In today's economy of tightened lending requirements and loss of employment we are seeing a downturn in the startup of new health clubs and fitness centers. Even corporate fitness centers have dropped off due to smaller budgets, layoffs and the like. Likewise we have seen an increase in gyms and health clubs, personal trainers seeking used fitness equipment. Regardless of any economy crisis, fitness equipment is going to break and wear out after many years of use. The facility will have to replace it with new equipment to keep the members happy and maintain the facility. The need has arisen for alternative options to fulfill the obligations of the facility yet remain within the confines of limited budgets.
The alternative has been used fitness equipment also know as pre-owned, refurbished, reconditioned fitness equipment. The time could not be better for these operations to find this type of equipment because many gym facilities are closing up as unprofitable, defaulting on leased equipment that is repossessed and corporate gyms that are downsizing or combining their equipment from several gyms into one gym housed at one corporate location. Our operation has been receiving calls weekly desperately requesting bid offers on facilities that need to unload their fitness equipment for these reasons. This is resulting in a warehouse loaded with used fitness equipment including top name brands like Life fitness, True fitness, Paramount Fitness, Precor fitness, Hammer strength, Cybex, Body Master, and many others.
The influx of this equipment has created an entirely new market for dealers and for those who need more affordable options to replace outdated or beyond repair fitness equipment. Used gym equipment is an excellent choice for residential facilities, personal trainer gyms, corporate or retirement heath club facilities and even individuals looking for higher quality cardio or strength equipment for a high end home gym. If you are looking for high quality on a limited budget then you should definitely research purchasing used fitness equipment from a reputable dealer. Good used fitness equipment typically is put through rigorous inspection by certified technicians that are trained by the manufacturers. All damaged or worn parts are replaced and the frames are painted. Used equipment options vary as some units may only be 1-2 year old while other older units 4-6 years may be more worn and should be reflected in pricing which ranges from 60-80% below the original MSRP.
Pricing can usually be negotiated and really depends on what was invested to bring the fitness equipment back up to clean usable condition. Most dealers will be willing to negotiate price if you buy more pieces, as they find no benefit storing it in a warehouse. If you're looking to buy a larger ask for a quantity break. Most often dealers offer discounts or offer a free unit of lesser value if a buyer spends over a certain amount for any used equipment. If you are looking to save a little and are not afraid to do a little bargain shopping consider the option of used fitness equipment you may be pleasantly surprised at the great deals you may find on some used fitness equipment.
Chris Beard is the web master for Athletic Concepts, Inc., which provides sales, service and installation of quality commercial fitness equipment. Additionally we buy and sell used fitness equipment. See inventory at: www.Athletic-Concepts.com www.ReconditionedFitness.com www.Athletic-Concepts.net
