As a self-confessed Pilates princess, I’ve been glued to the hype around Aldi’s latest viral fitness launch and if you’re into Pilates (or even just TikTok scrolling), you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.
Yep, Aldi has dropped its very own Reformer Pilates Machine and fitness fans are losing their minds. With celebrities like Harry Styles, Hailey Bieber and even Ed Sheeran all swearing by reformer sessions, it’s no surprise the workout has exploded in popularity. But with classes costing £20+ a pop and at-home reformers typically setting you back over a grand, it’s always felt a bit… out of reach.
Until now.
The Middle Aisle Strikes Again
Leave it to Aldi to shake things up. This week, they became the first UK supermarket to launch a budget friendly at-home reformer machine, priced at £149.99.
Yes, you read that right. The Aldi Specialbuy Reformer Machine comes in at a whopping 92% less than the leading at-home model (which retails at £1,899.99 😳). Naturally, the internet lost it.
So, what’s the catch? Well… getting your hands on one was a workout in itself.
The Hunger Games, But Make It Pilates
Due to huge demand, Aldi operated a ticket system for the reformer in most stores. But that didn’t stop a few stores from sneakily releasing them a day early. Blink and you’d have missed it – they were flying off the shelves faster than you can say “core engagement”. Now? Loads are already popping up on eBay at double the price. We just knew!
If you were lucky enough to bag one, here’s what you’ll get for your money:
Aldi Reformer Pilates Machine – What’s Included?
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Adjustable height settings
- Smooth gliding exercise deck
- 5 resistance bands included
- Compact folding design for storage
- Wheels for easy moving
Basically, everything you need to take your at-home Pilates game to the next level.
Aldi also released a matching range of accessories to complete the set-up – Pilates rings, balls, and pads starting from just £5.99. These extras are a fab little add-on for both mat and machine workouts.
But Is It Actually Worth It?
For £149.99, you’re never going to get the Rolls Royce of reformers. But if you’re curious about the practice, want to keep up your strength and flexibility at home, or just want to try the reformer lifestyle without blowing your budget – it’s not a bad option.
It folds away neatly and it’s accessible for beginners with adjustable settings. If you’ve never tried reformer Pilates before, this could be the perfect entry point. That said, if you’ve never used a reformer before and have no clue what you’re doing, please go carefully. These machines involve resistance and coordination and used incorrectly, they can be a recipe for disaster. I’ve seen a few clips on socials of people faceplanting mid-workout and honestly, it’s not worth the risk.
It’s always a good idea to take a few proper reformer classes first to learn the basics before you start sliding around solo. Remember: when you pay for a class, you’re not just paying to use the machine. You’re paying for the instructor, their expertise, the carefully designed sequences, the atmosphere of the studio and of course, the community of others around you. That human element of being guided, corrected and encouraged in person is invaluable and honestly, part of the magic.
So, if you’re already a mat Pilates lover or just reformer-curious, this could be a fun way to mix up your home workouts. And if you managed to grab one – please tell me everything!
