What to Consider in Buying Used Gym Equipment
If you have been planning on building a home gym but your limited budget is preventing you from carrying out your plan, then it’s probably wise to start thinking about buying used fitness equipment instead. If you decide you want to fill up your home gym with new equipment, it’ll cost you money you don’t have. But there’s really no reason to be disappointed because in terms of buying used commercial gym equipment, there’s a big chance you stumble upon some that still are in very good condition.
You see, many commercial fitness centers and gyms buy new equipment for the purpose of retaining current member and attracting new ones. What this means is that there is some sort of surplus used gym equipment and fitness machines out there being sold at reasonable prices; and the best thing about them is that they’re still in very good operating condition since they’ve only been used for a short time.
But then again, there also are those that might have some hidden defects or problems in them. Therefore, it’s a wise decision to first learn everything about used fitness equipment before you go on shopping.
Know the Terminology
The truth is you really won’t find any existing formal standard or rules on describing used gym equipment. But then again, it still makes sense to learn if there is any difference between a pre-owned or refurbished gym equipment, or maybe one that’ reconditioned. Address all your questions to the sales representative, who in turn is inclined to explain to you the differences.
Commercial vs Residential
The next thing you want to know is if you’re buying a commercial or residential type of gym equipment. In this regard, it is best to look for a commercial grade fitness equipment sold for a discounted price. You obviously will pick a commercial type against a residential grade. The advantage of choosing a commercial grade used equipment is that you expect it to last longer even if they’re pre-owned since they’re designed for the daily grind and constant use and abuse.
Consider the Brand
With regards to buying used products, including exercise machines, it is very important that you pick those made by renowned manufacturers or established brands. If you choose a manufacturer with an attached reputation for making premium quality products, it mostly likely means that even if you are merely buying a pre-owned item, it still is reliable performance wise. Don’t ever buy one with an unknown manufacturer because you might end up literally throwing your money away.
Warranty Coverage
Lastly, if you can find one, choose a used gym or fitness equipment with warranty from the original purchase still attached. If there’s no manufacturer’s warranty, ask the dealer if they’re providing their own.