Buying equipment from Craig's list (gym, reviews, treadmills, machines)
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I'm seriously considering buying a treadmill. The heat is making it very difficult to walk outside and the winter won't be much better. I've been doing indoor step exercises/dancing/etc, but I miss just walking and listening to my program.
I don't want to go to a gym for a number of reasons. On the other hand, I don't want to spend a large amount. I found numerous used treadmills for under two hundred dollars locally.
Would you take a risk on buying used equipment?
Last edited by ParallelJJCat; 09-01-2012 at 07:12 PM..
I would, try it out before you buy it. Treadmills are one of those things that either work, or they do not; not much covering up problems people can do. Also, treadmills seem to be one of those things people buy, and end up hardly using, or ever using, and eventually just sell it.
Unless I am buying free weights (dumbbells and barbells,) I would never, EVER buy used exercise equipment. You have no idea how much punishment exercise machines, even ones only used sporadically, take. Two hundred dollars is way too cheap to spend on a piece of cardio equipment.
You don't want to skimp on machines, especially cardio machines. You don't need a crapton of features that you'll never use, but you'll want your machine to be durable, sturdy and last. If you get a used machine, the probable costs on repairs will probably outweigh the price that you paid for it in the first place. Go online, read reviews, and buy a good, new machine from a reputable dealer.
I would have no problems buying a piece of exercise equipment from Craigslist.
Exercise equipment is one of those things that people buy thinking they will get into shape, then they rarely ever use it, and then sell it because it is taking up space in their home.
Just try it out while you're there, and make certain to ask the owner if they are aware of any issues with it.
Test every single option, and make sure all features are working properly. Make sure the incline/decline feature works.
Test it out like you would be using at home. Walk on it and run on it.
Don't be in a rush to buy the first used one you see.
Used treadmills are very common on Craigslist, and you may be able to get a great deal on a really good one if you search long enough.
Check online for treadmill reviews, to get an idea of what brands and specific models people recommend, and which ones to avoid.
Also, some owners practically want to give treadmills away just to get them out of their homes, so don't hesitate to offer less than they are asking for it once you arrive at their home.
First I would fully test it out ... and then after you've decided you like it enough to buy it, whatever price they are asking, just offer half of that amount ... and see if they are willing to come down on the price.
If they say no to half, then ask what is the lowest offer they'd accept. You may save yourself a lot of money by doing this.
If you are on a budget I would suggest buying used commercial fitness equipment. CSM Fitness Equipment sells commercial equipment at an affordable price. We have two warehouse locations in CA and GA. If you are close buy check it out, as fitness equipment can be heavy shipping could add up. But if you live by these locations or are planning to buy a full gym of equipment, CSM offers great deals
A lot of what I own I have bought it from craigslist and so far I have had no issues except for a treadmill that I bought for 100 bucks and twice it turned off on me in the middle of my run but I checked it and it was someting in the electronic board and I just wiggled a wire and it turned back on and I still have it.
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Where to Buy Used Fitness Equipment
