How to Save 80 Percent Off the Price of Fitness Equipment

You've discovered its time to get into shape and you know that you'll need some fitness equipment like a treadmill, exercise bike, free weights and bench, cross country ski machine or stair climber. However, the cost of these devices, if quality made, start at $300 to $800 each. People buy these things every day, use them a couple times, then put them in the closet, garage, or basement. You can save 80 percent off the cost of purchasing these new. You just need to know where to find the deals.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Newspaper
• Bulletin Boards
• Computer
• Telephone

1. Visit the bulletin board at the post office, grocery store, and library. Remove and take with you all advertisements for used fitness equipment.
2. Read the FOR SALE section of the SUNDAY paper and look for used fitness equipment advertisements. When you see one for sale, cut out the advertisement and call the number for detials.
3. Visit Craigslist and other local online bulletin boards. Visit eBay and see if there are any auctions happening for the equipment you want.
4. Organize all the fitness eqiupment for sale postings you have found. Categorize them by equipment, quality and price. Begin making phone calls and emails. Ask if the equipment is in working order.
5. Using Google, research the web to find what the average new price of the equipment is. Make a note next to each item you have notes for the new list price. Then multiple that price by $.20 to find what your starting offer or bid price will be for each item.
6. Make an appointment to see and test the equipment. Offer the seller the 80 percent discounted off full retail or the amoun they have the item listed for, whichever is lower. Do not feel pressured to buy, if they want to sell it, they will.
7. Take the fitness equipment home, sanitize it using a household cleaner or antiseptic spray. Do this twice. Then use the equipment at least three times a week.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient as good deals are not always easily seen, but once you find it, you'll have saved a ton of money.
• Do not get emotional about any equipment, stick to your pre-calculated maximum price.
• Do not go see the equipment alone. Take someone with you, preferable a large male or female to protect you in case the seller is crazy.