The best fitness centers feature a wide range of equipment, encompassing a variety of different movement types. However, fitness equipment is a big investment—one that needs to be maintained and repaired with time as equipment ages. If you own or operate a fitness facility, you might be wondering how often equipment needs to be replaced or updated.
The short answer? The frequency of replacing and upgrading fitness equipment varies based on equipment type. Certain kinds of fitness machines, equipment, and accessories need to be replaced or repaired more frequently. Here’s everything you need to know about updating the equipment in your gym.
Why Does Fitness Equipment Need to Be Replaced?
Over time, and with repeated use, all fitness equipment gets worn. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your fitness equipment, but eventually, it will wear down and need to be replaced.
There are a number of warning signs that it’s time to replace your equipment: machines that are frequently malfunctioning, equipment that looks tarnished and old, and upholstery that is cracked and faded. At a certain point, equipment can also become so worn and dysfunctional that it is unsafe to use and should be permanently retired.
Additionally, user experience is a big indicator of when it’s time to replace equipment. If your gym users ask about the same machine or piece of equipment over and over again, or regularly complain that something isn’t working, it might be time for an update.
From safety to performance to exerciser satisfaction, updating gym equipment is about more than just aesthetics. Over time, wear and tear can compromise both the function and safety of your machines.
Key reasons to replace or update fitness equipment:
- Exerciser safety: Broken or malfunctioning equipment increases the risk of injury.
- User experience: Exercisers expect modern, well-functioning machines.
- Technology upgrades: Outdated consoles or screens can signal a dated facility.
- Visual appeal: Faded upholstery, rust, or cracked padding can reflect poorly on your brand.
When Is Equipment No Longer Safe to Use?
There are also times when a piece of equipment should be permanently retired. Equipment can eventually become unsafe to use, so it is important to complete regular safety checks to minimize the risk of injury and to promptly remove access to equipment that is no longer safe to use.
It’s critical to recognize when a piece of equipment should be retired, not just repaired. Look out for:
- Repeated mechanical issues or shutdowns
- Broken or rusted components
- Cracks in frames or damaged welds
- Worn-out upholstery with exposed padding
- Unreliable resistance or tension levels
If any of these issues persist, even after regular maintenance, it’s likely time to replace the machine altogether.
How Often Should I Be Replacing Equipment?
Every machine, accessory, and piece of fitness equipment is different. Here’s a quick guide for how often to replace each:
Cardio Equipment (3-5 Years)
Cardio machines should be updated every three to five years, depending on their quality. High-quality cardio equipment that receives regular maintenance can usually last at least five years. Cardio equipment often has consoles that offer interactive technology experiences, such as touchscreens with streaming content, so it’s also important to monitor current trends and make sure your technology (or lack thereof) isn’t making your facility seem outdated.
Strength Training Equipment (7–15+ years)
When taken care of properly, some strength training equipment can last indefinitely. For example, plate-loaded strength equipment, selectorized strength units, benches, and racks can remain in use for many years with regular maintenance, and are often only updated once replacement parts are no longer available.
Upholstery may wear over time, but often can be replaced to give the existing strength piece new life.
Functional Fitness Frames (8+ years)
Functional fitness is very popular right now — and for good reason. Functional fitness frames, like the Escape Frames, are highly versatile pieces of equipment because they can be customized for functional, weighted, and suspension fitness.
Functional Fitness Accessories (1-3 years)
Functional fitness accessories, on the other hand, do not last as long. That’s because equipment like corebags, soft Plyoboxes, and Griprs are all intentionally designed with cushioned and soft materials to make them more accessible than traditional iron and steel equipment. Upholstered fabric materials can show signs of wear over time with repeated handling. Items like these generally need to be examined for signs of wear every year or so. As you find certain products starting to look worn, you might want to consider replacing them. Very popular items that get worn within the first few years are probably worth the investment to replace, since that’s a sign that your exercisers love to use them!
Can I Invest in “Evergreen” Fitness Content?
No piece of fitness equipment lasts forever, but you can choose to invest in equipment that connects to the internet and offers new content regularly. For example, the Peloton Bike for commercial gyms comes with multi-user software (unlimited account logins) that updates regularly with new content. It also connects to expert-led classes, guaranteeing users will have something fun and innovative to do every day.
Another interactive piece of equipment is the Aviron Rower. It’s a smart rowing machine that incorporates scenic virtual destinations, workout programs, fun games, competition leaderboards, and more. This catalog of digital content is regularly updated, meaning gym goers will always be entertained and challenged with the Aviron Rower.
How to Know It’s Time for an Upgrade
Even the best-maintained fitness equipment doesn’t last forever. But waiting too long to replace aging machines can cost your facility more than just repair bills, it can lead to frustrated exercisers, safety hazards, and a damaged reputation. The key is knowing when your equipment is no longer meeting the mark. If you’re noticing any of the following signs, it’s likely time to consider an upgrade:
- Frequent complaints or negative reviews
- Machines frequently “out of order”
- Exercisers abandoning older equipment for newer pieces
- Safety concerns or liability risks
- Inability to source replacement parts
Not Sure When to Update your Fitness Equipment? We’ve Got Your Back
Knowing when to update your equipment can be challenging. You don’t want to update too soon and lose out on machines that still have some life in them. On the other hand, if you wait too long to update your equipment you could be pushing people away from your gym. Finding the right balance is the key.
At ASF, we’re here to help. Reach out to us for a consultation, or more information about how to update your gym.
