Although Pilates may be having its moment, Lagree holds a special place in the hearts of fitness fanatics. Lagree is a high-intensity, low-impact workout that combines strength training with endurance, offering an upbeat alternative to Pilates’ low-intensity, flexibility-building focus. Fuelled by their love for fitness and desire to pursue their passions, Emirati sisters Salama and Aysha Alghefli founded Form Studio, Abu Dhabi’s first dedicated Lagree studio. Here, the founders discuss their entrepreneurial journeys, the importance of maintaining mindfulness, and Form Studio’s one-of-a-kind activations.
What made you decide to break into the fitness space, and why with a specific focus on Lagree?
Salama: What drew me to Lagree was how intentional it felt. Every movement has meaning; it is not about speed or repetition but precision and endurance. I loved that balance between challenge and control. My sister and I wanted to create a studio that reflected that same mindset, a space where people could push their limits while staying deeply connected to their form, breath and focus.
What is the philosophy at the core of Form Studio, and how do you believe it differs from other studios in the UAE?
Salama: At the heart of Form is precision and presence. We believe in quality over quantity, which means smaller classes, stronger guidance and a focus on proper technique. Our philosophy is about mindful movement and community. People do not just come to work out; they come to feel supported, seen and inspired to improve every time they step on the machine.
Can you tell us a little bit about your own fitness journeys?
Aysha: My fitness journey has been about growth more than anything else. I started like anyone else, wanting to feel stronger, but along the way I discovered how much movement impacts the way you think and live. Fitness helped me build structure, confidence and a sense of balance in my day. It grounded me in a way few other things could.
Do you believe that fitness is connected to mental wellbeing and, if so, how?
Aysha: The connection between movement and mental wellbeing feels natural. When I move, I feel clear and in control. Training helps me release stress, think better and stay balanced. It keeps my mind steady and reminds me that showing up for my body is also a way of taking care of my mind.
Form Studio has hosted a number of interesting activations across the UAE, including at Dubai’s Theatre of Digital Arts and the Abu Dhabi Aquarium. If you could host a class at any location in the world, where would it be and why?
Salama: We’re already hosting the biggest activation right here in our beautiful capital — on the most iconic St. Regis Abu Dhabi helipad, overlooking the city’s breathtaking skyline and turquoise waters. It’s truly the most spectacular setting imaginable, and we couldn’t think of a more powerful place to celebrate movement, community and our Abu Dhabi roots.
Wellness has become more mainstream over the years, with younger generations prioritising their health and fitness. Why do you think this is, and how do you hope to continue to see the fitness space grow in the future?
Aysha: There has been a real cultural shift toward prioritising wellbeing. People want to live longer, feel better and create structure in their lives. I hope the fitness space continues to mature, with more focus on building communities, improving standards and supporting instructors who truly care about their craft.
Aside from Lagree, what is your favourite class to teach or attend, and what is the class you find the most challenging?
Salama: Yoga is my go-to outside of Lagree. It helps me reset mentally and stretch everything out after teaching so many classes. The hardest for me are always the ones that look simple, like the slower Lagree holds that test your patience and control.
What advice would you give to other female Emirati entrepreneurs that are looking to pursue their passions?
Salama: Pursue what excites you and do it with conviction. There will always be obstacles, but if you lead with passion and intention, you will find your way.
Salama, you are currently working towards becoming the first Emirati Master Trainer. What made you decide to pursue this path?
Salama: Becoming a Master Trainer feels like a natural next step in my Lagree journey. I have taught more than a thousand classes since opening Form and have seen firsthand how powerful this method is. I want to contribute to its growth in the region, mentor future instructors and help raise the standard of Lagree training in the UAE.
Aysha, you use fitness as a method of reconnection. How have you ensured Form Studios marries mindfulness with fitness?
Aysha: We focus on how people move, not just how much they move. Every class blends strength, control, and breath, so clients leave feeling grounded, clear, and reconnected. That’s the essence of Form: mindful intensity rooted in purpose. Form Studio, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Book now
