A high intensity workout heralded by stars such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Anniston has been brought to UK shores through the launch of a new boutique franchise.

Studio Lagree UK owner and director Robert Lepone has overseen the expansion of the Canadian brand, resulting in the first two studios in central London and Guildford. The studios are based around The Lagree Fitness Method, the favoured workout of a number of Hollywood’s leading lights.

Lepone is investing in Studio Lagree UK – an extension of the Studio Lagree franchise started in Canada in February 2013 – and plans to open 8-10 studios in the London area over the next 2-3 years.

“The opportunity to bring the Studio Lagree brand and format to London presented itself with the recovery in the UK economy and the widely accepted boutique 'pay-as-you-train' format,” Lepone told Health Club Management.

“As the sole provider of the Lagree Method in London, we have exclusive access to the continuous research and development of Sebastien Lagree and Lagree Fitness. This will ensure we have access to cutting-edge technology and innovative fitness methods.”

Lagree Fitness classes take place on Megaformers – resistance machines specially designed by the concept’s founder, Los Angeles-based Sebastien Lagree. According to Lagree, the principles of the Lagree Method are that it works muscles to failure with very little rest and this “results in a workout that burns maximum calories in a short time, whilst also developing significant muscle tone and strength.”

The London Studio Lagree offers the 50-minute M3 Fusion class as group exercise or 1-on-1 sessions and a 40-minute M3 Fusion Express group class. The Guildford venue offers the M3 Fusion group classes and also has a separate group cycling studio within the facility.

As is the norm with boutique studios, Studio Lagree sessions are priced on a pay-as-you-train basis, with introductory packages ranging from £15 up to £30. There are also discounted corporate rates and special offers for buying sessions in packages.