Shoppers return Aldi's viral reformer Pilates machine after 'wheels fall off'
Aldi's budget reformer Pilates machine has been plagued by issues, with customers complaining about faulty rubber wheels - but the supermarket has reassured buyers the product is safe
Aldi's reformer Pilates machine sparked a frenzy among fitness enthusiasts last week, but already they're being returned by disappointed shoppers.
The budget supermarket launched its reformer at just £149.99 — nearly £1,750 less than the high-end Original Fold Reformer, priced at £1,899.99. The bargain device mimics the equipment used in elite Pilates classes favoured by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Margot Robbie, and Hailey Bieber, where sessions can cost upwards of £35.
The launch triggered chaotic scenes across the UK, with customers queuing around corners and some stores even issuing tickets to manage the demand. Shoppers eagerly lined up early at Aldi locations hoping to snap up the coveted workout machine.
But the initial excitement quickly soured as TikTok users and other buyers began reporting issues with their reformers. The most common complaint involved the rubber wheels snapping or detaching entirely, making the equipment unusable. Some customers posted videos documenting their returns, sharing stories of frustration as the rubber repeatedly fell off during use.
One viral clip features a shopper filming herself returning the reformer, explaining, 'The rubber kept coming off the wheels. Back to the mat I go.' Comments flooded in with others confirming the problem, with many reporting that numerous machines were being returned for similar faults. One buyer admitted feeling conflicted about returning theirs, citing the reformer's weight and difficulty dismantling it.
London-based personal trainer Aimee Victoria Long, who works with celebrities and teaches Pilates, barre, and functional training, commented on the reformer's pros and cons. She praised Aldi for making reformer Pilates more accessible at a fraction of the usual price, ideal for beginners or those on a budget. However, she cautioned that the machine lacks the durability and smooth performance of premium models.
'Users have reported the reformer can feel slightly wobbly during vigorous workouts,' Aimee explained. 'The resistance bands don't provide the same smooth tension as traditional springs, and the bands' strength likely doesn't match that of springs either.' She also noted that taller users over 5'9' might find the reformer uncomfortable or limited in range of motion, despite claims it accommodates people up to 6'3'.
Aldi addressed the concerns by emphasising that their reformer is independently tested to meet safety standards and designed to offer a reliable home workout solution. The company reiterated its commitment to quality and encouraged customers unhappy with their purchase to return it for a full refund.
Meanwhile, the high demand for Aldi's reformers fuelled a surge in reselling on platforms like eBay and Vinted. Some listings showed the machines being sold for more than double the Aldi price, sparking anger among fitness fans who missed out on the bargain. One shopper took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn resellers, calling them 'scum' for exploiting buyers looking to get fit at home.
Online videos captured the chaotic launch day scenes inside Aldi stores, where customers shouted, scrambled, and even physically struggled to claim the limited stock. Some shoppers were seen sitting on top of the machines to hold their place, while tensions boiled over with arguments about queuing and fairness.
An Aldi spokesperson acknowledged the frustration from customers unable to purchase the reformer but said demand had been 'exceptionally high,' far exceeding expectations.
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