You've heard of Lagree and want to understand a class. Studios can explain equipment, levels and trial arrangements. This guide presents useful questions before booking and points to observe when discovering the method.
What is the Lagree Method?
The Lagree method (officially Lagree Fitness™) is a training method developed by Sebastien Lagree. Ask the studio about the class format and equipment used.
Concretely, it's:
- A slow, controlled, high-intensity workout
- Classes use equipment intended for the method, including: the Megaformer
- Find the stated duration in the studio schedule
- The pace is explained by the instructor and may include adaptations.
- The work offered includes: core control, strength and muscular endurance depending on class content
To understand what you will discover, ask about an introduction to the class and its settings.
The Megaformer and studio equipment
Visually, the Megaformer resembles a Pilates Reformer; appearance alone does not compare the exercises or guidance. Features depend on the model used.
| Pilates Reformer | Megaformer | |
|---|---|---|
| Designed by | Joseph Pilates | Sebastien Lagree |
| Width | Depends on the model | Depends on the model |
| Carriage | Learn about carriage and settings at the studio | Learn about carriage and settings at the studio |
| Springs | Settings depend on machine and class | Settings depend on machine and class |
| Fixed platforms | Dimensions depend on the model | Dimensions depend on the model |
| Straps & handles | Accessories depend on the machine | Accessories depend on the machine |
| Equipment information | Ask the studio | Ask the studio |
Compare Lagree and Reformer Pilates
Often confused, these are actually approaches to compare with the studio programme:
Pilates Reformer
- Ask about exercise introductions and settings
- Main objective : control and positioning directions
- Pace: depends on exercises and class
- Intensity: ask about the advertised level
- Feel: personal, to observe during a trial
- Beginner introduction: ask the studio
Lagree
- Ask about slow movements and resistance work
- Main objective : strength and muscular endurance according to class
- Pace: follow the instructor's directions
- Intensity: ask about the options offered
- Feel: personal, to observe during a trial
- Beginner introduction: ask the studio
→ To discover Reformer Pilates → ask for a class suited to your experience.
→ To discover Lagree → also ask about the level and guidance offered.
Five points to notice in the directions
1. Slowness
Slow movements are a class reference point. For each exercise, follow the pace explained by the instructor.2. Constant Tension
Resistance work can be explained during the introduction. Ask about the settings and adaptations intended for you.3. Exercise sequences
Observe how exercises are sequenced and how the instructor explains moving between positions.4. Breaks and questions
Ask how to report discomfort, raise a question or take a break during class.5. Adaptations
Ask about available variations and how the instructor supports you in learning them.What to observe during a trial?
The format
- Demonstration of movements
- Progression of explanations
- Time to understand settings
- Transitions between positions
- Options offered during class
Guidance
- The opportunity to ask questions
- Clarity of directions
- Introduction of adaptations
- Attention to your experience
Your experience
- What you understood about the class
- Sensations to note after the trial
- Your wish to return or compare another class
Which class for your experience?
Ask the studio
- The advertised level and content
- Differences from classes you know
- Support for learning the equipment
- Adaptations offered for your experience
- Arrangements for a first trial
Situations to discuss individually before booking
- Complete beginners in sport : ask about an introductory class
- Returning after an injury : take the directions of the professional supporting you into account
- Pregnancy or postpartum : discuss the choice with the professional supporting you and the studio
- Any restriction already given by a health professional
Understand the class format
| Phase | Arrangement | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Warm-up | Depends on the class | Introduction and starting directions |
| Block 1 — Legs/Glutes | Depends on the class | Exercises introduced by the instructor |
| Block 2 — Abs/Core | Depends on the class | Positions and adaptations explained |
| Block 3 — Arms/Back | Depends on the class | Settings and directions for the exercise |
| Block 4 — Combined | Depends on the class | Sequences according to the programme |
| Stretching | Depends on the class | End-of-class directions |
The Cost: What to Expect?
Offers to compare with the studio
- Single class : check current price and conditions
- 5-class pack : check current price and conditions
- 10-class pack : check current price and conditions
- Unlimited monthly subscription : check current price and conditions
Practical information to check before booking
- Studio address and journey time
- Schedule and places offered
- Class level
- Equipment used
- Booking and cancellation conditions
Check the studio's current information before travelling.
How to Get Started (4 Tips)
1. Ask about an introductory class
Before booking, describe your experience and ask how equipment will be introduced. The class name and guidance vary by studio.2. Take time to learn the directions
A first class may raise questions. Ask about settings or position changes rather than fixing a deadline for mastering the method.3. Build a suitable schedule
Consider your availability, other activities and impressions after classes. If you want to continue, discuss class arrangements with the instructor.4. Arrange activities for your preferences
If you practise other activities, keep them in mind when arranging your week. These arrangements remain personal.The Ideal Outfit (see our dedicated article)
Three points for preparing your belongings:
- Top and bottoms comfortable in movement according to studio directions
- Non-slip socks if required by the studio
- Fit and fabric to try on without inferring grip from appearance
→ Our complete article on Lagree attire .
The method in one sentence
If you had to summarize Lagree to someone who has never tried it:
Lagree offers resistance work with slow movements on equipment intended for the method; learn about the class and adaptations with the instructor.
