Have you ever bought kitchen or exercise equipment only to have it loose its glow as soon as you got it home? Then you know that much of the stuff on offer at yard sales is in mint condition. These are a great source of usable home gym equipment. is to check out yard sales. Of course many people would overlook this option but if you look you are able to find some great equipment at a great price. It seems devices bought with the good intention of getting fit make it to yard sales as quickly as our outgrown clothes. Coincidence? Many people get new exercise equipment for Christmas or as a New Year’s resolution only to use it once or twice. Their inertia is a real gold mine for the person bent on serious exercise.

A bonus lies in that most exercise equipment is large and visible from the street. You may not even have to get out of your car before spotting the equipment of your dreams. When this is the case, inquire about the background, use and condition of the piece of exercise equipment. Get the best idea you can of the type of shape the equipment is in and, even more important, what parts are present and which are missing. Make sure you find out when they bought it and how often it was used. Determine is the equipment has been maintained and cleaned properly and how long it has been sitting idle. These, including where the item has been stored, are all important questions that will give you an idea of the quality of the equipment.

Even more important is to scrutinize the equipment and make sure it is functional and has all parts that are not easily and cheaply replaced. Ask if original manual that came with it is included. This manual will show what the machine looked like when the sellers’ first purchased it and what was included. It informs how to use and maintain the machine. If nonessential pieces are missing or damaged, ask for a discount. Most people just want to get rid of the equipment and the worst they can do is say no. Make certain all the safety devices are there. If necessary, go to a store that sells the same or similar model and see what is included. If your yard sale find compares well, and has a good price, go for it.

Do keep in mind your price range when shopping at yard sales. Try to know how much the original price was to help you determine how much you wan to pay. This may result in the bargain piece of used equipment that you will use!