top of page
Lagree machine in the Lagree studio

LAGREE VS. PILATES

Lagree Machine

We have Pilates, Lagree, and a bunch of workouts in between. Many of these classes look the same on the surface, but Pilates and Lagree are not the same. I think of these two methods as yin and yang. It's not that one is better than the other, but they are different, and they can complement each other.

Sebastien Lagree

Low+impact+high+intensity+workout+.png

Lagree

Strength + Cardio + Endurance in a single workout

Allegro_Reformer_Main.png

Pilates

Low-impact training focused on flexibility, posture and core.

What is the Lagree method?

41be3d_ef35197a849948bcb57d110e7da0137c~mv2.avif
De confiança per més de 500 membres ➺ Lagree Sant Cugat ➺
Lagree vs Pilates

Lagree is an intense, low-impact workout that strengthens, tones, and improves endurance and core strength.

It is performed on the Megaformer and combines slow, controlled movements with constant muscle tension to offer maximum results in the least amount of time.

Unlike traditional workouts, Lagree works multiple muscle groups at once, taking the body to fatigue safely and effectively.

Lagree training on Mega Pro machine for strength and toning
ChatGPT Image Apr 9, 2026, 11_56_48 AM.png

LAGREE VS. PILATES

ChatGPT Image Apr 9, 2026, 11_01_35 AM.png

We have Pilates, Lagree, and a bunch of workouts in between. Many of these classes look the same on the surface, but Pilates and Lagree are not the same. I think of these two methods as yin and yang. It's not that one is better than the other, but they are different, and they can complement each other.

Sebastien Lagree

Low+impact+high+intensity+workout+.png

Lagree

Strength + Cardio + Endurance in a single workout

Allegro_Reformer_Main.png

Pilates

Low-impact training focused on flexibility, posture and core.

KEY DIFFERENCES

Pilates focuses on control and flexibility, while Lagree combines strength, endurance and cardio.

e417b8c8-1925-4956-8901-fadaa83c288.jpg

The team for each class is different.

“The only connection between Lagree and Pilates is the machine itself,” says Lagree. However, a classic Pilates machine is completely different from Lagree’s machine. A Pilates reformer is usually made of wood and is smaller, and Lagree’s machine has two sliding platforms instead of one. Both machines allow for low-impact workouts, but Lagree’s machine is generally designed for high-intensity workouts and building muscle endurance.

Woman doing leg exercises on Lagree machine for toning and muscle strength

The classroom environment can be completely different

It's no secret that every fitness class has its own vibe, especially in the world of Pilates. Classic Pilates reformer classes, for example, tend to be smaller, and sometimes don't include music or are done at a slower, more mindful pace. Lagree, on the other hand, is taught to the beat of the music and can be more energetic, and while the movements are slow and controlled, the transitions are quick.

Lagree class with trainer leading a group in intense functional training

Pilates usually involves more stretching

Another key difference between Pilates and Lagree is the presence or absence of stretching, which varies depending on the studio and class you attend. “Stretching is a big part of traditional Pilates, but it’s not really a part of what happens in most machine-based workouts,” says Sebastien Lagree. Regardless of what type of exercise you’re doing, though, make sure to stretch before, after, and even throughout the day, some trainers say. The benefits of stretching far outweigh the risks.

Woman training on Lagree Mega Pro machine to strengthen core and endurance

Pilates is rooted in rehabilitation, and Lagree was more inspired by bodybuilding

“Joseph Pilates believed in the healing qualities of movement, and that movement helped you build a stronger immune system,” says Lagree. “He created a whole system to [help people] create a healthy life, and Pilates is a beautiful method. There’s no reason to change it.” Alignment, awareness, breathing, and concentration are key in Pilates, and while muscle development is possible, it’s not necessarily the primary goal.

Lagree group training with resistance and balance exercises

Both workouts help your torso, but Lagree has a greater emphasis on muscle development.

There’s a lot more strength and endurance training in a machine-based workout like Lagree.” That’s why you can finish a Pilates class feeling like you’ve worked hard but aren’t completely exhausted, whereas Lagree can feel more like an intense boot camp. People call Lagree “Pilates on steroids.”

e417b8c8-1925-4956-8901-fadaa.jpg

Lagree can make your heart rate increase more

“You’re much more likely to sweat and get your heart rate up [in Lagree] than you are in a Pilates class.” “I’m not saying you won’t sweat at all, but I think the biggest difference is mainly the intensity and the incorporation of functional strength training. That’s really the bread and butter of machine-based workouts.”

ChatGPT Image Apr 9, 2026, 07_07_58 PM.png

Lagree Vs. Pilates - d’un cop d’ull

Feature

Lagree Method

Pilates

Intensity

High intensity, slow and controlled

Low to moderate

Speed of results

Faster muscle transformation

Gradual improvement

Equipment

Megaformer

Reformer / Mat

Muscle activation

Continuous tension

Intermitent

Cardiovascular effect

Yes

Minimum

Time efficiency

High

Moderate

bottom of page