When it comes to fitness trends, Pilates and Lagree are two popular exercise methods that have gained considerable attention in recent years.
Both approaches emphasize core strength, flexibility, and improved body alignment, but they are very much not the same concept; they differ significantly in terms of technique, equipment, and intensity.
Pilates: The Art of Controlled Movement
Pilates is a full-body, low impact, mind-body exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It focuses on enhancing core strength, stability, flexibility, and overall body awareness. Here are some notable features of Pilates:
Techniques of Pilates:
Pilates emphasizes controlled movements that engage the deep core muscles, promoting long, lean muscles and proper body alignment.
Equipment Used in Pilates:
Traditional Pilates exercises can be performed on a mat or using specialized equipment such as the Reformer, Cadillac, or Chair (all of which are utilized in a Club Pilates studio setting!). The Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair are apparatuses that all use a spring-based system and moving elements to provide resistance and support to aid in alignment and muscle engagement, while challenging the body.
Benefits of Pilates:
Regular Pilates practice can improve posture, increase flexibility, enhance muscular endurance, and promote mind-body connection. It is often recommended for individuals recovering from injuries or seeking low-impact workouts, including those who want to prevent injury while still getting an effective workout. Many professional athletes choose Pilates for cross-training and rehabilitation, and as is a great, safe yet challenging, and effective way to support muscle growth, flexibility, and stability for runners, swimmers, football players, golfers, and tennis players alike - and so many more!
Because its moves have been credited to lengthening and strengthening the muscles in the entire body (literally and physically!) as a result of Pilates's slow, controlled, resistance training technique, it's also a workout of choice for models, celebrities, dancers, and more.
Note! Club Pilates studios do offer a cardio-based class format, called Cardio Sculpt, which is a good class to level up to for those who want a more low impact, Pilates-based cardio workout in the studio!
Lagree: Intensity and Efficiency
Lagree Fitness, created by Sebastien Lagree, is a high-intensity, low-impact workout method that combines some elements of Pilates with strength training.
Techniques of Lagree:
Lagree exercises are not performed on a Pilates Refomer, but instead on equipment called the Megaformer, which combines a sliding carriage, resistance springs, and various handles and straps. The method focuses on movements with continuous tension, targeting multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
Equipment used in Lagree:
The Megaformer is a central component of Lagree workouts, providing adjustable resistance and an unstable surface, forcing the body to engage stabilizer muscles for balance and control. The lack of stability and differences in its infrastructure make it a piece of equipment that may not be as accessible for, or inclusive of, all populations.
Benefits:
Lagree workouts are known for their high-intensity nature, delivering a full-body workout that can build muscular endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
Pilates can support cardiovascular health as well, but alternatively focuses on controlled, slow, strengthening movements as a central focus instead, which can place the body into a higher heart rate, but not necessarily so high a heart rate as to achieve a grueling level of activity. In fact, many studies indicate that working out at a moderate to high heart rate (which Pilates offers) can improve metabolic function more efficiently in many populations.
When deciding between Pilates and Lagree, consider the following factors:
1. Goals and preferences: Pilates is ideal for individuals seeking a balanced approach to strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It is fantastic for injury prevention, and injury rehabilitation, while strengthening supporting muscles of the joints. If you prefer a more intense, fast-paced workout that combines cardio and strength training, Lagree may be worth testing out.
2. Fitness level: Both methods can be adapted to accommodate various fitness levels, but Lagree tends to be more physically demanding due to its emphasis on intensity and resistance. Do not be mistaken - this does not mean Pilates is easier; in fact, its slow, controlled, focused movements often challenge the body in completely different ways.
Remember, consulting with a qualified fitness professional is always recommended before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure safety and suitability for your specific needs.
