Ceo Corner: Lisa Hirsch-solomon On The Studio (mdr), Growth Of Lagree

Hirsch-Solomon’s Lagree chain has gained popularity in Los Angeles as demand grows for high-intensity, low-impact workouts

Lisa Hirsch-Solomon founded The Studio (MDR) in 2011, driven by a passion for wellness. Starting with a single location, Hirsch-Solomon now has five studios, with a sixth on the way.

Her studio is bringing the Lagree Method, a high-intensity, low-impact workout performed on the Megaformer, to more consumers in the greater Los Angeles area. The method blends strength training, muscular endurance, core stabilization, balance and flexibility, using slow, controlled movements and continuous muscle tension.

Hirsch-Solomon transitioned from the music industry to fitness entrepreneurship, which has shaped her approach to building The Studio (MDR). The space is known for its signature hot pink ceilings and neon encouragement: “Look It* Feel It* Live It!”

Hirsch-Solomon sat down with Athletech News to discuss her unconventional path to boutique fitness success, why Lagree resonates deeply in today’s fitness landscape and her vision for scaling The Studio (MDR).

The following conversation has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Athletech News: What originally drew you to Lagree and inspired you to open The Studio (MDR)?

Lisa Hirsch-Solomon: Throughout my adult life, fitness has been my way of managing stress. During the 2008 recession, I noticed people were still investing in feeling good through fitness, food and beauty. That realization, combined with my love for exercise, sparked a desire to do something meaningful with my career.

In 2009, I discovered the Lagree Method. It was a total “aha” moment! The workout transformed my body in ways no other method ever had. I wanted to create a space where people didn’t just feel seen but genuinely cared for – a place where every client could feel strong, supported, and welcome. We opened our first studio on January 3, 2011, with those goals in mind, and our mission remains the same to this day.

ATN: Your background isn’t typical for a fitness founder. Can you walk us through your journey to launching The Studio (MDR)?

LH-S: I definitely did not take a traditional path. I initially thought I’d go into medicine because I’ve always been fascinated by how the human body works. After college, I ended up in the music industry where I spent 15 years in branding, marketing and talent development. While energizing, I ultimately realized I wanted to build something aligning with my values.

When I returned to LA, I began reevaluating my career, noticing people’s commitment to wellness, even during the recession. Movement became my therapy, and I saw an opportunity to blend wellness, community, branding and human connection.

In 2011, I opened The Studio (MDR). I had no fitness certification or business degree at first, but I had vision, work ethic and a deep belief that authenticity and service would draw people in. Today, we’re five studios strong with a sixth coming soon.

ATN: How do you explain the difference between Lagree and Pilates, and why is Lagree resonating strongly now?

LH-S: I describe Lagree as Pilates’ edgier, more intense cousin. Both emphasize core strength and controlled movements, but Lagree utilizes the Megaformer, adding resistance, instability and continuous tension. It’s about building strength, endurance and mental focus without high impact on joints.

Lagree is special because it meets people where they are but challenges them to improve continuously. In a noisy, fast-paced world, Lagree forces you to slow down, breathe and remain present. I believe that’s why people keep returning – it’s 45 minutes dedicated to yourself, leaving you feeling stronger physically and emotionally.

ATN: As The Studio (MDR) expands, what’s your vision for growth over the next five years?

LH-S: Being self-funded, I’ve always prioritized intentional, sustainable growth, making sure each new location aligns with our brand and community. We’re currently opening our sixth studio and, over the next five years, we’ll keep expanding thoughtfully. That means finding the right spaces, building strong teams and fostering supportive environments for both clients and employees. If we stay true to that, the rest will follow.

ATN: How has your approach to studio design and member experience evolved post-COVID?

LH-S: We’ve always prioritized client experience – it’s foundational. Post-COVID, boutique fitness has shifted toward personalization and community, but those have always been core for us. The challenge now is scaling without losing our magic.

We focus on details, from signature design elements like hot pink ceilings and welcoming neon signs to greeting each client personally and instructors knowing everyone’s names. Even today, I’ll personally text clients who leave class early to check in. These touches create a sense of belonging and genuine care – something we remain committed to replicating as we grow.

ATN: What recent investments have you made to meet consumer expectations?

LH-S: Our biggest investment is our people—our instructors are crucial. We have an incredible Development Team, including two Lagree Master Trainers, who train and mentor our instructors continuously. Maintaining top-condition Megaformers and thoughtful studio upgrades are also key.

On the tech side, we improve backend systems, making scheduling, check-ins and client communications smooth and personalized. Recovery tools are on our radar, but our primary focus remains making every touchpoint elevated, personal and connected.

ATN: Have you seen shifts in the types of clients coming to the studio?

LH-S: We’ve always attracted diverse clients of different ages, fitness levels and backgrounds, including professional athletes, fitness enthusiasts and people recovering from health challenges. Recently, we’ve definitely seen more men attending. Lagree’s effectiveness, challenge and results appeal broadly, and it’s exciting to see this balance grow.

ATN: What do you see next for boutique fitness, especially with strength and recovery gaining traction?

LH-S: Group fitness isn’t going anywhere – COVID reinforced that people crave community and collective energy. However, I predict increased interest in small-group training, offering structure, accountability and deeper connections.

Regarding recovery, cold plunges are gaining attention. People now understand training hard is only part of the equation – recovery is essential. Adopting a “train hard, recover smart” mindset is becoming integral to sustainable wellness lifestyles.

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