If you’re one of the many people who enjoy working out at home, you’ve probably invested in a great piece of fitness equipment, like a treadmill. These types of machines are not cheap so it is in your best interest to take care of them so they last a long time.
Depending on the device you have, there are different ways to store your equipment and it can help to know what to look for when doing so. Whether you own an exercise bike, treadmill or rowing machine, there are ways to keep them running like new at no extra cost.
We spoke to a gym owner and personal trainer who knows a thing or two about gym equipment maintenance to take the guesswork out of it for you. If you own this equipment, make sure you do this to maintain it throughout the year.
Treadmills: Don’t despise the belt
Be sure to keep your treadmill belt clean and well maintained. Especially if you use the same sneakers for outdoor activities.
If you own a treadmill, you know that for it to run smoothly, you want the belt to stay smooth whether you are running, jogging or walking on it. Marshall Weber, certified personal trainer and owner of Functional Idaho Gym, recommends maintaining your treadmill every month. This also depends on how often you and anyone else in your household use the treadmill during the week. Other signs a treadmill needs TLC include a squeaky or squeaky belt.
“If you start to notice that your belt from the machine is melting or you feel like it’s slipping under your feet, that’s a strong sign that you need to slow down, because a well-maintained belt should feel smooth,” says Weber.
The good news is that you don’t need to hire a professional to service your treadmill. To learn how to lubricate your treadmill, you can do it yourself by following a YouTube tutorial — just make sure it follows your manufacturer’s instructions. Peloton, for example, offers its own treadmill maintenance tips.
Keep it clean and dust free
When cleaning your belt, don’t neglect the area underneath it. “It builds dust underneath, which people forget,” says Cara D’Orazio, a certified personal trainer, group fitness coach and sports conditioning specialist. Weber agrees, saying, “I recommend taking a reclined position, slide a light towel under the belt and let the machine run for a few seconds.” This will help remove dirt that is hidden under the belt.
Weber also advises keeping the treadmill clean after each use, especially if you use the same shoes outdoors as you do indoors, as they get dirty quickly.
Insert the belt
If you maintain your treadmill regularly, you should not need to replace its parts regularly. However, you may need to adjust your treadmill belt from time to time. “You need to check how tight the belt is and make sure it’s centered,” said Weber, because over time the belt may shift to the left or right. D’Orazio adds, “Some parts like the belt may need to be replaced every few years, especially if it looks worn or frayed around the edges.”
If you notice any problems with the motor or other electrical components of your treadmill, you may need to call the manufacturer to see if they will repair or replace it under your warranty.
Exercise bikes: Check your bolts
If you own an exercise bike, be sure to check the pedals and the resistance knob.
If you have a Peloton Bike or similar exercise bike, you should be keeping it. Weber says air bikes like Watt bikes, which use a fan to create resistance, need different attention than a spinning bike that uses a weighted flywheel.
“In general, checking the bolts monthly and wiping them down thoroughly after use should be sufficient,” recommends Weber.
Make sure the bike pedals are secure
You should also check and make sure your bike pedals are still secure and not loose. This is important if you wear clip-on shoes that attach to cycling cages.
“If the lower cleats look really worn, you have trouble getting in and out or if the pedal feels loose or doesn’t ‘grip’ the cleat, that could mean the pedal needs to be replaced,” warns D’Orazio.
Ignore the resistance knob
The resistance function of the bicycle or the knob on the bicycle should be checked periodically to ensure that it is working properly. “Sometimes check the resistance to make sure it still feels good,” advises D’Orazio. Signs an exercise bike needs repair or maintenance include clicking noises, misaligned resistance or wobbly pedals.
“That usually means something needs to be strengthened or replaced,” D’Orazio explained. If you notice anything unusual about the engine, contact your manufacturer.
Rowing machines: Listen for strange sounds
A rowing machine requires a small amount of maintenance but you should check it every month to make sure it is still working properly.
If you own a rowing machine, you probably appreciate that this machine doesn’t take up as much space as a bicycle or treadmill. Some designs allow you to fold it to save space.
“Of all the machines that a person can have, this is the best because it requires the least amount of maintenance,” said Weber. He recommends giving your rowing machine monthly checks and wiping it down after use. “If you hear strange sounds coming from the railway [the part where you sit] or a spinning wheel [the internal mechanism]then it may need some attention.”
Which may need to be replaced
If a rowing machine needs another part, it can be one of several things. “For a paddler, you may need to replace the strap, handle or bungee cord after a few years,” D’Orazio said, adding, “If the seat is not moving properly, the rollers may need to be replaced.”
As always, check with the manufacturer first to see how they can help with this repair, as it may be covered under your warranty.
Know the warranty policy of your device
Knowing your appliance’s warranty can save you money if you use it properly.
If you own these machines, it’s important to know your warranty in case you need a replacement part or a completely new machine. It helps to know which parts the manufacturer will replace and for how long.
Based on CNET’s fitness equipment reviews, below is an estimate of what a warranty would look like on an exercise bike, treadmill or rowing machine.
Treadmills
Some treadmills have a lifetime warranty, but the warranty on parts, frame, screen (if any) and performance may vary. For example, NordicTrack offers a lifetime warranty, but limits it to 10 years for the frame, 2 years for parts and 1 year for the tablet. Some brands, like Aviron, offer a 10- or 20-year warranty (depending on a monthly or annual membership), and Peloton offers a 5-year warranty on the frame and engine, but only 1 year on the touchscreen and some parts. Peloton maintains the same policy for all of its qualifying events.
You can also purchase additional coverage to extend your warranty with other manufacturers. The warranty will depend on the product and manufacturer, so before buying, make sure you are clear on its policy.
Exercise bikes
The length of the warranty for exercise bikes also varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Others, like BowFlex, offer 10 years for the frame and 3 years for mechanical parts and electronics. Others, like Speediance, offer 2-year screen coverage and similar features, but 1 year for wear and tear on seat or footrest replacements. You can purchase additional cover to extend your warranty.
Rowing machines
Most types of rowing machines offer similar warranties but there may be some differences depending on the type. The installation of products like Peloton and Hydrow only lasts for 1 year but if it is a very high maintenance machine, as the experts say, you may not need to worry about its longevity.
Like treadmills and exercise bikes, many companies offer extended warranties for extra protection.
