Celebrities are trying out a new fitness activity called Lagree.
A fitness method developed by Sebastien Lagree in Burbank, California, U.S.A., Lagree is a "high-intensity, low-impact multifaceted method" that delivers "exceptional results in a remarkable amount of time..."
The workout is 45 minutes long and has a "unique combination" of strength, cardio, endurance, core, balance, and flexibility.
Why is it 45 minutes long?
Harold Lee, owner of Manila-based Lagree studio, Ultra Lagree, says, "If we do it one hour, it's too strenuous.
"Forty-five minutes is, I think, enough, kasi so far, wala pa ako nakita na 45 minutes straight hindi nag-rest o hindi nag-stop. It will save your time din."
Harold also explains what a "high intensity, low impact" workout is.
He says, "Low impact, meaning safe siya sa knees 'tsaka sa back. Nothing to worry if you have bad back or bad knees.
"Lagree method can help you improve, kasi it will strengthen your core and your legs.
"High intensity kasi it's more of a workout than a recovery. It's gonna fatigue your muscles.
"It's time under tension. Slow movements kaya tumataas iyong intensity.
"Imagine, an exercise 45 minutes, one set lang siya. That means kailangan naka-engage ang core mo the whole time if you can."
Beginnings of Lagree
During the opening of Ultra Lagree studio at Estancia Mall, Pasig City, in September 2019, Harold briefly told PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) how Sebastien Lagree developed this fitness method.
Sebastien initially flew to Los Angeles to follow the steps of professional bodybuilder-turned-Hollywood action star Arnold Schwarzenegger, but he became a physical trainer instead.
Sebastien then learned Pilates, which is a low impact, low intensity workout.
This gave him the idea of developing a workout that is low impact, but high intensity; thus, the concept of Lagree was born.
"It first became Pilates Plus," Harold said.
"Maraming names. Until finally, I guess ten years or less, na-copyright na niya na Lagree method talaga iyong naimbento."
Sebastien also invented the workout equipment called "Megaformer."
BRINGING LAGREE TO MANILA
It was Harold's wife Ela who thought of introducing Lagree to fitness enthusiasts in Manila.
Harold recalled, "My wife kasi before, she does Pilates until sabi niya, 'Gusto ko mag-try ng iba.'
"Then we went to the States last year. She tried ito sa L.A."
Harold and Ela then got in contact with Sebastien, who called them back and collaborated with them.
Afterwards, Harold offered his good friend and celebrity host Will Devaughn a spot in the team as a trainer.
Will agreed and trained under Sebastien to become a certified Lagree instructor.
Will, a co-founder of Ultra Lagree along with Harold and Ela, is called "master trainer."