Take Advantage of the Best Time to Buy Home Exercise Equipment

As the new year begins and millions of Americans embark on their fitness resolutions, retailers are seizing the opportunity by extending end-of-year sales and introducing fresh New Year’s discounts. This makes January the prime time to invest in workout equipment and accessories without breaking the bank.

Notably, the Peloton Bike has been on sale consistently from December through January. Similar discounts apply to smaller-scale equipment like kettlebells and pull-up bars. January is also a great time to find deals on running shoes, sports bras, workout headphones, water bottles, and more.

While January offers some of the deepest discounts, it’s worth noting that deals may extend into February. Around 80% of Americans abandon their New Year’s resolutions by February, creating the potential to purchase returned items at attractive prices for resale. Additionally, more retailers are participating in Presidents’ Day sales events, which may include discounts on fitness gear.

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to buy exercise equipment:

1. Summertime: As the weather warms up, many people prefer outdoor exercise. At the same time, companies aim to clear inventory for newer models. Summer brings deals on hiking boots, fitness trackers, trekking poles, swim goggles, and more. You can also expect significant price drops on outdoor cycling accessories, workout and running gear, and clothing during Memorial Day and Labor Day sales, as well as Amazon’s Prime Day sale (typically held in June or July).
2. End-of-year holiday shopping: While January offers the deepest discounts on fitness gear, major sales events at the end of the year provide more opportunities to save (albeit within a limited window). Black Friday and Cyber Monday historically offer the best sales on exercise bikes like Peloton and Bowflex, along with frequent deals on items like the Mirror, running watches, and Lululemon leggings. Amazon’s major retail sales events also feature substantial discounts on fitness accessories such as yoga mats, massage guns, and running headphones. These end-of-year discounts often have more longevity, with some retailers extending their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales through the end of the year.

When purchasing exercise gear, consider the following money-saving tips:

• Research your purchase online: Online shopping provides access to better deals, discount codes, and a wider selection compared to in-store shopping.
• Sign up for email alerts: Subscribe to newsletters from fitness brands you’re interested in to receive notifications about surprise sales and discounts throughout the year. New subscribers often receive welcome discounts, and some retailers offer birthday discounts as well.
• Leverage price-match policies: Use your online research to request price matches at brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy or Walmart, allowing you to get your equipment on the same day.
• Watch out for shipping fees: Many online retailers offer free shipping on big-ticket items, but be mindful of minimum purchase requirements or consider store pickup to avoid shipping fees.
• Understand return policies: While testing equipment in-store is ideal, familiarize yourself with return policies in case you need to return a product. Restocking fees, refund withholdings, and packaging requirements may apply.

Consider exploring refurbished and gently used options:

• Refurbished items: Buying directly from manufacturers or their authorized storefronts on platforms like Amazon and eBay can save you money. Ensure they offer a warranty and free returns. For instance, refurbished Peloton Bikes, backed by a 12-month warranty and free delivery and setup, can be purchased for a significantly lower price compared to new models.
• Used equipment: Major fitness gear retailers and local options often have used equipment available. Research the model, verify its functionality, and exercise caution to avoid purchasing obsolete or faulty items.

By capitalizing on the best times to buy exercise equipment and implementing smart shopping strategies, you can minimize expenses while maximizing the return on your investment. Stay motivated on your fitness journey and achieve your goals with the right equipment at the right price.