Getting in shape doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. Whether you’re looking for weights, a treadmill, or a comfy yoga mat, there are plenty of ways to find high-quality gear at a low price. From secondhand deals to smart shopping trips, this guide will show you how to build your home gym without overspending.

Essential Workout Gear

Staying fit and healthy after 50 is within your reach, and you don’t need fancy or expensive equipment. A few simple pieces of workout gear can help you build strength, improve your cardio and flexibility, and recover faster. Here’s what you need to get started.

Strength Training Basics

Keeping your muscles strong helps with balance, mobility, and overall health. These basic tools make strength training easy:

• Dumbbells: Hand weights that come in various sizes for exercises like bicep curls, shoulder presses, and rows to build upper body strength
• Resistance bands: Stretchy bands that provide gentle to firm resistance for arm, leg, and core strengthening exercises
• Stability ball: An inflatable exercise ball that helps strengthen your core through exercises like seated holds and supported bridges

Cardio Equipment

Regular cardio exercise helps keep your heart healthy and boosts energy. These tools help you stay active at home:

• Jump rope: A simple rope with handles that provides an effective cardio workout while improving coordination
• Step platform: An elevated platform that lets you step up and down for a low-impact cardio workout
• Stationary bike or treadmill: A larger piece of equipment that lets you walk, run, or cycle indoors regardless of weather

Flexibility and Recovery Tools

Stretching and recovery are just as important as exercise. These tools can help:

• Yoga mat: A cushioned mat that provides comfort and stability for floor exercises, stretching, and gentle yoga movements
• Foam roller: A firm cylinder that lets you repeatedly roll over muscles to release tension and soreness
• Massage ball: A firm ball that helps work out muscle knots by rolling it against tight areas or using it for targeted pressure

What’s Worth Buying New

Some workout gear is best bought new for safety and hygiene reasons. Athletic shoes, for example, wear out over time and lose their support. A new pair protects your feet and joints to keep you comfortable and reduce the risk of injury.

Buying yoga mats and resistance bands new is also a good idea. Used yoga mats can absorb sweat, making them harder to clean. A fresh mat gives you the cushion and grip you need. Resistance bands can weaken and snap over time, so getting new ones means a safer and more effective workout.

When it comes to heart rate monitors and fitness trackers, buying new is a wise choice. Used ones may have battery problems or outdated software. Opting for a new device ensures you get all the latest features, accurate tracking, and full manufacturer support.

Top Spots to Find Discounted Workout Gear

Ready to take your fitness journey to the next level? Don’t let the cost of new workout gear hold you back. Let’s explore the top online retailers, outlet stores, and membership clubs to help you snag the lowest prices.

• Outlet stores: Many popular athletic brands, like Nike and Under Armour, have outlet stores where you can find overstocked or slightly imperfect items at reduced prices. Check at the start of each month and end of every season for new deals, as stores often restock then.
• Membership clubs: Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club sometimes offer great deals on workout gear, such as resistance bands, yoga mats, or even treadmills. Read through the store’s flyers or websites weekly to spot deals as they roll out.
• Retailer websites: Major sporting goods stores have flash sales, seasonal promotions, and clearance deals where you can find great discounts on new fitness equipment. Sign up for email or text alerts for the best chance at snagging the deals before they’re gone.

Of course, you can also use a savings finder tool to simplify your search for discounts. With these tools, you can compare prices from various retailers and find the hottest deals on the fitness gear you need.

Where to Find Secondhand Workout Equipment

Give workout gear a second life (and give your wallet a break!) by exploring the secondhand market. Here are some popular places to find pre-owned fitness equipment.

• Thrift stores: You might be surprised by what you can find at your local thrift store. Sometimes, you can score gently used workout clothes, weight sets, or even ellipticals. Check stores in more affluent neighborhoods for a better chance of finding higher-quality items.
• Online marketplaces: OfferUp, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves of used fitness equipment. You can find everything from dumbbells and weight benches to treadmills and rowing machines at a fraction of the cost of new ones. Use specific keywords in your search, like treadmill or weight set, to narrow down your results and save time.
• Specialty retailers: Play It Again Sports is a national chain that buys and sells used sporting goods. Many local fitness equipment stores also sell used or refurbished equipment. Check these spots often for new additions to avoid missing out on a fantastic deal.

When buying secondhand fitness gear, always inspect it carefully for any wear and tear, damage, or missing parts. Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about the item’s history and why they’re selling it. And remember, a little friendly negotiation could land you an even better deal.

Get Fit Without Overspending

Your health is worth the investment, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to stay fit and active. The most important thing is to get moving every day. Start with one to two key pieces that match your interests, whether that’s walking shoes for daily strolls or resistance bands for strength training. Once you’re using these regularly, you can slowly build your home gym based on what you actually enjoy and use.