider range of motion for a more demanding workout.

The cornerstone equipment of the Lagree Method is the Megaformer, a specialized machine offering various resistance options through springs and levers. The benefits of Lagree Method target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, delivering a full-body workout along with maximizing efficiency and

High-Intensity Focus: Lagree prioritizes achieving maximum muscle fatigue through faster movements and isometric holds.
Dynamic Movements: The wider range of motion in Lagree Method challenges your body in new ways compared to traditional Pilates.
Megaformer Advantage: The Megaformer allows for controlled resistance adjustments, catering to individual fitness levels.
Full-Body Focus: Lagree’s multi-muscle group targeting ensures a comprehensive workout that strengthens and tones your entire body.

Key Differences Between Lagree and Traditional Pilates

While both the Lagree Method and traditional Pilates share a foundation in core strength and postural improvement, they offer distinct workout experiences. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences: [1]

Feature	Traditional Pilates	Lagree Fitness
Intensity	Moderate, controlled movements	High-intensity, challenging workouts
Focus	Controlled movements, proper form	Achieving maximum muscle fatigue
Equipment	Reformers, chairs, stability balls, mats	Primarily Megaformer, some variations
Target Audience	Broad audience, beginners welcome	Individuals with a base level of fitness
Movement Tempo	Slower, controlled pace	Faster tempos, isometric holds
Range of Motion	Smaller, more focused movements	Wider range of motion
Muscle Focus	Primarily core, isolated groups	Multiple muscle groups simultaneously
Calorie Burn	Moderate calorie burn	Higher calorie burn
Cardiovascular Impact	Lower Impact	May elevate heart rate more

Benefits of Lagree Method

Lagree Fitness is based on eight pillars of effectiveness. Here are a few benefits of Lagree Method for individuals seeking a high-intensity, results-oriented workout.

1. Faster Results

The high-intensity nature of Lagree Method, emphasizing achieving maximum muscle fatigue, can lead to quicker muscle tone, strength, and endurance improvements. Studies have shown that Lagree workouts can activate more muscle fibers than traditional Pilates, potentially accelerating muscle growth and definition.

2. Increased Calorie Burn

The dynamic movements and faster pace of Lagree classes translate to a higher calorie burn during the workout. Additionally, Lagree can trigger the “afterburn effect” (EPOC), where your metabolism remains elevated for hours post-workout, further increasing calorie expenditure.

3. Improved Cardiovascular Health

While not solely a cardio-focused exercise, Lagree’s faster tempos and challenging nature can elevate your heart rate and improve cardiovascular health. This benefit is particularly appealing for individuals seeking a workout incorporating strength training and cardiovascular elements. [2]

4. Challenge

For those who thrive on pushing their limits, Lagree provides a constant challenge. The combination of fast-paced movements, isometric holds, and the unique resistance system of the Megaformer creates a workout that continuously pushes you to reach your full fitness potential. This continuous challenge fosters a sense of accomplishment and keeps your workouts exciting and engaging.

5. Full-Body Focus

Lagree exercises target multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This holistic method leads to a more efficient workout that not only tones but also strengthens your entire body in a single session.

Who Benefits Most from the Lagree Method?

The benefits of Lagree Fitness aren’t for everyone but shine for individuals seeking a high-octane workout experience. Here’s who might find benefits of Lagree Method a perfect fit:

Fitness Enthusiasts: Those with a base fitness level who crave a challenge will find Lagree pushes them to new limits.
Results-Oriented Individuals: People seeking quicker muscle tone, strength, and endurance improvements can benefit from Lagree’s high intensity.
Those Who Love a Challenge: Lagree’s dynamic movements and constant push to reach fatigue are ideal for individuals who thrive on exceeding their limits.
Time-Crunched Individuals: The efficiency of Lagree Method allows for a full-body workout in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.

Conclusion

Both Lagree and traditional Pilates offer valuable paths to achieving your fitness goals. Whether you prioritize controlled movements and postural correction (traditional Pilates) or a high-intensity, dynamic workout with faster results (Lagree), there’s a perfect option. Consider your fitness level, goals, and preferences when making your choice. Remember, a qualified instructor can guide you further and ensure you get the most out of your chosen practice.

FAQs

Do you lose weight with Lagree?

Absolutely! The high intensity burns calories during your workout, boosting your metabolism for continued calorie burn. However, remember, a healthy diet is key for weight loss. [3]

Is Lagree better than Pilates?

It depends on your goals. The Lagree Method offers a faster-paced, high-intensity workout for quicker results. Traditional Pilates focuses on controlled movements and core strength, which is ideal for beginners or those seeking a more foundational approach.