It all begins and ends on a machine. One that might or might not raise a few brows given that it looks deceptively similar to what most know as the reformer machine in a Pilates class. Well, despite what you might know of the former, the cult famous Lagree workout is certainly different. Founded by fitness professional Sebastien Lagree, the famed method is founded on the five key components of one’s physicality: endurance, cardiovascular fitness, body composition, flexibility and strength.
First established in Hong Kong and now arriving here as Singapore’s first Lagree-certified studio, H-Kore aims to be that jumping-off point for both beginners and fans of Lagree who have had a taste of the intensive method. Its co-founder Ashley Yeo belongs in the latter; having tried it out whilst studying abroad in the UK years ago and eager to bring this unique, patented workout back to her home ground. “I think the main difference between Lagree and Pilates is its lack of reps. In a Lagree class, we don’t count reps at all. This is more of a strength, time-under-tension workout. Your muscles are always engaged as we don’t give you any rest between the sets. We always want you to be working a muscle,” explains Yeo.
The lowdown: There’s good reason to why the workout is so lauded. There’s a methodical approach to every instruction being given out. Little, micro movements are executed throughout a 45-minute workout here at H-Kore Singapore and each targeted to engage muscles from the neck all the way down to your calves. Whilst the machine might feel too big to conquer for anyone new to it, the numbering system that labels each key part of where your hands, knees and feet should go is a great visual guide if you’re ever feeling lost.
Vogue’s review: The start of the class already had me bent over in a table-top position, with the main focus on my core work. Guided by my lovely instructor Cathy, we executed a series of movements that had us lifting the carriage up in various positions via a slow tempo. Doing so requires control and restraint with the machine, which further engages the muscles. I learnt later that Lagree trains slow-twitch muscle fibers, which can work for a long time without feeling fatigued.
As someone that’s familiar with Pilates and new to Lagree, the workout did prove to be a good challenge. Some movements were easier to execute than others that required optimal stability and core strength—like going down into a lunge with one leg manoeuvring a heavy carriage. For aid, there are stability poles next to the machines to hold onto. At the halfway mark, I was sweating and tired; yet curious and anticipating the exercises that I’ve never attempted before.
What it’s good for: In this high-intensity and low-impact class, one can tone and build strength and muscles in no time with the right consistency. And if you shake it off and just let yourself be on this beast of a machine, that’s when the fun part comes in.
Book a class at H-Kore here.
