Traditional Pilates vs. Lagree: Which Is the Better Option for Building Strength, Toning, and Improving Fitness in Porto and Aveiro?

If you’re searching for Pilates classes in Porto or Aveiro, you’ve probably come across references to the Lagree Method. Many people even use the term “Lagree Pilates” when searching online, assuming it’s a variation of traditional Pilates.

While the two methods share some similarities, the reality is that Pilates and Lagree are distinct training methods designed for different goals and capable of delivering very different experiences and results.

So what is the real difference between traditional Pilates and Lagree, and which option is right for you?

What Is Traditional Pilates?

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century and focuses primarily on posture, mobility, core stability, coordination, and movement control.

Classes can be performed on the mat or using specialized equipment such as the Reformer. The method is widely recognized for its benefits in supporting spinal health, preventing injuries, improving posture, and enhancing body awareness.

For many people, Pilates is an excellent way to develop a deeper connection to movement and improve the quality of everyday movement patterns.

What Is the Lagree Method?

The Lagree Method is a fitness training system created by Sebastien Lagree that combines strength training, muscular endurance, core stability, and cardiovascular conditioning in a single workout.

Classes are performed on a machine called the Megaformer, which was specifically designed to create constant resistance throughout every movement.

Unlike Pilates, Lagree’s primary goal is not rehabilitation or mobility. The focus is on building functional strength, muscular endurance, muscle tone, and overall fitness through a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints.

A Lagree class lasts just 45 minutes but delivers a complete full-body workout.

What Is the Difference Between Traditional Pilates and Lagree?

Although both methods emphasize control, precision, and core engagement, there are several important differences.

Intensity

Pilates is generally considered a moderate-intensity workout.

Lagree is significantly more demanding. Muscles remain under tension for extended periods, creating a much greater stimulus for strength and muscular endurance development.

Cardiovascular Component

One of the biggest differences between Pilates and Lagree is the cardiovascular element.

Although movements in Lagree are performed slowly and with control, the heart rate remains elevated throughout most of the class.

Because there are very few pauses between exercises and transitions are continuous, the body is challenged through strength training, muscular endurance, and cardiovascular conditioning simultaneously.

For this reason, many people describe Lagree as a unique combination of strength training and cardio.

Strength Development

Both Pilates and Lagree strengthen the body.

However, Lagree was specifically designed to develop higher levels of strength through progressive resistance and extended time under tension.

As a result, many people notice improvements in strength and muscle definition more quickly when practicing Lagree consistently.

Equipment

Pilates uses a variety of equipment, including the Reformer.

Lagree uses only the Megaformer, which was specifically designed to create more intense muscular challenges and seamless transitions between exercises.

While the machines may appear similar at first glance, they were created for completely different purposes.

Results

Pilates is often chosen by people who want to improve:

• Mobility

• Posture

• Alignment

• Stability

Lagree is often chosen by people who want to:

• Increase strength

• Tone and define muscles

• Improve muscular endurance

• Build core strength

• Improve overall fitness

• Benefit from low-impact cardiovascular training

  
  

Why Many Pilates Clients in Porto and Aveiro Transition to Lagree

Many clients at Forma Fitness Studio first discovered us after years of practicing Pilates.

They appreciated the core-focused work, the attention to posture, and the low-impact nature of the method, but they were looking for an additional challenge.

Lagree provides exactly that progression.

It maintains many of the principles that make Pilates so effective while adding a higher level of intensity, strength development, muscular endurance, and cardiovascular conditioning.

For that reason, many people see Lagree as a natural evolution after years of Pilates practice.

So Which One Is Better?

The answer depends entirely on your goals.

If you’re looking for a method focused on mobility, rehabilitation, posture, and movement quality, Pilates may be an excellent choice.

If you’re looking to build strength, muscular endurance, muscle tone, core stability, and overall fitness through an efficient, low-impact workout, Lagree may be a better fit.

Neither method is better for everyone.

The most important thing is choosing a training method that aligns with your goals and that you can maintain consistently.

Where Can You Try Lagree in Porto and Aveiro?

For people looking for a Pilates alternative in Porto or Aveiro, Forma Fitness Studio offers Lagree classes in small groups, led by certified instructors and performed on original Megaformers.

Our classes combine strength training, muscular endurance, core work, and cardiovascular conditioning in one complete 45-minute workout.

If you’re curious to discover why so many people are choosing Lagree as an alternative to traditional Pilates, we would love to welcome you for an introductory class.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lagree Pilates?

No. Although there are some visual similarities and both methods emphasize control and core engagement, Lagree is a completely different training method focused primarily on strength, muscular endurance, and overall fitness.

Does Lagree Use a Reformer?

No. Lagree uses a machine called the Megaformer, which was specifically developed for the Lagree Method.

Is Lagree Suitable for Beginners?

Yes. Classes can be adapted to different fitness levels, and instructors provide guidance and support throughout the workout.

Does Lagree Build Core Strength?

Yes. The core remains engaged throughout nearly the entire class and is one of the primary muscle groups trained in the Lagree Method.

Is Lagree a Low-Impact Workout?

Yes. Despite its high intensity, Lagree is a low-impact method, meaning it places significantly less stress on the joints compared to many traditional workouts.

Is Lagree Better Than Pilates for Building Strength and Toning?

Both methods offer benefits. However, Lagree is generally more effective for people whose primary goals are strength development, muscular endurance, muscle tone, and overall fitness. Because it combines strength training and cardiovascular conditioning in a single workout, many people in Porto and Aveiro choose Lagree as an alternative to traditional Pilates.

Where Can I Find a Pilates Alternative in Porto?

For people looking for a low-impact workout that combines strength, endurance, core training, and cardiovascular conditioning, Lagree has become one of the most popular alternatives to Pilates in Porto. Forma Fitness Studio offers Lagree classes near Foz, Boavista, Matosinhos, and Parque da Cidade.

Where Can I Find a Pilates Alternative in Aveiro?

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional Pilates in Aveiro, Lagree offers a more strength-focused and conditioning-based approach while remaining low impact on the joints. Forma Fitness Studio offers Lagree classes in Aveiro on original Megaformers.

Is Lagree Available in Portugal?

Yes. Lagree has been growing rapidly in Portugal among people looking for an efficient workout that combines strength, muscular endurance, core training, and cardiovascular conditioning. Forma Fitness Studio was the first studio exclusively dedicated to the Lagree Method in Portugal and currently offers classes in both Porto and Aveiro.