Second-hand equipment in the gym: Is used equipment really worth it? | ATLETICA

Sep 18, 2025

Especially during the start -up phase or when expanding a studio, the question often arises: Does it really need new equipment? Or is used studio equipment sufficient for a professional and economical start?

Used or refurbished equipment is booming. Whether through specialized providers or by acquiring inventory from closed studios , the second-use market is becoming increasingly attractive. But what do you need to watch out for? What pitfalls lurk — and when does second-use actually make sense?

In this article, you'll learn whether and when buying used fitness equipment is really worthwhile — and when you'd be better off opting for new, scalable equipment like that from ATLETICA .

1. Why second-hand equipment is trending

The reasons for the second-use trend are understandable:

Cost savings of up to 50 –70 % compared to new prices
Fast availability when transferring from running studios
Sustainability through resource conservation
Less capital commitment for start-ups and smaller operators

Especially for startups with tight budgets or pilot projects, using used equipment seems attractive. However, not everything that's cheaper is always the better choice.

2. The truth about “ used” – what’s behind it?

Not every used device is of equal quality. There are significant differences between:

Expression	Meaning
Needed	Directly from the previous owner, usually without inspection
Refurbished	Professionally overhauled & tested
Demo device	hardly used, often trade fair equipment or exhibition
Remaining stock / B-stock	unused, but possibly with minor defects

ATLETICA tip: Pay attention to the origin: private sale ≠ verified dealer .

3. Advantages of second-use devices

a) Affordable entry

Ideal for founders who need equipment with little start-up capital. Especially:

Cardio equipment ( e.g. B. Treadmills , ergometers )
simple power machines
Accessories such as mats , dumbbells , boxes

b) Availability

Available immediately from the right source – no long delivery times.

c) Sustainability factor

Environmentally friendly through reuse – especially for studios with “ Green Gym “ -Claim.

4. The disadvantages – and when you need to be careful

a) No guarantee or warranty

Many used devices are sold without a warranty – repairs are at your expense.

b) Technical defects & safety risks

Hidden damage (belts, bearings, electronics) can quickly become expensive – or even dangerous .

c) Missing spare parts & updates

Older devices are often no longer updateable or require special maintenance. This particularly applies to a.:

digital interfaces
Displays & Sensors
App compatibility

d) Inconsistent appearance

Different colors, models, wear and tear – the overall appearance of the studio appears restless and unprofessional.

e) Limited scalability

Second-use devices often cannot be expanded modularly, which makes the studio inflexible in the long term.

5. When second use is not worthwhile

At boutique studios with a high design and brand orientation
If you want to build a franchise with CI-compliant equipment
When opening a studio with high marketing demands (e.g. B. grand opening campaign)
If you need app-compatible digital devices (e.g. B. Cloud tracking, display control)
When financing through leasing or subsidy programs – many of which only apply to new devices

6. The middle way: Refurbished devices from certified providers

If second use, then professionally overhauled and checked .

Pay attention to:

CE marking & safety testing
Warranty (at least 6 months)
Documentation of repairs and tests
Accessibility of service & spare parts
Assembly & calibration service

ATLETICA doesn't offer used equipment— rather, it offers durable, modularly expandable equipment that's low-maintenance, CI-compatible, and scalable. In many cases , this is the more cost-effective long-term solution .

7. Calculation example: Used vs. new – is the savings worth it?

Scenario :
Studio equipment for 100 m² functional & strength area

option	Acquisition costs	Lifespan (estimated)	Repairs / Service	CI optics	Scalability
Used (private purchase)	approx. 18,000 €	3 years	unpredictable	No	No
Refurbished (Retailer)	approx. €25,000	5 years	partly incl.	Partially	conditional
New (ATLETICA)	approx. 32,000 €	8+ years	with service contract	Complete	Yes

Conclusion : Used devices save money in the short term – but can be expensive in the long term.

8. Conclusion: Second use can be useful – but must be carefully tested

Buying used saves money — but also carries more risk. Caution is especially advised when it comes to security-related devices or digital equipment. Used devices are worth it: