Less impact, more effect

First, the Pilates Reformer. Its name comes from its goal: to reform the body by correcting posture and strengthening stabilizing muscles. This mobile bench with resistance springs, straps, and a foot bar was invented by Joseph Pilates even before its floor version. Initially intended for the rehabilitation of New York dancers in the 1920s, it now appeals to fit women in Marseille. This complete sport improves mobility, flexibility, strength, and shapes the silhouette. To compete with—or complement—this machine-based discipline, a new floor-based practice is entering the hearts of Pilates lovers: Pilates Barre. If you own a Pilates studio, there's no question of offering the mat (floor) version without adding a few wooden bars attached to the wall to mimic the basic movements of classical dancers. They again, the embodiments of grace and precision. Here too, we pay attention to our posture, but like the Reformer, we spend more time standing than lying down. In both cases, we swap the leotard and painful ballet flats for Alo sports leggings, Ganni sports bras, and non-slip socks flocked with the name of our favorite gym. Finally, to round off this tour of new disciplines to try without further delay: the Lagree method. Make no mistake: if the machine looks like the Reformer, the discipline is nothing like it. A true muscular torture (in all fairness), it is made for those who think they have tried everything. Created by Sébastien Lagree, a French trainer based in California, the Lagree method appeared in the 2000s. This method is also an evolution of Pilates, enriched with muscle strengthening, cardio, balance, and core exercises, performed with decisive slowness on patented machines. The idea behind all these disciplines? Get an intense, fast, and effective workout that deeply sculpts your body without damaging your joints. So, as they say, choose your remedy.

The best clubs to practice in

With a breathtaking view of all of Marseille, you can enjoy heights, Pilates mat and Reformer classes, as well as some very beautiful photos. Tonic Pilates – 203 rue Breteuil, Marseille 6^e

Opened on March 27th, it's the newest addition to the group, but also the most promising if your heart and glutes have chosen Pilates Barre as their only ally. Paradisio Barre Club – 84 rue Grignan Marseille 6^e

All-in-one: find Pilates mat, Reformer, Barre & yoga classes, as well as fun and creative events, all in one place. Studio 24 – 240 rue Paradis, Marseille 6^e

The first Marseille studio to offer fans of very intense sensations an intimate place to practice the Lagree method. Infinity Core – 2 rue des Vignerons, Marseille 6^e