Pilates vs. Lagree: 14 FAQs Answered | Fit Buddha Santa Barbara & Ventura

No. While the Lagree Method draws inspiration from Pilates principles, it is a distinctly different workout. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s as a rehabilitation-focused practice. The Lagree Method was created by Sebastien Lagree in the early 2000s as a high-intensity, full-body conditioning system. Lagree combines strength, endurance, cardio, flexibility, balance, and core training into a single session, and it uses the Megaformer machine rather than a Pilates Reformer. At Fit Buddha, we specialize exclusively in the Lagree Method on the Megaformer.

The Megaformer and the Pilates Reformer are two different machines. Although the Megaformer was originally inspired by the Reformer, the similarities end there. The Megaformer features a sliding platform with adjustable spring resistance, straps, a foot bar, and handles that allow you to perform pushing and pulling exercises in multiple positions and directions. Its spring tension system offers more springs than a traditional Reformer, and newer models house the springs in the center of the machine for quick-release transitions between moves. The result is a machine that challenges both large and small stabilizing muscles simultaneously through constant tension.

A typical 40- to 50-minute Lagree session on the Megaformer can burn between 300 and 600 calories, depending on your body weight, fitness level, and effort. A traditional Pilates class generally burns around 200 to 300 calories per hour. Lagree also triggers excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), often called the afterburn effect, meaning your metabolism stays elevated for hours after class and you continue burning calories well after your session ends.

For fat loss and body composition changes, the Lagree Method has a clear advantage. Its high-intensity, low-impact design engages more muscle groups simultaneously and sustains an elevated heart rate throughout the session, making it a strength-and-cardio hybrid. The constant tension and minimal rest between exercises maximize calorie burn during class, and the afterburn effect keeps your metabolism elevated afterward. Many Fit Buddha members see visible changes in muscle tone and definition within their first month of consistent practice.

The Lagree Method is low-impact and safe for joints, the spine, and connective tissues, making it an excellent option for many people with joint concerns. However, Lagree does use resistance and sustained holds that are more demanding than traditional Pilates. If you are recovering from an acute injury or have an unstable joint condition, we recommend consulting your physician or physical therapist first. Private one-on-one training sessions at Fit Buddha are also a great way to start, as your instructor can tailor every movement to your body's needs.

With consistent practice of 2 to 4 sessions per week, most members experience increased muscle tone and definition, improved core strength, greater flexibility and balance, enhanced cardiovascular endurance, and a noticeable boost in energy and mental clarity. The Lagree Method targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, which build lean, toned muscle without bulking. Many of our long-term members describe the experience as a total mind-body-spirit transformation, not just a physical workout.

We recommend two to four Lagree sessions per week for optimal results, with each class lasting 40 to 50 minutes. Because the method works muscles to their failure point, allowing at least one rest day between sessions helps your body recover and rebuild. At Fit Buddha, we offer classes seven days a week at both our Santa Barbara and Ventura studios, so it is easy to build a schedule that works for you.

We have been voted Best Pilates Studio by the Santa Barbara Independent 10 times, which is an incredible honor. The award category uses the term Pilates broadly, as it is the most recognized name in the reformer-style fitness space. While our method is the Lagree Method on the Megaformer, not traditional Pilates, the recognition reflects the quality of our instructors, the results our members achieve, and the welcoming community we have built over the years at Fit Buddha.

Beginners are absolutely welcome to start with Lagree. You do not need a Pilates background or any prior experience. The Megaformer's adjustable resistance allows every exercise to be scaled to your current fitness level. At Fit Buddha, our instructors are known for their attentive, encouraging coaching style. They will walk you through the fundamentals during your first class and continue to guide your progression. We also offer a special introductory rate of two classes for just twenty dollars, so you can experience it before committing.

The Lagree Method has been named the number one workout in the United States by ClassPass, and there are now more than 500 Lagree studio locations worldwide with over 150 patents on the equipment and methodology. Our Ventura studio is listed on ClassPass, making it easy for visitors to book a class and experience the Fit Buddha difference firsthand.

Wear form-fitting, moisture-wicking workout clothing. Avoid loose or baggy clothes, as they can get caught on the Megaformer. Grip socks are required for safety and hygiene on the machine. Bring a water bottle and a small towel. Arrive ten to fifteen minutes early for your first class so a team member can orient you to the Megaformer and answer any questions before class begins.

Fit Buddha has two locations on California's Central Coast. Our Santa Barbara studio is in the heart of downtown, inside Sevilla Square, near Yoga Soup and DeAngelos, with free parking for the first 75 minutes. 

Our Ventura studio is at 424 East Main Street in Downtown Ventura, with free parking available on North and South Oak Street, South California Street, and East Santa Clara Street. Both studios offer Lagree Method Megaformer classes.

Yes. In addition to our signature Lagree Megaformer classes, Fit Buddha offers indoor cycling at our Ventura studio, private one-on-one training sessions, an infrared sauna at our Santa Barbara location, the Ceragem massage bed with jade rollers and infrared heat at our Ventura location, and nutritional guidance and wellness programs. Our holistic approach supports the next evolution of your body, mind, and spirit.

No memberships can be transferred and NO refunds will be issued for classes that are not used. We understand that life happens, but we can’t refund classes that were purchased and not used. In addition, FREE classes that were acquired through childcare or internships cannot be used by another client or friend.