Aldi’s reformer Pilates machine caused a huge buzz among fitness fans last week. However, many shoppers have started returning the product after encountering problems.
The budget supermarket released the reformer at a very low price of £149.99. This is nearly £1,750 cheaper than the high-end Original Fold Reformer, which costs £1,899.99. The Aldi machine copies the style of equipment used in elite Pilates classes, popular with celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Margot Robbie, and Hailey Bieber. These classes often cost more than £35 per session.
The launch led to chaotic scenes in stores across the UK. Customers queued around corners, and some stores handed out tickets to control the crowd. Many shoppers arrived early to secure one of the sought-after machines.
But the excitement did not last. Soon, buyers and TikTok users reported issues. The most common problem was the rubber wheels snapping or falling off. This made the reformer unusable. Several customers shared videos showing their returns and voiced frustration over the recurring issue.
One viral video showed a shopper returning her reformer. She said, “The rubber kept coming off the wheels. Back to the mat I go.” Many viewers confirmed they had similar problems. Several machines were being returned for the same faults. One customer said she felt conflicted about returning hers because the machine was heavy and hard to take apart.
Aimee Victoria Long, a London-based personal trainer who works with celebrities and teaches Pilates, barre, and functional training, spoke about the reformer’s strengths and weaknesses. She praised Aldi for making reformer Pilates affordable and accessible, especially for beginners or people on a budget. However, she warned the machine is not as durable or smooth as premium models.
“Some users say the reformer feels wobbly during intense workouts,” Aimee said. “The resistance bands don’t offer the same smooth tension as traditional springs. Also, the bands are probably not as strong as springs.” She added that taller people over 5’9” might find the reformer uncomfortable or limited in movement, despite claims it fits users up to 6’3”.
Aldi responded to the complaints by stating that the reformer is independently tested to meet safety standards. The company said it is designed to provide a reliable home workout option. Aldi also reminded customers that they can return the product for a full refund if they are not satisfied.
Meanwhile, the high demand led to many resellers listing Aldi’s reformers on platforms like eBay and Vinted. Some sellers charged more than twice Aldi’s price, angering fitness fans who missed out on the bargain. One shopper called out these resellers on X (formerly Twitter), calling them “scum” for taking advantage of people trying to exercise at home.
Videos from the launch day showed chaotic scenes inside Aldi stores. Customers shouted and scrambled to grab the limited stock. Some sat on machines to save their place in line. Arguments broke out over queuing and fairness.
An Aldi spokesperson acknowledged the frustration of customers who could not buy the reformer. They said demand was “exceptionally high” and far beyond what was expected.
