First impressions: Is the €40 Pilates reformer set from Mr Price worth trying?

It sold out in two days when it was last released and it's back in stock now — here are our impressions of the budget-friendly Pilates set from Mr Price

Mon, 24 Nov, 2025 - 14:06

Denise O’Donoghue

Pilates is one of the most popular workouts at the moment, with reformer classes in particular selling out, despite an often high fee attached.

Those looking to feel the burn in their muscles, but not their pockets, are turning to at-home options. Pilates can be done on a mat, similar to yoga, but at-home machines are becoming more common.

Aldi released a €200 version in its middle aisle earlier this year, with the same model returning to stores this Sunday at a slightly cheaper price. However, even more budget-friendly is Mr Price’s €39.99 reformer set, which is available once more after selling out in just two days over the summer.

Described as “a sleek, portable, and easy-to-use alternative to bulky gym equipment”, the Myga Pilates Reformer Set promises to deliver a complete full-body training experience.

I received a set to trial, here are my first impressions:

Unboxing

The reformer set in its box, along with other fitness items from the Mr Price range

The reformer set was delivered to my door and, while the box was large, it was very easy to lift — a far cry from the 35kg Aldi reformer I previously dragged into the house.

Upon opening the box, there was another box with the pink set inside in a clear plastic bag with resistance bands, bar handles, foot loops, and some basic instructions for assembly which were easy enough to follow. It also shows photos of workouts that can be done on the set, from mountain climbers to lunges, in case you need inspiration.

There is also a digital counter to time your workouts, which is a very useful feature. It slots into the centre of the set, right below where your face would be during a plank — ideal for counting down your set without losing your form.

In use

It is very, very lightweight, so my impression is that it is perfect for space-saving and for light workouts but it doesn’t compare to a typical reformer machine for an intense workout. I found the ‘glide’ of the handles wasn’t completely smooth. However, once I grew accustomed to it, this didn’t bother me too much. Don't forget to pop a fitness mat underneath it to prevent sliding, especially on wooden or tiled floors.

It is so easy to store away: it folds in two and is compact enough to hide away when not in use. It could also be popped into the car or even a very big tote bag for workouts on the go, so you could bring it along to your AirBnb for a mini-Pilates retreat.

Verdict

It may not be ideal for Pilates enthusiasts, but for anyone hoping to get a little more active on a budget or looking for some new year fitness motivation in January, Mr Price’s Pilates set could be just the thing to get you moving.

For anyone hoping to elevate their at-home Pilates kit in other ways, there are other pocket-friendly things in the range also worth checking out. A set that includes a Pilates ring and ball is only €12.99, while yoga straps, socks, and bricks can also be picked up for under €5 each.