Reformer Pilates vs Lagree: What’s The Difference?
If you’ve ever searched for low-impact workouts, chances are you’ve come across both Reformer Pilates and Lagree. While they may look similar at first glance — both use machine-based movement and slow, controlled exercises — they are actually two very different movement modalities with different intentions, pacing, and goals.
And the truth is: one is not “better” than the other. They simply offer different experiences for different bodies, seasons of life, and movement goals.
The best workout is the one that makes you feel good, supports your body, and keeps you coming back consistently.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is rooted in the original Pilates method created by Joseph Pilates. It focuses on:
Core strength
Alignment and posture
Breathwork
Mobility and flexibility
Spinal mechanics
Controlled, intentional movement
Using the reformer machine, springs create both support and resistance, allowing movements to be adapted for many different bodies and abilities.
One of the most beautiful things about Pilates is that it meets you where you are. Exercises can be modified for beginners, advanced movers, injuries, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, chronic pain, and more.
What Is Lagree?
Lagree is a high-intensity fitness method created by Sebastien Lagree. It also uses a spring-based machine (the Megaformer), but the workout style and goals are very different from traditional Pilates.
Lagree focuses more on:
Muscular endurance
Intensity and time under tension
Cardio and strength combined
Full-body muscular fatigue
Continuous movement with minimal rest
Classes are often faster-paced and designed to create a deep muscle burn and elevated heart rate while still remaining low impact on the joints.
While Lagree may visually resemble Pilates, it is considered its own fitness modality — not a form of Pilates.
The Biggest Differences
Pace & Intensity
Reformer Pilates is typically slower, more intentional, and focused on precision and control.
Lagree tends to be higher intensity, faster transitioning, and more physically demanding from a muscular endurance standpoint.
Goal of Movement
Pilates emphasizes balanced strength, alignment, stability, mobility, and overall body function.
Lagree emphasizes muscle fatigue, endurance, and intensity-driven strength training.
Accessibility & Modifications
Pilates is incredibly adaptable for many populations, including:
Pregnancy and postpartum
Injury recovery
Chronic pain or joint concerns
Beginners to exercise
Older adults
Athletic cross-training
Lagree can also be low impact, but because of its intensity and prolonged muscle loading, it may not be the best fit for every body or every season.
Mind-Body Connection
Pilates places a strong emphasis on breath, nervous system regulation, body awareness, and quality of movement.
Lagree tends to focus more on physical challenge, endurance, and pushing muscular limits.
“Low Impact” Does Not Mean “Easy”
Both Reformer Pilates and Lagree are low-impact modalities, meaning they are generally gentler on the joints compared to high-impact exercise like running or jumping.
But low impact does not mean easy.
Pilates can be deeply challenging in a way that prioritizes control, stability, and longevity. Many people are surprised by how effective slower, more intentional movement can be.
Pilates for Real Bodies
One of the reasons so many people fall in love with Reformer Pilates is because it can support real-life bodies through real-life experiences.
Pilates can be beneficial for:
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery
Injury rehabilitation
Pelvic floor awareness
Improving posture and mobility
Building strength safely
Nervous system support and stress reduction
Aging bodies seeking sustainable movement
Movement does not need to leave you feeling destroyed to be effective.
So… Which One Should You Choose?
The answer is simple: choose the movement modality that feels best for your body.
Some people thrive in the intensity and burn of Lagree. Others prefer the mindful, restorative strength-building approach of Pilates. And many people enjoy both for different reasons.
Your movement practice should support your life — not punish your body.
Whether you choose Reformer Pilates, Lagree, strength training, walking, yoga, or a combination of modalities, the goal is sustainable movement that helps you feel strong, connected, and well.
Because movement should enhance your life, not exhaust it.
