6 Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid with Home Workout Equipment

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many former gym rats to start working out at home. Even with public gyms starting to reopen, many people just aren’t quite comfortable with this scenario yet. If you fall into this camp, setting up a home gym is a great solution! 

Although it’s a bit of an investment, it’s a good one. Home workout equipment that’s regularly used generally lasts between 7 and 12 years. That is, of course, assuming that you take good care of it. 

This is easy to do, but you would be surprised how many people don’t do it right. Little things like not cleaning your gym equipment or failing to set a gym maintenance budget can really shorten the equipment’s life expectancy.

Don’t worry, though, once we’re through here you’ll know about all the mistakes you need to avoid and you’ll feel like a gym maintenance pro!

Mistake 1: Failing to Read the Manuals

Okay, we know it’s not the most exciting thing you’ll ever read, but it’s always a good idea to review your users’ manual at least once. You’ll usually find that they contain important information about best practices for maintenance and care.

If you can’t locate the manuals or you didn’t receive them when buying secondhand equipment, then you can usually find them online.

Mistake 2: Not Wiping Down Machines After Use

When you’re working out at home, you might think that it’s not as important to wipe down your equipment after you use it. However, you should still do this, even if you’re the only one who is using it.

The perspiration you leave on the equipment can dry out the padding. Dust and dirt can also accumulate on the machines, which can lead to damage.

Always use a soft cloth and a water-based disinfectant or non-abrasive cleaning agent. Otherwise, if you use harsh chemicals, it can do more harm than good.

Bonus points if you occasionally use a leather or vinyl condition on the pads. This will keep the material from cracking, which will prolong the equipment’s life span.

Mistake 3: Forgetting to Lubricate Your Equipment

It’s a good idea to lubricate all equipment with moving parts at least once a month. This will alleviate friction and reduce the wear and tear on your machines. Whether you’ve purchased used cardio machines or brand new top-of-the-line equipment, keeping up with lubrication will make a huge difference in the way your equipment performs.

Some machines are self-lubricating, which means you’ll only need to check them once in a while. However, most other machines require regular intervention to ensure that lack of lubrication doesn’t cause long-term damage.  

Mistake 4: Failing to Inspect Your Machines

Often, the wear and tear that occurs on gym equipment happens slowly over time. This makes it harder to notice unless you’re really looking for it.

Make sure you can be proactive about maintaining your equipment by giving it all a once-over at least once a month. It’s a great idea to do this while you’re doing the monthly lubrication. If you’re using the equipment and it doesn’t feel right, then always inspect it immediately.

When you’re checking your equipment, pay close attention to things like resistance bands and cables that might start to weaken or fray. If these things break while you’re using them, you can end up with a serious injury!

Mistake 5: Skimping on Parts

When you find a problem that your need to repair, you might be tempted to try to do it as cheaply as possible. However, failing to use genuine replacement parts is a big mistake!

Replacement parts made by the manufacturer are guaranteed to fit correctly and will ensure that the machine functions properly. This is a safety issue and can also impact the equipment’s life span.

Off-brand parts might be less expensive, but they don’t give you the same peace of mind. In this case, the potential drawbacks far outweigh the little bit of money you’ll save.

It’s also important to know your limits when it comes to repairs. While some minor repairs are easy DIY projects, others are best left to the pros.

Mistake #6 Forgetting About the Software

Today, many fitness machines are complex pieces of equipment that contain advanced technology. For example, your cardio equipment might measure your speed, distance traveled your heart rate, and your estimated calorie burn. 

Sometimes this equipment needs software updates. If the manufacturer allows you to register as the owner, you may receive emails when this occurs.

You’ll also want to protect the equipment from getting wet so that the circuits won’t corrode. Obviously, you can’t avoid sweating on it, but try to make sure nothing spills and always wipe moisture away as soon as possible.

If you start to have technical problems with your software, make sure you address it right away. Much like a tooth cavity, this is a situation that will rarely go away on its own.

Find All the Best Home Workout Equipment

Now that you know how easy it is to take care of your home workout equipment, you might have started thinking about picking up a few new pieces.

Whether you’re thinking about picking up some gorgeous custom workout equipment or you’re looking for high-quality second handpieces, we’ve got you covered! Browse through our inventory today!