Intro – Why fitness gear discounts are worth it
Hey friends! Are you looking to get in shape this year but don’t want to break the bank on expensive fitness gear? I feel you. Quality equipment can really take your workout to the next level, but the price tags at fancy retailers can be downright discouraging. The good news is, with the right strategies, you can save big on the fitness items you need without sacrificing on value.
Scoring sweet discounts on fitness gear is definitely worth the effort. Obviously, you’ll get to keep more cash in your wallet which is always nice. But affordable prices also mean you can buy more gear to really build up an awesome home gym. Having a well-stocked workout space makes it so much easier to get motivated to exercise regularly. And when you feel excited about your equipment, you’ll be way more likely to put it to use!
Finding excellent deals takes some work, but I promise it pays off. To get you started, here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned for saving money on quality fitness equipment and accessories:
Scope out sales schedules and plan ahead
One of the best ways to save is to shop at the right times. Retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and Walmart often run huge fitness sales during peak seasons like the holidays and New Year’s resolution rush. Amazon Prime Day and Back to School sales also see steep discounts on workout gear. Make a note of these annual sale events and plan to stock up on what you need during these promo periods. Signing up for email lists and alerts will help you jump on the best deals as soon as they go live.
Combo coupons with sales for extra savings
To maximize your discount, look for ways to stack savings opportunities. For example, lots of retailers offer promo codes and coupons that you can apply on top of already marked-down sale prices. Brick and mortar stores may let you use percentage-off coupons along with current sales. Online shops will provide coupon codes you can enter at checkout for extra discount percentages off your subtotal. RetailMeNot and Honey browser extensions are great for finding applicable coupon codes for extra savings.
Shop budget-friendly brands
When looking for affordable fitness gear, know where to find quality stuff at lower prices. Brands like ProsourceFit, Sunny Health and Fitness, and Gaiam sell equipment and accessories designed for home use at budget-friendly price points. You can find cardio machines, free weights, yoga mats, foam rollers, and more for much less than the flashy name brands. Searching sites like Amazon, Wayfair and Overstock by brand is an easy way to spot good deals.
Buy discounted gift cards to save on splurges
If you have your eye on higher-end gear from brands like Peloton, Theragun, or Rogue, look into discounted gift cards to save big. Sites like GiftCardGranny or Raise allow you to purchase gift cards at up to 20% off the face value. You can score $500 worth of credit for $400 or less. Then, use that discounted gift card towards your splurge item and get it for much cheaper than retail. Just make sure the retailer accepts gift cards for the item you want.
Don’t pay full price out of season
The off season is the perfect time to score fitness deals. Retailers will deeply discount exercise gear in winter and early spring when demand is lower. Keep an eye out for sales on popular summer items like bike trainers, running shoes, hydration packs, and swim gear during the fall and winter months. Cold weather workout staples like treadmills, rowing machines and ski machines tend to get marked down in the warmer months when most people aren’t thinking about exercising inside.
Ask about price matching policies
If you spot a good deal from a retailer you hadn’t originally planned to buy from, it’s worth checking if your preferred store will match the price. Many major retailers like Dick’s, Academy, and Walmart offer some form of price matching as long as the items are identical and currently in stock elsewhere. All you have to do is ask! This policy helps guarantee you always get the best possible savings.
Sign up for cashback and rewards
Cashback and rewards programs are an effortless way to save on fitness gear purchases. Retailers like Rakuten give you a percentage of your purchase price back in cash rewards. Credit cards like Chase Freedom or Citi DoubleCash offer cashback bonuses on top of any discounts you receive. Amazon’s rewards Visa gives you points on purchases that add up to gift cards for future shopping. These programs put money back in your pocket for things you’d buy anyway!
Take advantage of retailer apps
Download your favorite retailer’s mobile apps and keep an eye out for special app-only discounts. Stores will frequently offer promo codes and additional percentage-off deals exclusively through their smartphone apps. For example, the Dick’s Sporting Goods app regularly provides coupon codes for 10-20% off certain brands or categories. Active app users can score some serious savings only available on mobile.
Shop used and refurbished
If you’re comfortable buying used, check out trusted sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp for majorly marked down fitness gear in lightly used condition. Lots of people re-sell quality equipment for cheap once they stop using it regularly. You can also find great certified refurbished options on Amazon and eBay that function like new for a fraction of the price. Just inspect items closely before purchasing.
Wait for your favorite items to go on sale
If there’s a particular product you really want but can’t get for cheap, exercise some patience. Add it to a wish list and keep an eye out for price drops during sales events. Lots of retailers let you check price history on items to determine the best times to buy based on past discounts. Sites like CamelCamelCamel track Amazon price data over time so you can pounce when your must-have gear goes on sale.
