Resistance Chicago Lagree in Wicker Park runs the Lagree Method on the M3K+ Megaformer, a machine that looks complex from across the room and feels surprisingly approachable once an instructor takes 90 seconds to walk you through it. That walkthrough is consistent here: instructors explain the machine and each movement before asking anyone to attempt them, offer modifications for every exercise, and create a class environment where not knowing what you're doing at the start is entirely expected and accommodated. The studio earns high first-timer marks specifically because its instruction style treats newcomer orientation as part of the session, not an add-on.
With 25,781 total reviews and a 4.9-star overall rating, Resistance Chicago has built a reputation that extends well beyond the Wicker Park neighborhood. Members who describe their first visit consistently mention feeling welcomed rather than singled out, and the studio's Lagree format delivers a genuine workout regardless of experience level. Every class is modifiable to individual needs, which means the first-timer in the back row and the regular in the front are working in the same room without either feeling out of place.
"Very welcoming. Didn't feel out of place. [Instructor] explained machine and workouts easily! Will be back."
"She was amazing! My first time ever going and she was super sweet! Such a good birthday!"
"[Instructor] was a great teacher! It was my first time on a reformer and she walked me through how to use it. She gave such helpful queues for the exercises! I will definitely be back."
