The market for used cardio equipment is booming. Rising equipment prices, a growing awareness of sustainability and the desire for long-lasting studio quality mean that more and more fitness studios and private individuals are looking at the second-hand market. And indeed, if you take a structured approach, you can buy high-quality treadmills, bikes, cross trainers or rowing machines at a fraction of the price of new ones - without compromising on training quality.
At the same time, buying second-hand requires a little more preparation than buying new equipment. The aim is not to avoid risks, but to understand and classify them. This article shows how used cardio equipment can be professionally evaluated - from a technical, economic and practical perspective. It is deliberately aimed at both gym operators and private individuals, as the basis for decision-making is surprisingly similar.
Why it is worth looking at used cardio equipment
Anyone buying a new professional cardio machine today will quickly invest several thousand euros. Particularly in the gym sector, high-quality treadmills, cross trainers or indoor bikes are in the upper four- to five-figure range. At the same time, many machines are replaced after a few years, even though they are still technically fit for purpose. This creates a very active second-hand market with surprisingly high quality.
Buying used can be a strategic decisionfor fitness studios. It makes it possible to reduce investments, amortize them more quickly and at the same time use high-quality brands. Used equipment can be an economically sensible addition, especially for expansions, second locations or special areas.
There is also an exciting opportunity for private users. Many home devices are designed for occasional use, while studio devices are built for continuous use. Used studio equipment can therefore often run reliably in the home gym for many years and offer a much more professional training experience.
Last but not least, sustainability plays a role. The continued use of high-quality equipment extends its life cycle and saves resources. This is an additional advantage for many studios and fitness enthusiasts.
The used market: structure and price trends
The market for used cardio equipment is diverse and ranges from specialized dealers to private offers. There are basically three typical sources of supply.
Refurbished dealers offer equipment that has been checked, cleaned and often fitted with new wearing parts. There is often a warranty and optional service. These devices are more expensive than private offers, but offer greater security.
Leasing returns or equipment from studio liquidations are usually in the mid-range in terms of price. They are often well maintained, but require careful inspection.
Private sales are often the cheapest. At the same time, the greatest responsibility lies with the buyer, as the maintenance history and condition are not always fully documented.
Depending on age, condition and brand, used cardio equipment is often priced between 30 and 70 percent of the new price. High-quality indoor bikes and rowing machines are particularly stable in value. Treadmills and cross trainers also show stable prices, provided they have been regularly serviced.
Which cardio machines are suitable for buying second-hand?
In principle, any used cardio machine can be useful if it is in good condition and has been regularly serviced. However, equipment differs in terms of its technical complexity and therefore the type of testing required.
Treadmills are technically sophisticated, but also offer the greatest training comfort. They have a motor, electronics and mechanical components. With good maintenance, they can run reliably for many years and are very popular both in the studio and in the home gym.
Cross trainers are mechanically solid and easy on the joints. They are well suited for second-hand purchase if the bearings and resistance system are in good order.
Indoor bikes and ergometers are considered to be particularly durable. Their construction is comparatively simple and maintenance costs are moderate. They are therefore a common choice for both studios and at home.
Rowing machines are known for their robustness and ease of maintenance. High-quality models have a long service life and are in high demand on the second-hand market.
It is important to note that no machine is "problematic" or "perfect" per se. Condition, use and maintenance are always decisive.
Technical inspection: What really matters
The most important step when buying used is the technical inspection. A quick glance is not enough. Ideally, every piece of equipment should be tested under realistic training conditions.
In the case of treadmills, the motor should run smoothly and evenly. The running belt should be properly centered and show no signs of heavy wear. The cushioning and the emergency stop system should also be tested. The electronics, especially the programs and display, should respond reliably.
It is worth taking a close look at the bearings and joints of the cross trainer. Cracking noises or an uneven movement sequence can indicate wear. The resistance should work evenly, as should the display.
Indoor bikes and ergometers should run smoothly and offer even resistance. Seat and handlebar adjustments should be stable and the display should work correctly.
Rowing machines can usually be assessed quickly. The pull should be even, the chain or rope in good condition, the bar clean and the monitor functional.
These checks do not take long, but provide a solid basis for making a decision.
Maintenance and spare parts: The often underestimated factor
A used cardio machine is only as good as its maintenance. Equipment that has been regularly maintained can continue to work reliably for years. It is therefore worth asking for maintenance records and looking at the general state of care.
Equally important is the availability of spare parts. Premium manufacturers often offer spare parts for many years. This increases planning security - both for studios and private users. Wear parts such as belts, bearings or pedals can usually be replaced without any problems.
If you are thinking long-term, you should also consider access to service partners. Studios in particular benefit from fixed maintenance intervals and clear contact persons.
Cost-effectiveness: What does a device really cost?
The purchase price alone says little about the actual cost of a device. The decisive factor is the overall consideration over the service life of the appliance. This includes maintenance, possible repairs, energy consumption and intensity of use.
Despite higher maintenance costs, a used premium device can be significantly more economical than a cheap new device with a short service life. For studios, this often means faster amortization. For private users, it can mean more training comfort and a longer service life.
A realistic assessment of usage is important. A device that is used regularly is more likely to justify a higher investment. An occasional device should be selected accordingly.
Realistically assess the risks
Buying second-hand involves certain uncertainties, but these are easy to calculate. Technical risks can be reduced by thorough examination. Economic risks can be minimized by realistic budget planning.
A sensible strategy is to plan a small buffer for maintenance or spare parts. This creates security and prevents unpleasant surprises.
Many dealers also offer warranty options. Although these increase the purchase price, they can offer additional security.
Sustainability as an additional advantage
In addition to economic aspects, sustainability is playing an increasingly important role. The continued use of high-quality cardio equipment reduces resource consumption and extends product life cycles. For many studios, this is an important part of their positioning. Private users also increasingly value durable products.
Practical 10-point checklist
Finally, a compact overview of the most important steps when buying used equipment is worthwhile. This checklist is suitable for both studios and private individuals.
1. clarify the age and use of the device
2. ask about the maintenance history
3. carry out a test run
4. check noise and running behavior
5. test the electronics
6. inspect wearing parts
7. check availability of spare parts
8. plan transportation and assembly
9. compare warranty options
10. realistically calculate the overall budget
If you take these points into account, you will generally make a safe decision.
A worthwhile option for many situations
Used cardio equipment is an attractive way to use high-quality training equipment economically and sustainably. Both gyms and private users can benefit from the combination of lower costs and high quality.
The key lies in a structured approach. If you test equipment, take maintenance into account and calculate realistically, you will often find exactly the right equipment on the second-hand market. This creates a win-win situation: high-quality training conditions with efficient use of the budget.
Used cardio equipment can remain in reliable use for many years if it is bought and checked properly - both in the studio and in the home gym.
Editorial team fitnessmarkt.de
Image source: #613217488 Julia / stock.adobe.com
Published on: 18 February 2026