Placing newer fitness equipment inside your health club can be a large expense, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s quite simple! Why do people buy used cars instead of brand new ones…to save money, and who doesn’t like that?! Much like a car, exercise equipment depreciates significantly in the first year of ownership. This means, a gym owner can purchase quality commercial exercise equipment that is one or two years old for, in some cases, 1/3 of the price. You could potentially afford three times the amount of equipment to place on your gym floor.
Many gym owners have noted over the years that replacing fitness equipment regularly to “stay with the times” is a large factor in retaining, and signing up new members. Face it, first impressions last forever. So, when you take a prospective member on a tour of your facility, why not have the absolute best for your members. After all, they are the ones that really keep this industry going.
Finding a reputable used/reconditioned fitness equipment dealer can be tough. There are a lot of people claiming to be “remanufacturing, refurbishing, or reconditioning” the products that they sell. Most dealers do provide a quality product, a good warranty, and great customer service, but you need to call them and investigate for yourself who is providing that valuable service. Ask questions like:
Where did this equipment come from?
Much like many used cars, most of the fitness equipment that is available to the used/reconditioned dealers comes from lease programs. Exercise equipment is commonly leased from the larger manufacturers. Basically, when buying reconditioned machines, you are letting the initial owner pay for the depreciation. Appreciate the depreciation!
What exactly do you do to the equipment?
Most “reconditioners” make the piece look brand new. This includes touching up any paint on the piece, as well as replacing any torn pads, cables or other cosmetic components of the unit. They also ensure that the equipment functions like it’s brand new. Many parts are replaced, as a type of preventative maintenance. Even if the part isn’t broken or defective, many “reconditioners” replace it to basically bring the piece to a “like new” state.
What type of warranty does your company offer?
Most “reconditioners” do provide a warranty, and while this may seem important, it may not be in the long run. It is important that the dealer provide you with peace of mind by including a warranty with each piece of equipment, but, if you choose a reputable “reconditioner” you should not have any need for one. Some companies offer gimmick warranties like, “Lifetime Warranty on all motors and frame.” These are nice, but how often does your frame fail, or even a motor?
Who is doing the reconditioning of the equipment?
Investigate your “reconditioner.” Ask them how long they have been in the business, who is actually completing the repairs on the equipment for you, and how long have they worked there. Knowing who you are dealing with is important on this type of expenditure.
How long will it take for me to receive my purchase?
Realistically, reconditioning of fitness equipment takes time. Most companies require that you place your order with the company, and once payment is received, the reconditioning process will begin. For most companies, it takes approximately two to four weeks to ship the fitness equipment to your facility, but the savings will definitely be worth the wait.
Keeping your existing members, as well as signing up new ones is the primary goal of any health club. By providing your members with the top quality equipment, you can significantly increase your club’s membership. Some of the best advertising is done through your members telling others in the community what a great facility they belong to. People are constantly looking for newer, more technologically advanced fitness equipment to use at your club, give it to them, and the favor will be returned to you, through referrals of other members.
So, when looking to purchase newer fitness equipment for your club, check into reconditioned products. If reconditioned properly, this equipment is just as dependable as new machines, and that can save you a lot money!
Joshua Martel is a Sales Associate with Fitness Deals 1. He can be contacted at 860.741.3200, or by email atfitnessdeals1llc@hotmail.com, or visit www.fitnessdealsone.com.
