Factory Direct Ellipticals

Buying a Used Elliptical

So, you’re considering buying a used elliptical? Elliptical machines are one of those things that I really do suggest you buy new if possible. But if buying used makes the difference in 1.) getting one or NOT getting one at all, or 2.) getting a quality used elliptical over a cheap new elliptical, then a used elliptical might be just what the fitness doctor ordered.

Some quick pros and cons of buying used vs. new:

Pros of buying a used elliptical:

  • Can get a better machine for less (duh!)
  • No taxes!
  • Might get a real bargain on a nearly new machine as enough fitness equipment goes virtually unused

Cons of buying a used elliptical:

  • Warranty might be void or non-existent; learn what you can
  • The elliptical’s best years might be behind it
  • Might take some time finding something you are happy with, especially if hunting for a specific trainer

Tip: If the machine looks like it has really been worked then strongly consider moving on.

Best places to buy used ellipticals:

  • Craigslist - With the biggest free classifieds collection in the world, it’s hard to match Craigslist! Find your city and search for “elliptical”. Here’s a search for my city of Calgary which at the time found 18 results. Not bad Craig!
  • Ebay - Ebay is always worth checking out, but for something bigger like an elliptical trainer, Craigslist has an advantage in that you’re searching right in your area and will probably be picking up the item, not having it shipped. Here’s a used elliptical search on Ebay. Note that even with the word “used” you’ll still get a lot of new machine results.
  • Used Ellipticals from Usedgymequipment.com - This is an interesting used fitness equipment business selling refurbished elliptical trainers and other equipment. I’m not sure it makes sense you’d buy just one machine from here though. They seem more setup to sell lots of equipment.
  • The classifieds in your local newspaper and any surrounding area newspaper where a pickup would be possible. See if they have a website! If you feel like being proactive, go ahead and take out a “wanted” ad in the paper for your used elliptical.
  • Trade-in brick and mortar stores - My experience has been if somebody has a good piece of used fitness equipment, they will try selling on their own first. This eliminates the middle-man and should mean more money in the pockets of the buyer and seller. But some people can’t be bothered due to time or just don’t care how much they get for the equipment, so they’ll unload it on a trade-in type store. Of course fitness stores often sell used equipment too.

Also check out our general elliptical buying guide which applies to new and used machines. We also have a compreshensive list for buying an elliptical online which applies mostly to new machines.