The Best Time to Buy Home Exercise Equipment Is Right Now
Between website discount codes and the proliferation of online-only retailers, you’re more likely to find better deals on exercise equipment online than you will in-store. Besides the obvious convenience, buying online can streamline comparison shopping, and you’re not limited to whatever selection a physical store may carry. Thankfully, you can use online discounts to your advantage when shopping in-person.
Sign up for email alerts. Not all retailers follow a set rubric for when to discount their merchandise — if you have your eye on gear from specific fitness brands, such as NordicTrack, Adidas, and Oura, sign up for their newsletters so that you can be among the first to learn about any surprise sales and discounts throughout the year. Typically, new subscribers also get some sort of discount after sign-up, and some retailers also offer a yearly discount on your birthday, which can snag you some additional savings.
Keep an eye out for shipping fees. Buying online and shipping to your home can prevent some unfortunate mishaps — not just possible damage to your new machine, but also your body or vehicle when trying to schlep that hefty box back home — and many online retailers frequently offer free shipping on big-ticket items. However, in the event your purchase doesn’t meet the free-shipping minimum, consider whether the shipping cost negates any other savings. You may be able to opt for store pickup to avoid shipping fees, while still taking advantage of exclusive online discounts.
Leverage price-match policies. If you do decide to buy in-store, you can use your online price research to request a price match at a brick-and-mortar store that offers it, so you can get your equipment the same day — if you have the means to lug it out of the store.
Be aware of return policies. It’s smart to test out floor models of machines before you buy, but it’s not always possible. So if you find yourself stuck with a wedgie-inducing exercise bike or a behemoth of a treadmill that won’t fit in your space, it’s easier (and more cost-effective) to just return it instead of letting it collect dust in your home as an overpriced coat rack or art installation. Most retailers have at least a 30-day return policy, but be sure to read the fine print: Some may impose restocking fees, withhold refunds on shipping or setup fees, and even require the original packaging for returns.
