Lagree vs Pilates
Lagree and Pilates share a foundation in controlled, mindful movement — but the similarities stop there. Developed by Sebastien Lagree, the Lagree method takes the core principles of Pilates and amplifies them with higher intensity, continuous tension, and a patented machine called the Megaformer. If you've been debating which method suits your goals, here's an in-depth comparison to help you decide.
Lagree vs Pilates at a Glance
| Category | Lagree | Pilates |
|---|---|---|
| Intensity | High-intensity with continuous tension and no rest periods | Low to moderate intensity with rest between exercises |
| Equipment | Megaformer / Mega Pro with heavy spring resistance | Reformer with lighter spring resistance |
| Calories Burned | 300–600 per 50-minute class | 150–300 per 50-minute class |
| Muscle Engagement | Continuous time-under-tension, works muscles to failure | Controlled repetitions with rest periods |
| Pace | Slow, controlled with seamless transitions | Slow, controlled with pauses between exercises |
| Impact Level | Low-impact, joint-friendly | Low-impact, joint-friendly |
| Best For | Body transformation, strength, and endurance | Rehabilitation, flexibility, and core awareness |
Origins and Philosophy
Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century as a rehabilitation method focused on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Lagree was developed in 2001 by Sebastien Lagree, who wanted a workout that combined the controlled movements of Pilates with the cardiovascular intensity of a high-intensity session. While Pilates prioritises alignment and rehabilitation, Lagree is designed for body transformation through muscular endurance and metabolic conditioning.
Equipment: Reformer vs Megaformer
Traditional Pilates uses a Reformer — a sliding carriage with springs for resistance. Lagree uses the Megaformer (or Mega Pro at Eden Social Club), a larger, more versatile machine with a wider platform, heavier spring resistance, and handles positioned for a greater range of exercises. The Megaformer allows seamless transitions between moves, keeping your heart rate elevated throughout the class.
Intensity and Muscle Engagement
Pilates classes tend to focus on slow, precise movements with periods of rest between exercises. Lagree classes maintain constant tension on the muscles with no rest periods. The slow, controlled tempo (typically 4 seconds per phase) combined with spring resistance means your muscles work to failure, delivering a more intense workout in less time.
Results and Benefits
Both methods improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. However, Lagree's higher intensity means you burn significantly more calories per session — often 300 to 600 calories in a single 50-minute class. Lagree also builds more visible muscle tone due to the progressive overload and time-under-tension approach.
- Lagree burns more calories per session than traditional Pilates
- Both improve flexibility, but Lagree adds cardiovascular conditioning
- Lagree builds more visible muscle definition
- Pilates is gentler and better suited for rehabilitation
- Lagree offers full-body conditioning in every class
The Verdict
If you're looking for a rehabilitation-focused practice or gentle introduction to mindful movement, Pilates is excellent. But if your goal is to transform your body, build lean muscle, and maximise calorie burn in a low-impact setting, Lagree delivers more in less time. At Eden Social Club, our Lagree classes on the Mega Pro machine give you the full Lagree experience in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Experience Lagree at Eden Social Club
Try a Lagree class on the Mega Pro machine and feel the difference for yourself. Book your first session at Eden Social Club in KLGCC, Kuala Lumpur.
Book a ClassLog InLearn more about Lagree Fitness