This Lagree Plus review is part of Class Action, FLEETSTREET’s workout review series. We get sweaty to give you the low-down on what the workouts are really like.
The Studio: Lagree Plus
Walking down Adelaide, I think to myself that the wellness scene in Toronto has evolved. Impact Kitchen serves up nutritious eats that are gluten-, sugar- and seed oil-free, Othership hosts hot and cold classes, and Nutbar caters to cravings for vegans. Just east of this stretch, you’ll find the newly opened Lagree Plus.
Now, I’m no stranger to Lagree workouts. Back in 2015, when I first moved to Toronto, Studio Lagree on King Street was one of my go-to workout spots. When that studio filled up, I’d even trek all the way to its Queen Street East location for classes.
Stepping into the new Lagree Plus, located at 410 Adelaide Street West, things feel instantly different for me. The space is smaller than its King Street location, but the vibe is more elevated. The aesthetics are on point – a stylish blend of beige, burgundy accent walls and the feel of wabi-sabi decor. Curved entryways draped with thick burgundy curtains, olive trees and neon touches set the relaxed/high-energy tone. The studio’s upbeat music contrasts its dim lights. There’s even a coffee bar serving unique drinks like strawberry matcha. It’s a design-forward space, setting itself apart from the dark Megaformer studios I’m used to in Toronto.
What is a Megaformer? It’s like a Pilates reformer but on steroids. It comes with varying tensions, letting you customize your workout to match your fitness level and goals. Plus, unlike a regular reformer, the Megaformer offers multiple handle positions, challenging or even supporting your body in exciting new ways. More on that below.
Pilates reformer versus Pilates mat: Which is better for at-home workouts?
The Workouts: Lagree Plus
Lagree Plus offers three different classes:
- Full Body: A 50-minute full-body Megaformer workout designed for strength and endurance.
- Ass & Abs: A core and glute targeted 50-minute class.
- Advanced Full Body: A 50-minute challenging workout with heavier springs, slower counts and more dynamic moves.
Lagree Plus workouts are the same as the classic Megaformer session I know and love from other studios. The Lagree method, coined by Sebastian Lagree, utilizes the Megaformer, a machine he patented in 2006. Generally, Lagree method challenges the muscles with slow, controlled movements to help build strength and endurance. While some may think it’s like Pilates, Lagree challenges the body with balance and endurance. It’s a workout that trains your muscles while keeping your heart pumping.
When heading into any of these three classes, be sure to bring: Grip socks and water, of course.
Lagree Micro Review: Don’t expect an at-home Pilates workout.
We Tried It: Full Body
I tried the Full Body class to focus on strength and endurance. Like most Lagree workouts, I expect to feel the burn in this 50-minute class. I was surprised by the first few minutes, though. Instead of jumping straight into an intense ab series, it began with a guided meditation that eased me into my workout. Then, the class warmed up with stretches like happy baby – something I never experienced in a Lagree class before. It felt fantastic to transition smoothly into the workout rather than plunging directly into that immediate muscle shake.
Once it got rolling, the intensity ramped up into a high-energy workout that really got my heart pumping. Now, while I say “high intensity,” note that these workouts are also relatively slow-paced. I’m not talking about jumping jacks or burpees (while classes do include a version of burpees on the Megaformer, there’s no “jumping” involved).
The instructor focused on repetitive movements, like lunges, kneeling inner thigh, and wheelbarrows, using the varying strengths of springs throughout the class, depending on the exercise. The instructor will make call-outs to vary the tension for different levels. For example, for a beginner, the spring-level suggestion may be two to three yellow springs, which is much easier than the single red spring. Also, depending on the body parts we were working on, the spring amount would be higher (think glutes and legs for a heavier spring option and upper body and abs for a lighter spring option).
Here’s how it works: The amount of extension can change how much weight the spring pulls. The spring tension for the yellow spring ranges from four to 14 pounds, and the red spring ranges from 28 to 95 pounds at full extension. This is why Lagree can be as slow and low impact as you want it to be or it can be a much more heavier lift if you want it to be. You can adjust and add spring weights that feel good for your body.
FLEETSTREET TIP: when changing your springs, make sure to bring “the carriage,” which is basically the body of the reformer back to the starting position to pull the springs off. If you don’t, the springs slam back into their slots, which can potentially damage them.
As the class continued, we dove into abs, starting with kneeling crunches that really ignited my core. Then we moved onto lunges, and then we shifted into kneeling inner-thigh work, followed by upper-body exercises. I was “serving the platter” (raising your arms forward, holding the straps) and newspaper movements (crossing the straps and pulling arms wide as if you’re reading a paper).
I felt the intensity, and I had to take breaks to catch my breath and – honestly – to give my muscles a second to avoid cramping. The exercise transitions were quick, but my instructor encouraged us to pause whenever we needed to.
The class ended with a few stretches, like feet in straps and circling our legs clockwise and counterclockwise, which I genuinely appreciated after pushing through those kneeling inner thigh moves. I could have sworn we did about 100 reps on each side. I felt sore even before I left the studio.
The combination of physical intensity and mindful exercises, along with the dim lights and loud music, made this class a standout experience in Toronto’s fitness studio scape. Plus, finishing a class and grabbing a matcha and a healthy snack on my way out is a definite bonus.
I did a two-week Pilates challenge – and here’s how it changed my body.
The Verdict
If anyone asks me what my favourite class in Toronto is, my answer is always a Lagree workout. I like challenges, but I also really value good music and atmosphere. I’ve taken other reformer Pilates classes and, for me, they just don’t give me the same burn. Nothing like too much overhead lighting and low music you can barely hear to ruin a workout. #amIright
In my opinion, Lagree workouts are good for beginners and those more advanced, as it truly never gets easier.
For beginners, the instructor will likely ask at the beginning of the class if there are any new people. Then they take about two to three minutes to show the attendees how to use the machine properly and will always make adjustments or recommendations throughout the class. They will also ask if anyone has any injuries or anything they should be aware so they can make adjustments for you specifically. If anything feels intimidating or daunting, just take a breather and reach for your water; it’s your workout, after all.
So, if you’re looking for a change of pace from your regular workouts or just want a 50-minute mental break from the hustle of the city, Lagree Plus might be just what you need. The Lagree method itself is as challenging and rewarding as ever, but at Lagree Plus, the atmosphere adds that extra edge.
Regardless of your experience, that post-class soreness is no joke – which was a sign for me that this is a solid workout.
Lagree Plus, located at 420 Adelaide St W, drop-in are available for $40, packages range from $108 (3 classes) to $300 (10 classes), and monthly memberships are available for $490 (30 classes).