Melanie Guluk: Founder of Studio Lagree Germany

After our mind and core-bending class at Studio Lagree in Munich we caught up with founder Melanie Guluk to find out about the fitness method that alters your mind, body and soul…  

USC: Hi Melanie! What’s your background with sports?

Actually I never worked in the sports industry. I did a Masters in finance and real estate which is where I met my husband. He’s Canadian so I moved to Toronto, but after a couple of years in finance I was bored and looking to find something new that interested me.

I found the Lagree method as a client first. I worked out in a studio in Toronto and I loved it. The workout was amazing; I saw changes in my body right away. So after a while I did teacher training there.

Then I visited my parents in Germany and I realised it doesn’t exist here, so I decided to bring it over. I spoke to my husband about it and he said “Sure! Let’s try it.” So 2 years ago we packed our bags, took our dog and moved to Munich. We opened the studio on January 9th 2017. Now we’re the first and only Studio Lagree in Germany.  

How was the transition from working in finance to owning your own sports studio?

I’ve been interested in sports my entire life. That’s always been my passion – sports, health, fitness and nutrition. So I just decided to make it my job.  

Can you explain what Studio Lagree is? What is the method?

Studio Lagree teaches the Lagree fitness method, and this is an innovative full-body workout. It combines all the elements of fitness – muscle endurance, flexibility, cardio, balance, resistance. It’s an extremely effective combination and a unique workout.  

What do you love about it?

When I started I thought I was pretty fit, but then I did the workout and was shaking and felt like I’d never done a workout in my entire life! It was so challenging.

I saw results very quickly – after a couple of weeks my muscles were longer and I was leaner and more toned. It was amazing.  

We didn’t know your muscles could get longer…

They do! I just looked different – I could see it in the mirror! I also had back issues that disappeared and after that I was hooked.

The workout is also a lot of fun. Every class is different and all the trainers have a unique style. And because the classes are held in boutique fitness studios there’s a great community behind it.  

The class is very low-impact. Do you get many older people coming?

I get people from all stages of life. It doesn’t put any strain on your joints so I have a senior class called Silver Surfers. I also have people who come here after pregnancy who want to go back to their pre-baby body.

It’s also great if you’ve never done sports before or for people with injuries. It’s for everyone – no matter how old or how fit you are.  

Do you teach classes as well as running the studio?

Yes I do everything. I run it, I teach classes, I train teachers. I do it all.  

Have you had any moments since you opened that have made you proud?

I always feel really proud when people say the workout has changed their bodies and made them happier. I have one client who has lost a lot of weight with us over a year. It’s so rewarding to see that and to get positive feedback.  

Do you have one piece of health advice to share with USC members?

Be consistent. Don’t just come for a week and then don’t come for a whole month. It doesn’t have to be Lagree fitness, it could be running or cycling. But be consistent with your workouts and you’ll always see results.  

Do you miss working in finance and real estate?

Since I opened Studio Lagree I’ve been able to work with people and help them improve their day to day life. This is much more rewarding than sitting at a computer crunching numbers – so no, I don’t miss it. Not at all.  

The Studio Lagree method is unique to Munich, however we have many pilates partners across Germany and France that will work your core.

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