Buying a Treadmill Used For Sale
Over the years treadmills have evolved significantly. They now feature LCD TVs, touchscreens and various other features that can help you increase your fitness.
A treadmill can be expensive to purchase. If you want to get one at a reasonable cost then consider buying a used. You can find a treadmill used for sale at places like Play it Again Sports.
Buying a Secondhand Treadmill
There are plenty of used treadmills for sale for sale if your budget isn't enough to allow you to purchase a brand new model. They can be found on websites like eBay and Craiglist or at second-hand sports products stores.
When buying a used treadmill, make sure to inspect it for any indications of wear and tear. Check for scratches, scuffs and deteriorated paint. Examine the maximum weight to make sure that it meets your needs.
You can also request service records. These records will provide you with an idea of how often the treadmill has been used and if it was maintained. In addition, if there was any issues with the treadmill in the past, these records can help you determine if these issues are likely to resurface.
Another thing to think about is whether the manufacturer's warranty remains valid. Most warranties do not transfer from one owner to the next therefore it's a good idea to verify this prior to making a buy. If it's not the case, you'll need to include it in the price of the treadmill.
The age of a treadmill is also something to keep in mind. In general it is best to opt for a more modern model. You'll get the latest technology and features. Newer models tend to be more efficient in terms of energy consumption, too.
You should also ask the seller about any previous repairs or maintenance completed on the treadmill. You will have a better idea of what you can expect from the treadmill in the near future. It will also be helpful in negotiations.
Be sure to have a clear idea of your budget prior to making an offer. This will allow you to remain focused on your price and not let the seller profit from you. You should also be willing to leave if the seller's asking price is too high. You can always return to negotiate later if you aren't satisfied with the initial offer.
The Pros
If you're looking for an exercise machine that will get the job done without costing you a fortune, a used treadmill may be just the ticket. Be sure to do your research prior to purchasing a fitness equipment used. Test driving a treadmill is the best method to determine if it is worth the asking price. While you're on the treadmill, look closely at it for signs of wear or damage. Check the running belt, listen to how it sounds when it's in use, and make sure the electronic components (like the display console, buttons and heart rate monitors) are functioning properly.
Ask the seller for the history of the treadmill. Ask the seller what the frequency at which the treadmill was used and what workouts were performed on it. A treadmill that has been used to the limit won't last very long. Be cautious about purchasing an old treadmill or requires major repairs.
Asking the seller if the treadmill comes with warranties is another good idea. If it has a manufacturer's warranty, you can find the information on the internet or by contacting the company directly.
You may also ask the seller if they have any service records for the treadmill, which can help you gauge its condition. These records will reveal when the treadmill was last serviced and if there were any serious issues in the past.
Ask the seller whether the treadmill comes with extras, like the power cord or manual. You can save money by not buying the extras separately if they are included in the treadmill. Remember to bargain the price with the seller. If you're able to make an acceptable offer and the seller is willing to accept it. Be prepared to walk away from the seller if they refuse to budge.
The Cons
When you purchase a brand new treadmill, it's just as much of an investment as any other piece of equipment. You do not want to end up with a thousand-dollar fitness decoration that collects dust in your home gym. That's why buying a used treadmill is a smart option for a lot of people.
If you are shopping for a secondhand treadmill, make sure to look at the entire equipment. Make sure the motor works smoothly and quietly. Examine for wear or fraying on the belt. Try different speeds and tilt settings to test their functionality. If the machine sounds loud, shakes or has any other issues, get it out of the way.
Also, think about how the previous owner of the treadmill handled it. Did they regularly oil the treadmill and clean it? If yes you're likely to have a less-worn treadmill and less battle scars than if the treadmill was regularly abused.
It is possible to find a used treadmill that has a manufacturer's guarantee. This is an excellent option as it can protect you from any issues that may arise with your treadmill. If you purchase a treadmill from an actual store or private seller, you need to ask whether the warranty can be transferred.
A used treadmill is typically cheaper than a new model of the same model. This can save you money if you're on a tight budget. If you can afford a more expensive model than the one you're looking at, it could be worth the extra cost.
A big drawback to buying a used treadmill is that you'll need to collect it and return it to the store. If you don't have a truck, or can't get help from your friends, this can be a problem.
If you are buying a used treadmill, you'll want to verify the condition of the display console and buttons. A display that's easy to operate and functional can be a great asset for your training. It is best to stay clear of units that have damaged or defective buttons.
The Bottom Line
You may want to consider buying a used treadmill if you're looking to purchase one for your home or to clear out the space in your gym. As with all fitness equipment, treadmills rapidly lose their value after purchase. This makes it a great option for those on an extremely tight budget or don't have the cash to buy a brand new treadmill.
But before you plunk down your hard-earned cash on a used machine ensure you take the time and do some research. Start by examining the reputation of a fitness equipment. These companies are known for their quality and dependability, which can help extend the lifespan of a treadmill. Most of these brands also conduct a lot tolerance testing to ensure that their products are up-to-par. This can reduce the number of repairs required over time.
The previous owner of the treadmill should also be considered. If the treadmill was used by a previous owner who liked to run up steep hills, this feature could be subject to a lot more stress over time. Similarly, buttons on the touchscreen might have been repeatedly hit during HIIT exercises. These are just a few things that can impact the performance of a treadmill over time.
It's also worth asking for any warranty information that may be available. While it's not certain that this will be the case, some sellers keep service records for their treadmills, much like they do for automobiles. This can provide you with a clue as to the history of the machine, and could give you peace of mind that it has been well-maintained.
Additionally, some used sports goods stores (like Play It Again Sports) might be able to transfer a manufacturer's warranty the new owner. This is an added benefit for those who are considering purchasing a used treadmill, as it provides extra security and peace of mind.