Avoid overpaying for flashy features
The most expensive exercise equipment isn’t necessarily the best, especially if you won’t use certain fancy features. Get clear on the must-have attributes vs. the nice-to-haves when comparison shopping. Overpaying for bells and whistles you won’t use or need is silly. Focus on finding quality basics that allow you to get workouts in affordably.
Consider financing options carefully
Some retailers let you finance big fitness purchases, but double check the terms before signing up. Make sure to understand interest rates, payment deadlines, early payoff options, and penalties for missed payments. While financing can make expensive gear more affordable upfront, high interest costs or rigid terms may cost you more in the long run. Weigh both price and fine print before committing.
Maximize limited-time discount opportunities
When you find a truly unbeatable limited-time deal, take full advantage! For example, if a retailer is offering 60% off all online orders for one day only, don’t just add one or two items to your cart. Make a comprehensive wish list ahead of time so you can stock up on everything you need while the crazy good sale is happening. This will ensure you get the biggest savings possible from short-lived promotions.
See friends, scoring awesome discounts on your favorite fitness gear is very doable with the right strategies. What bargain deals will you be hunting for during the upcoming sales seasons? Let me know in the comments! I’m always down to chat fitness and share money-saving hacks.
Tips for finding the best sales
When it comes to scoring fitness gear deals, timing matters my friends. You gotta know when and where the big sales happen to cash in on the steepest discounts. Luckily, gearheads like us can use some insider strategies to always find the best bang for our buck.
For example, January is like the holy grail month for exercise equipment and activewear deals. All the major retailers run huge New Year’s resolution sales to lure folks fulfilling their fitness resolutions. I’m talking 50-60% off or more on everything from weights and yoga pants to treadmills and spin bikes. So come January 1st, you bet I’m glued to my computer ready to virtually shop like a VIP. The discounts are just too good to pass up!
And you better believe I’ve already got November marked on my calendar for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Like clockwork, all the fan favorites like Academy Sports and Dick’s roll out absolutely wild deals leading up to the holidays. We’re talking doorbusters on cardio machines, buy-one-get-one-free on apparel, and site-wide percentages off. It’s a bargain hunter’s paradise!
Here’s a pro tip: Be sure to get on email lists for the stores you frequent. That way, you’ll get early sneak peeks at upcoming sales and spammed with one-time use promo codes. A little annoying? Sure. But saving $100 on a new Concept 2 rower makes it all worth it if you ask me.
If there’s a specific item you’ve had your eye on for a while, use camelcamelcamel or other price tracking sites. You can see when it typically goes on sale based on past data, then jump on it as soon as it hits your target price point. A little price history stalking goes a long way.
Don’t sleep on random one-day flash sales either. Retailers will sometimes do a 1-day 50% off fitness event to move old inventory. So if you see a 24 hour flash sale pop up, peruse ASAP because the clock is ticking! Scored some new Hokas for 50% off last year thanks to one of those shorties.
Oh, and any time I need running shoes or athletic apparel, I always scan the clearance racks first. The discontinued colorways and last season’s items get marked way down but work just as well. I actually prefer the super wild color combos you find on the clearance wall. Makes my runs feel more fun and creative.
While I’m always down to pay full price for essentials like my pre-workout and protein powder, you better believe I wait for sales before dropping big bucks on equipment. A little strategic patience goes a long way. I know that specialty treadmill I want will eventually go on sale, so I stalk the item page and reviews until it hits my target discount range. Just make a gear wish list so you’re ready to pull the trigger when the deal goes live.
And don’t overlook the value of buying used my friends. Sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can be goldmines for quality fitness loot at crazy low prices. You just have to hunt for the diamonds in the rough. I once scored a lightly used TRX system for $50 flat – an absolute steal!
Of course, buying used gear comes with some risks. Definitely give the item a thorough inspection and test before forking over any cash. And don’t be afraid to negotiate – a lot of sellers just want the stuff gone so they’ll take reasonable lower offers.
Lastly, if you want new items but need help affording bigger purchases, consider third party financing or 0% APR credit cards. I financed my Peloton bike at 0% through Affirm and just paid it off slowly over time. Just be careful about shady financing terms and ridiculous interest rates though.
Well friends, those are my best tips for sniffing out epic fitness gear deals! Let me know if any strategies worked for scoring your holy grail activewear or equipment. Nothing gets me more pumped than swapping sale-shopping stories and highlighting budget wins!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article focusing on top retailers with fitness discounts:
Top retailers offering fitness discounts
When it comes to finding fitness deals, it pays to know where to look my friends. Not all retailers are created equal when it comes to sales, so I’ll share some of my favorites for scoring sweet discounts on activewear and exercise gear.
