Fitness Deals—Part 1: Local Deals

Posted by JuryDuty - 08/27/08 at 01:08:12 pm

Gyminee members love a good deal. It’s easy to “go Pro” when it only costs $5/month.

You can find great deals on exercise equipment you use, too. You should rarely have to pay full price if you do your homework. Here are the best places to find new and used gym items locally at bargain basement prices:

• Garage Sales—Never overlook the bargains you’ll find from your neighbors. Anyone who hits the pavement on Saturday morning will tell you that there are countless elliptical machines, steppers and other popular equipment still in perfect shape, regardless of the owner’s New Years’ Resolutions. And the price is often the best you’ll find. Earlier this year, I happened upon a $350 recumbent bike in like-new condition for $25. Believe me when I say I’ve gotten my $25 out of it!
• Local Resell Shops—Don’t forget to visit local resale shops like Play It Again Sports for good deals on used equipment. From free weights to gear for specific sports, this is an easy way to pick up a good item for a good price when you need it quickly.
• Coupons—Don’t underestimate the power of coupons or other discounts when shopping locally. GNC offers a 20% discount to Gold Card members on the first week of each month. Energy bars are regularly on sale at drugstores like CVS or Walgreens and those sales can be stacked with coupons.
• “Secret Sales”—Finally, if you want to sign up for a national gym, keep an eye out for “secret sales.” Many larger local businesses have established relationships with gyms to offer their employees discounts—you may be eligible for one and not even know it. Other times you can find deals offered to current members who refer friends. And a couple times a year, Costco offers a 2-year pass to 24 Hour Fitness (All Sports clubs) for $289. That’s $12/month, which is hard to beat.

In Part 2, we’ll look at places to find great deals online.

What are some of the best local fitness deals you’ve come across?

–JuryDuty

(Christopher Maselli at WritingMomentum.com)

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