Fitness equipment can be a great investment in your health, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. However, with a bit of strategy and know-how, you can save big and still get the gear you need to stay in shape. Whether you're looking for a high-end treadmill or a set of dumbbells, there are plenty of ways to get the best deals. This guide will provide you with tips and tricks to score top-notch fitness equipment without breaking the bank.
Shop During Sales Events
One of the easiest ways to save money on fitness equipment is by shopping during major sales events. Retailers often offer significant discounts during holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Memorial Day. Fitness equipment is frequently included in these promotions, with discounts ranging from 20% to as much as 50% off on select items. By timing your purchase to coincide with these events, you can save hundreds of dollars on high-ticket items like treadmills, ellipticals, and weight benches.
In addition to the big holiday sales, many retailers hold clearance events at the end of the year or when they’re rolling out new inventory. Keep an eye on stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Amazon, and Best Buy for these seasonal sales. You can also sign up for email newsletters to be notified when fitness equipment goes on sale.
Buy Pre-Owned or Refurbished Equipment
Another great way to save on fitness equipment is to buy pre-owned or refurbished items. Many people purchase expensive fitness gear with good intentions, but it ends up gathering dust in their homes after just a few uses. As a result, there is a thriving market for used fitness equipment in excellent condition.
Check websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay for local listings of gently used gear. You can often find high-quality treadmills, weight sets, and stationary bikes for a fraction of the cost. If you’re concerned about buying used equipment, look for items that have been professionally refurbished by retailers or manufacturers. Refurbished equipment is often backed by a warranty and is inspected to ensure it’s in working condition.
Shop Online for Exclusive Discounts
Online shopping can offer significant savings, especially when you know where to look. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer a wide range of fitness equipment at competitive prices, and they often have online-only deals. Before making any purchase, be sure to compare prices across multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Take advantage of browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten, which automatically apply coupons and cashback offers to your purchases. These tools can save you a few extra dollars, especially on big-ticket items. Signing up for store loyalty programs or fitness equipment retailer newsletters can also provide access to exclusive discounts and early notifications of upcoming sales.
Look for Discount Codes and Coupons
Coupon codes and promotional offers are one of the simplest ways to save money on fitness equipment. Many online retailers regularly offer discount codes, especially for first-time shoppers or when signing up for a newsletter. Websites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com can be great resources for finding discount codes for popular fitness brands and retailers.
In addition to searching for online coupon codes, check if the retailer offers price matching. Some stores will match a competitor’s lower price, helping you save money without having to switch retailers.
Buy in Bundles or Sets
When purchasing fitness equipment, buying in bundles can often save you money. Retailers sometimes offer package deals that include several pieces of equipment for a lower price than if you bought each item individually. For example, if you’re looking to build a home gym, buying a weight bench, a set of dumbbells, and resistance bands together can often result in a discount.
Similarly, fitness brands like Bowflex, NordicTrack, and Peloton may offer bundle packages that include accessories like mats, weights, and subscriptions to workout apps. Bundling equipment and accessories is an excellent way to get everything you need at a discounted price.
Shop Outlet and Clearance Sections
Many fitness retailers have outlet stores or clearance sections where they sell last-season models or overstocked equipment at a discount. While these items may not be the latest models, they are still high-quality pieces that can meet your fitness needs. Outlet stores for brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour often carry discounted fitness gear and equipment.
Online clearance sections from retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Dick’s Sporting Goods are also good places to find markdowns on fitness equipment. Shopping in these sections can yield big savings on everything from exercise bikes to yoga mats.
Wait for the Off-Season
Timing your purchase for the off-season can result in significant discounts on fitness equipment. The demand for fitness gear typically spikes in January due to New Year’s resolutions, which means prices are often higher. By waiting until later in the year, such as spring or summer, you can find better deals as retailers look to clear out inventory.
The same principle applies to seasonal items like outdoor fitness gear or equipment for sports like cycling and hiking. Purchasing these items during the off-season, when they’re not in high demand, can lead to major discounts.
Negotiate or Haggle
If you're purchasing fitness equipment from a local store or directly from a seller, don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. Many retailers, especially smaller stores, may be willing to offer a discount if you ask, particularly on higher-end equipment or larger purchases. This is especially true if you’re buying multiple items at once.
When shopping for used equipment on platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, haggling is often expected. Sellers are typically open to negotiation, especially if they’re eager to get rid of the equipment. Be respectful when making an offer, but don’t be afraid to ask for a lower price.
Consider Financing or Payment Plans
If you’re looking to purchase a more expensive piece of equipment but don’t want to pay the full amount upfront, consider financing options or payment plans. Many retailers offer interest-free financing for a limited time, allowing you to break up the cost into manageable monthly payments. Brands like Peloton and NordicTrack often have financing deals that make it easier to afford high-end equipment without paying the entire cost upfront.
Before agreeing to a payment plan, make sure to read the fine print and understand the terms, including any interest rates that may apply after the promotional period ends.
Join Rewards Programs and Cashback Sites
Many online retailers offer rewards programs or cashback incentives for loyal customers. By signing up for these programs, you can earn points or cashback on your fitness equipment purchases, which can be used toward future buys. Sites like Rakuten offer cashback on purchases from major fitness equipment retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
In addition to cashback programs, some credit cards offer rewards or cashback for purchases made on fitness equipment. Be sure to check with your credit card company to see if any rewards are available for your purchases.
Buy Local or Direct from the Manufacturer
Purchasing directly from the manufacturer or a local supplier can sometimes result in lower prices. Many fitness equipment manufacturers, such as Rogue Fitness or Horizon Fitness, sell directly to consumers through their websites. By cutting out the middleman, you may find better deals than you would at a retail store.
Local fitness stores may also offer competitive pricing, especially if they’re trying to clear out inventory. Additionally, shopping local can sometimes lead to better customer service, including free delivery or setup for large equipment purchases.
Getting the best deals on fitness equipment doesn’t have to be difficult. By taking advantage of sales events, buying pre-owned items, shopping online, and using discount codes, you can find quality gear at a fraction of the cost. Whether you're setting up a home gym or looking for specific pieces of equipment, these strategies can help you stay fit without overspending.
