Lagree vs Reformer Pilates: What’s the difference and which is right for you?
You may have heard of Reformer Pilates, or you may even practise it regularly.
If you have, your first look at the Lagree equipment may feel reassuringly familiar. Like a Reformer, it uses springs and a moving carriage to create resistance through controlled movement.
Once the class begins, however, the difference becomes clear.
The Holistic Warehouse’s Lagree studio in Tradeston, Glasgow.
Lagree vs Reformer Pilates at a glance
Both methods offer challenging, low-impact movement. The main difference lies in how they use the equipment and structure the class.
| Comparison | Lagree | Reformer Pilates |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | A strength-training method built around sustained muscular tension. | A Pilates method that uses spring resistance to support controlled movement. |
| Equipment | At THW, Lagree takes place on the Mini Pro, a spring-loaded machine with a moving carriage and platforms at each end. | An Align Reformer uses a sliding carriage and adjustable springs. Its footbar and straps support exercises in different positions. |
| Movement | Movements are very slow, with short transitions between exercises. | Movements are controlled, but the pace varies with the exercise and teaching approach. |
| How challenge builds | Sustained resistance keeps your muscles working for longer. | You control the carriage through each exercise, with attention to alignment and technique. |
| Class experience | Continuous, with sustained effort and little rest between movements. | More varied in position and pace, with transitions between sequences. |
Each method creates different challenges. Lagree works your muscles through slow movement and short transitions, while Reformer Pilates uses spring resistance within controlled Pilates sequences.
In both, however, your teacher explains the equipment and helps you find the right level. They can adjust the spring resistance or change the movement as you learn.
What do Lagree and Reformer Pilates have in common?
In both methods, the carriage moves against spring resistance, so you must control it rather than rely on momentum. The springs and movements can be adjusted, allowing your teacher to change how much support or challenge you receive.
Both methods can work the whole body without relying on repeated jumping or landing. However, low impact does not mean easy or suitable for every injury. If you have an injury or health condition, speak to your instructor before class.
The Holistic Warehouse's Reformer Pilates studio in Tradeston, Glasgow.
How are Lagree and Reformer Pilates different?
Lagree and Reformer Pilates use different machines. Although both have springs and a moving carriage, their equipment reflects the different approaches.
At THW, Lagree takes place on the Mini Pro.
Its moving carriage sits between platforms at each end, giving you different positions from which to work against resistance.
Lagree is a strength-training method. You move very slowly against the spring resistance, keeping your muscles working throughout each exercise. Transitions are short, helping the class maintain its intensity.
Our Reformer Pilates classes use Align Reformers.
These have a moving carriage and adjustable springs, while the footbar and straps support exercises in different positions. Your teacher may also use smaller pieces of equipment to change how an exercise feels.
Reformer Pilates is built around the Pilates method. You control the carriage as you move through a sequence of exercises, paying attention to your alignment and technique. The pace and amount of support can change throughout the class.
The difference is not simply that one method is harder than the other. Both can offer a strong physical challenge. What changes is how that challenge is created and how the class feels while you are doing it.
Which is right for you?
The right choice depends less on which method is better and more on how you like to be challenged.
You do not have to choose one method exclusively. At THW, we believe different forms of exercise can each offer something valuable. This is consistent with a large observational study of more than 111,000 adults: a wider range of activities was associated with a lower risk of premature death, even after researchers accounted for how much exercise people did.
You can use Lagree and Reformer Pilates for different class experiences rather than treating one as a replacement for the other. What feels right may also change as you become more familiar with each method.
What should you expect from your first class?
You do not need previous experience to try either method at THW. Your teacher will introduce you to the equipment and explain each movement as the class progresses.
In your first Lagree class, expect the slow pace to feel more demanding than it looks. Your teacher can adjust the resistance or offer a different position, allowing you to learn the method while continuing to take part.
In your first Reformer Pilates class, your teacher will help you become familiar with the equipment. They will guide your technique and adapt exercises where needed.
Grip socks are required for both Lagree and Reformer Pilates. Bring your own or buy a pair at the studio before class.
If you are pregnant, newly postnatal, injured or managing a health condition, contact us before booking. This allows us to understand your needs and advise whether the class is suitable for you.
How can you book Lagree and Reformer Pilates at THW?
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Lagree and Reformer Pilates share some equipment features, but they are different methods. Lagree is a strength workout based on sustained muscular tension. Reformer Pilates follows the principles of Pilates.
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Not necessarily. Lagree maintains intensity through very slow movement and short transitions. Reformer Pilates can also be demanding, but the challenge changes with the exercises and class level.
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Yes. You do not need previous experience to try either method at THW. Your teacher will explain the equipment and adapt the resistance or movement to help you get started.
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Yes. Lagree and Reformer Pilates offer different class experiences, so you do not need to choose one exclusively. Trying both can help you discover which type of challenge suits you at different times.
