Delving into the depths of muscle tissues.
Introduction
In the heart of Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, Germany, a fitness enthusiast embarked on their first Lagree class in 2023, marking the expansion of this modern take on Pilates beyond its birthplace, Los Angeles.
Origins and Development
Lagree Fitness, a high-intensity, low-impact workout primarily using the Megaformer machine, was created by Sebastien Lagree as a contemporary evolution of Pilates. Originating in Los Angeles, it quickly gained popularity as a boutique fitness trend, known for its intense efficiency and full-body conditioning[1][2].
Lagree Fitness grew out of Pilates, invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. While Pilates emphasizes controlled movements focusing on core strength, balance, and flexibility, Lagree Fitness intensifies this approach by incorporating continuous tension and relatively fast-paced transitions on the Megaformer, a piece of equipment similar but more robust and versatile than the traditional Pilates Reformer[1].
Popularity in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the epicenter of Lagree Fitness. The city’s fitness culture, celebrity endorsements, and boutique studio demand helped this method flourish. Megaformer classes are a staple in many upscale Los Angeles gyms and studios, attracting clients looking for effective, efficient workouts that combine strength, cardio, and flexibility training[1][2].
Popularity in Europe
Lagree Fitness has gradually penetrated European markets, notably in places with strong Pilates and boutique fitness followings like the UK, Germany, and France. However, its adoption is less widespread than in Los Angeles, largely due to the higher cost of specialized equipment (the Megaformer) and the entrenched presence of traditional Pilates and other fitness regimes[1].
European fitness communities appreciate Lagree for its Pilates roots and intense, time-efficient training style, increasingly offering Megaformer classes at premium fitness centers, though it remains more niche compared to the US market[1].
The Author's Experience
In Düsseldorf, the author found a studio housing futuristic Megaformer machines, marking the city's sole Lagree studio. The class, scheduled from 11:15 to 12:00, took place in a glass-walled, bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows, situated among a bustling shopping street. The author, with initial thoughts of no issues arising during the class, was about to experience the Lagree method firsthand[1][2].
| Aspect | Los Angeles | Europe | |-------------------|---------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Origins | Birthplace of Lagree Fitness | Later adoption, from the US trend | | Fitness culture | Boutique studios, celebrity endorsement | Growing but niche, premium gyms | | Equipment | Megaformer widely available | More limited due to cost | | Popularity level | Highly popular and established | Increasing but still niche | | Focus | High-intensity, low-impact strength and endurance | Pilates-inspired strength training |
In essence, Lagree Fitness is a Los Angeles-born evolution of Pilates that found its strongest foothold there but is progressively gaining traction across Europe as an advanced, high-intensity Pilates-based workout system leveraging the Megaformer[1][2].
