The media has coined a few interesting phrases in attempting to describe Lagree Fitness, many of which reference Pilates.
“Pilates on steroids.”
“Pilates on crack.”
“If the standard reformer machine is a Toyota, the Megaformer is like a Ferrari.”
So what are the real differences between the Pilates and Lagree Fitness methods…And more importantly, the results?
What is Pilates?
The Pilates method, also known as “Contrology”, is a corrective system of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1930’s, when it became popular with dancers as a method of training and rehabilitation. The method teaches awareness of breath and encourages the use of the mind to control muscles. Attention focuses on building flexibility and strengthening “the powerhouse”, the core postural muscles that help keep the body balanced and provide support for the spine.
Basic Pilates exercises are performed on a mat using resistance bands and magic circles. More advanced exercises require apparatus including the traditional Reformer, Wunda Chair or Tower.
What is Lagree Fitness?
Lagree Fitness, previously known as Pilates Plus or SPX Fitness, is a full body conditioning workout developed by Sebastien Lagree over 15 years. It is the only workout that effectively combines strength, endurance, cardio, balance, core and flexibility training, not only in every session but in each and every move. The method trains the body at the correct intensity to effectively stimulate the muscles, maximising results in minimal time.
Exercises are performed on patented Lagree Fitness Equipment including the Proformer, Megaformer and Ramp attachment. New equipment, the Supraformer and iFormer, are currently in pre-production testing.
LaFit Studio is the only studio in Perth where you can try the Lagree Fitness method.
Some key comparisons
Element |
Reformer |
Megaformer |
| Resistance |
Spring resistance is variable and allows for muscle contraction while reducing the stress on the joints and the connective tissue. Typical reformers have 4 or 5 springs.
|
Spring resistance is variable and allows for peak muscle contraction while reducing the stress on the joints and the connective tissue. The Megaformer has 8 springs, ensuring maximum intensity for even the strongest participant. |
| Range of motion | Focus on form and keeping each movement within the range of motion that targets the specific muscle or group of muscles. | Focus on form and keeping each movement within the range of motion that targets the specific muscle or group of muscles. |
| Angle | Equipment is slightly adjustable to allow for training at different angles to help recruit different muscle groups. | Equipment has many options to adjust the angle of the movement to allow for training at different angles to help recruit different muscle groups. Many different exercises and routine combinations are possible. |
| Tempo | Aims for flow through the use of the appropriate transitions. | Utilises slow and controlled movements of at least 4 seconds in, 4 seconds out. None of the movements are performed using momentum. When working with and against resistance slowly, the tension on muscles stays constant, recruiting more muscle fibres. Slow and controlled movements activate the slow-twitch fat-burning muscle fibres. |
| Duration | Sets are composed of repetitions. Duration is heavily influenced by the set breath pattern of the movement. | Each set is performed for at least 60 seconds to stimulate both the fast and slow-twitch muscle fibres. Transitions are kept to a minimum to keep the muscles working and the heart rate up. |
Results
Pilates and Lagree Fitness are both recognised globally as excellent methods of improving flexibility, core strength and balance without impact on the joints, spine and connective tissues. However, the Lagree Fitness method achieves superior results in body composition and fat loss, cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength and endurance by reaching effective muscle stimulation.
Lagree Fitness is currently performing an ongoing clinical study comparing Lagree Fitness Equipment against the traditional reformer. In the first trial, participants wore 14 electrodes placed either on the right or left side of the body on different muscle groups. They then performed similar exercises on the Reformer and the Lagree Fitness Equipment.
The results, illustrated in the graphic above, found Lagree Fitness achieved 120% greater muscle stimulation.
Whether you have been practising Pilates for years or are a total novice, if you're looking for a fitness challenge you need to try "Pilates on steroids" at LaFit Studio, Perth's only Lagree Fitness studio.
