From Pilates to LAGREE: My Fitness Journey

 

From Pilates to LAGREE: My Fitness Journey

In Miami’s Pilates studios, I’m usually the curviest woman in the class. Before I even began my journey, I made peace with the fact that, yes, I stand out—but I reminded myself that I deserve to get healthy and have every right to this workout. Many women my size feel intimidated by Pilates studios, seeing all the in-shape, confident women who may have never struggled with weight. But I focused on my journey, not theirs. That said, I do sometimes catch myself comparing my progress to others—a major mistake. I’ve learned to look within, celebrate my own wins, and keep moving forward.

My fitness journey officially began in December 2024 at FlyMiami, a Pilates studio in North Bay Village. The studio was the perfect place to start—walking distance from my home and led by the incredible instructor, Isabel. She was exactly what I needed at the time: patient, graceful, and attentive. There were even moments when she lifted my leg during exercises I couldn’t quite manage. Isabel created a space free of judgment, allowing me to focus on my form, learn the moves, and become comfortable in my body. Despite a slight language barrier, I always understood her guidance.

After completing my time at FlyMiami, I decided to explore other Pilates studios, hoping to expand my experience. This led to new connections and friendships with fellow Pilates enthusiasts, who shared their tips, favorite studios, and workouts.

Christle stood out—her dedication amazed me. She sometimes did 2–3 workouts a day at different studios! I was equal parts inspired and intimidated, but I knew I needed to get to know her for her incredible workout ethic. She also turned out to be an amazing person—always encouraging and passionate. This is exactly the type of energy you want and need around you. When you start any journey, you’re essentially alone at first, but as you show up consistently, others notice and pass along gems—just like Christle did when she introduced me to MegaLit. She also made sure to tell me, straight up, that LAGREE isn’t Pilates!

Before stepping onto the Megaformer, I had to do my homework. I wanted to understand what LAGREE was and how it differed from Pilates. LAGREE is a high-intensity, low-impact workout that combines strength, endurance, cardio, and core training—all on a specialized machine called the Megaformer. Unlike Pilates, which can sometimes allow your mind to drift during less challenging segments, LAGREE requires constant focus, controlled movements, and total body engagement. 

Stepping through the graffiti-covered MegaLit door, sprayed like a superhero emblem, I knew I was entering something special. The space was filled with calm and focus—burning sage, soft neo-soul playing in the background, and people moving on the Megaformers with intense precision. Watching the cool-downs and hearing the slight panting and deep breaths of relief, I realized that completing a LAGREE class meant pushing myself beyond anything I had ever imagined in a workout.

Meeting Sean K. Perry, I felt like I had found a unicorn. Seeing someone who looks like me thriving in their space—and realizing I hadn’t known about this before—was eye-opening. I guess you don’t know what you need until it finds you. His team’s passion, guidance, and the energy they create make MegaLit unlike any place I’ve ever experienced.

LAGREE isn’t just a workout; it’s a mental and physical challenge. Every 50-minute session is about pushing yourself safely and efficiently. I recorded myself during class, I caught moments where I had to correct my positioning with guidance from Sean K. Perry. These moments reminded me that this isn’t just a workout—it’s a training, a sculpting of the body into art. The instructors at MegaLit aren’t just instructors—they’re body artists, guiding you safely to become your best self.

The music, too, sets MegaLit apart. Neo-soul, R&B, 90s hits, and new hip-hop make the workout fun and energizing. Alongside Sean K. Perry, his wife FabC, and the rest of the team, the instructors create a unique, challenging environment that I’m proud to be a part of. The other enthusiasts I’ve met are inspiring—entrepreneurs and individuals who push themselves physically and mentally.

I’m only five classes in, but I already feel stronger, more aware, and more challenged than ever before. I’ll continue to update my journey as I reach my 15th class. Right now, I’m at a point in my life where I crave challenge, growth, and curiosity—and LAGREE has found me. I’m here for it.

I’m also excited to share that I’ll be interviewing Sean K. Perry, the owner of MegaLit Fitness, on The Balance with Andreana Jackson this Tuesday, September 30th at 1 PM, live on Miami’s Community Newspaper YouTube channel. If you can’t catch it live, you can listen to it later on Spotify or Apple Music. I’ll be asking Sean K. Perry about LAGREE, the philosophy behind MegaLit, and how to push yourself safely to reach your highest potential.