Buying a Treadmill Used For SaleOver the years, treadmills have changed significantly. They come with LCD TVs and touchscreens, as well as other features to help improve your health.
The purchase of a treadmill is an expensive purchase. If you're looking to purchase one for a reasonable price, buy used. You can find a treadmill available for sale at sites like Play it Again Sports.
Buying a Used Treadmill
There are a variety of used treadmills for sale if your budget doesn't allow you to purchase a new model. They can be found online at places like eBay and Craiglist or at second-hand sports stores, or even at garage and rummage sales.
Be sure to check for wear signs when purchasing a used treadmill. Be on the lookout for scratches, scuffs and deteriorated paint. Verify the maximum weight to ensure it meets your needs.
You may also inquire from the seller about any service records. These records can give you an idea of how frequently the treadmill was used and if it was maintained. Additionally, if there were any issues with the treadmill in the past, these records can aid in determining if those issues will likely resurface.
It's also important to check whether the manufacturer's guarantee is still valid. It's crucial to confirm that the warranty is still valid prior to purchasing. If it's not, then you'll need to factor that into the overall cost of the treadmill.
It is also important to consider the age of the treadmill. In general you should opt for a more modern model. You'll have the most recent technology and features. Newer models tend to be more efficient in terms of energy consumption, too.
Ask the seller if the treadmill has ever been repaired or maintained. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from the treadmill in the near future. It can also be helpful in negotiations for the price.
Before you make an offer, have a clear picture of your budget. This will help you be firm with your price and prevent the seller from taking advantage of you. You should be prepared to leave the deal if you feel that the asking price is too much. You are able to return to negotiate later if you don't feel comfortable with the initial offer.
The Pros
A used treadmill might be the ideal solution for you if you're seeking a treadmill that can do the job without spending a lot of money. But before you drop any money on a used fitness machine, it's important to conduct your research first. The most effective way to determine if the treadmill you're buying is worth the price it's asking is by taking it for a test run. While you're on the treadmill, take a close look at it to determine indications of wear or damage. Check the running belt and listen to the sounds while it's in use and ensure that the electronic components (like the display console, buttons and heart rate monitors) are working properly.
Ask the seller for the history of the treadmill. Ask how often the treadmill has been used and the type of workouts it's endured. A treadmill that's been damaged won't last very long. Be cautious when purchasing an old treadmill or needs major repairs.
Asking the seller if the treadmill has warranties is another excellent idea. If the treadmill comes with an official warranty from the manufacturer you should be able to find this information by searching on the internet or contacting the company directly.
You may also ask the seller if they have any service records for the treadmill, which can aid in assessing the condition of the treadmill. These documents will let you know when the treadmill was repaired in the last time and if it has had any serious issues in the past.
It's also a good idea to ask the seller about any additional items that come with the treadmill, like an electric cord or manual. You can save money by not buying the additional items separately if they are included in the treadmill. Finally, remember to discuss the cost with the seller. If you can come up with an acceptable offer the seller might be willing to accept it. Be prepared to quit the deal should they refuse to compromise.
The Cons
If you buy a new treadmill, it's as much of an investment as any other piece of equipment. You do not want to end up with a fitness item that costs a thousand dollars that is a mess in your home fitness center. Many people make the wise decision to purchase an old treadmill.
Examine every aspect of a treadmill. Check that the motor is operating smoothly and quietly. Check for fraying or wear on the belt. Test the operation of the machine using different speeds and the incline levels. If the machine is noisy, vibrates or has any other issues, get it out of the way.
Also, consider how the previous owner of the treadmill dealt with it. Did they clean it regularly and lubricate it? If yes the machine is likely to be less worn out and have fewer battle marks than if it had been frequently abused.
It is possible to locate a used treadmill that comes with a manufacturer's warranty. This is an excellent option since it will protect you from any unexpected problems with your treadmill. If you purchase from a physical store or a private seller, it's important to ask whether the warranty is transferable.
A used treadmill is generally cheaper than a new model of the same model. If you are on a tight budget, this can be a great way to save money. It's worth it to pay slightly more for a model that's slightly more expensive than the model you're thinking of.
A big drawback to buying an old treadmill is that you'll likely need to collect it and return it to the store. This is an issue in the event that you don't own a truck or aren't able to enlist the help of strong friends.
When purchasing a used treadmill, you must also verify the condition of the console and the buttons. A user-friendly and functional display is a major advantage to your workouts. It is best to stay clear of models that are damaged or defective buttons.
The Bottom Line
You may want to think about purchasing a used treadmill in case you are looking to purchase one for your home, or if you need to clear the space in your gym. Like most fitness equipment, treadmills lose value quickly after being purchased. This is an excellent option for people who are on a tight budget or don't want to spend the cost of a new treadmill.
However, before you plop down your hard-earned dollars on a second-hand machine, make sure you take the time and do some research. The best first step is to look for a trusted fitness brand. These companies are known for their quality and dependability which can prolong the life of a treadmill. The majority of these brands conduct a lot tolerance testing to ensure that their products are up-to-par. This helps to reduce the amount of repairs required in the course of time.
Another important thing to consider is the way that the treadmill was used by its previous owners. For instance, if a previous owner preferred to run at steep inclines, that feature could have incurred many strains over time. The touchscreen's buttons may have been incessantly pressed during HIIT exercises. There are a variety of things that can affect the performance of the treadmill over time.
Find out about any warranties that may be available. Some sellers keep service records on their treadmills like they do with their cars. This can give you an idea of the background of the machine, and could provide you with a sense of security that it has been well-maintained.
Some used sporting goods shops (like Play It Again Sports) might also be able transfer the manufacturer's warranty to the new owner. This can be an added benefit for those who are considering purchasing an old treadmill, since it offers additional security and peace-of-mind.
