Aldi’s Pilates reformer is back at a cheaper price — here's what I thought when I used it

It's one of the most anticipated SpecialBuys in a long time — but here's what it's actually like to use Aldi's Pilates reformer machine

Denise O'Donoghue reviews Aldi's Pilates reformer

If you’re anything like me, then your social media feeds will be flooded by people trying to buy Aldi’s Pilates reformer when it goes back on sale on November 30. When it was last in the middle aisle it cost €199.99, but next weekend is will be available at the lower price of €179.99.

I’d previously watched it go viral on TikTok when it was released a few months ago in Australian Aldi stores, so I knew it was going to be a huge conversation here, where Pilates is so popular.

With that in mind, I reached out to Aldi’s PR team and was lucky enough to get one of the machines ahead of its release in shops last May to review.

Putting it together 

Boy, is this heavy. The reformer is 35kg in weight, so definitely a two-person job when lifting and moving it (at least in my case).

I spent a bit of time reading the instruction manual and some more time carefully manoeuvring it out of the cardboard box without dropping it on my toes, but, in total, I spent around an hour putting it together.

It’s fairly straightforward to build and all of the elements are neatly packaged inside the folded machine in the box. It comes with an Allen key for tightening bolts around it and that is the only tool you need to use.

First impressions 

The machine itself is really sturdy, which is surprising for something I built. It's very steady when climbing on top of for certain exercises.

It can support users weighing up to 125kg or just under 20 stone. It’s a very long piece of equipment when completed. At 5'3" I wasn’t concerned about whether I’d fit on it but guidelines are there for height: it’s suitable for people between 150 and 190cm in height (or 4 foot 11 to 6 foot 3).

There are some suggested exercises illustrated in the user manual too, so I tried a few and the machine worked really well for me. The bands offered a great glide along the machine when pulled, and you can adjust the resistance underneath the machine to suit your needs.

I tried some lunges while standing on the reformer and, as previously mentioned, I felt quite secure on it — no fear of falling off a wobbly reformer here.

For a cent under €200 (at the time) I think this is a great investment for any Pilates fan, particularly someone who is already quite confident on a reformer and has the correct form.

What the instructors say

Aldi Pilates reformer went on sale on Sunday for €199.99

While Pilates fans flocked to Aldi, many instructors shared some concerns on social media.

Some highlighted the fact that this machine uses resistance cables and does not have springs so will not offer the same experience as reformers in a studio. However, the overarching concern is that people will use them incorrectly and injure themselves.

One TikTok user who is training to be a Pilates instructor advised those new to the practice to attend some classes.

“I've just been seeing everyone buying these Aldi reformer machines which I think is amazing and people should keep moving,” Jay Reinhold said. “But guys, please, if you haven't done Pilates before or anything just get some training first. Don't go and injure yourself.”

This is advice I certainly think is worth listening to.

• Denise received a complimentary Pilates reformer in exchange for a fair and honest review
• This article was first published in May 2025 and updated in November 2025.