Hands down, Dick’s Sporting Goods needs to be your go-to. Their clearance section is stuffed with majorly marked down apparel and equipment. I’m talking 70% off or more! Dick’s also runs huge seasonal sales events, so make sure to get on their email list. And their coupons stack with existing discounts for extra savings which is clutch.
Don’t sleep on Walmart’s fitness section either. Their low everyday prices alone make Walmart a budget-friendly destination. But then they turn around and run rollbacks, flash sales, and other promos offering up to half off or more. I’ve scored 5 lb dumbbells for 50% off and snagged a new yoga mat for only $10 during their fitness sales before.
Academy Sports is another all star when it comes to exercise gear deals. Their weekly ad is jam-packed with discounted activewear essentials and equipment. Academy also does big holiday weekend sales where you can stack storewide or department discounts with clearance items. Your savings can really multiply fast there!
Now I know Amazon can feel overwhelming with so many product options. But their fitness savings are legit thanks to the magical combo of daily deals, coupons, Warehouse discounts and Lightning offers. Plus Prime members get early access to discounts which is clutch for snagging bargains.
For more boutique type fitness fare, keep an eye on Athleta’s semi-annual sales to save on premium leggings and tops. Lululemon’s We Made Too Much section offers discounts on their lineup of yoga and running apparel as well. And Fabletics is already budget-friendly, but they run 40-50% off promos all the time making it even more affordable.
When I’m looking for serious fitness equipment for my home gym, Costco and Sam’s Club are hard to beat. Their exercise gear selections may not be huge, but the discounts are. We’re talking rowers for hundreds off, treadmills includes delivery and setup, and accessories galore bundled in value sets.
And don’t forget to check out Target’s fitness deals! Their All in Motion gear is super affordable already, but goes on sale for up to 25% off regularly. And they run extra discounts on top brands like Nike, Reebok and Champion too. Stack those Cartwheel savings for winning prices.
For you CrossFit junkies and powerlifters, keep an eye on Rogue Fitness’ clearance section and the Sales & Deals page. They deeply discount barbells, bumper plates, shoes and more multiple times per week. Rogue’s scratch and dent section is also gold – barely noticeable flaws mean big price chops!
Now if you’re looking for budget-friendly alternatives to premium brands, Amazon has a ton of quality options. Trideer, Sunny Health & Fitness, and Prosource on Amazon all make workout staples at super affordable retail prices already. Watch for extra coupon deals on top.
And let’s not forget everyone’s favorite discount sporting goods store – Ross! You can find major brand athletic shoes and apparel for up to 60% or more off the typical retail price. Selection varies by location so pop in regularly to scan for gems. I always make a point to do a full lap anytime I’m near a Ross.
Lastly, keep an eye on fitness sites like SwimOutlet and BackCountry for seasonal sales in their wheelhouse. SwimOutlet does big discount promos on suits and gear ahead of summer. While BackCountry slashed prices on cold weather activities like snowboarding equipment and apparel in winter.
Well friends, those are my top spots for getting more bang for my workout buck. Hopefully you discovered a few new retailers to keep on your radar. Let me know who I missed or if you have any insider shopping secrets of your own to share! Happy deal hunting out there fitness fam.
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article with strategies for stacking savings on fitness gear:
Strategies for stacking savings
When it comes to saving big on fitness gear, don’t stop at the first discount you see my friends. To really maximize your savings, you’ve gotta stack ’em high like pancakes. Here are some of my favorite ways to pile on the discounts for sweat-worthy prices.
First things first – sign up for those retailer emails and pay attention to the promo codes! Stores are always dishing out percentages off, $10 off $50, free shipping and other juicy discounts to their email subscribers. So be sure to have a coupon code loaded and ready to sweeten any sale price you’re eyeing up.
Similarly, download all the major store apps and enable notifications. Oftentimes stores will run app-exclusive deals that don’t get promoted elsewhere. I can’t count how many times a Dick’s Sporting Goods app coupon has saved me an extra 10-20% automatically at checkout. Gotta have those mobile savings on lock.
Once you’ve got any available coupon codes loaded up, it’s time to shop the sales and clearances, my friend. Most major discounts will be tagged as “extra % off” meaning you can combine them with other current promotions. This is how you really get the prices tumbling down.
For example, let’s say Academy Sports is having a 20% off fitness sale right now. I can shop that sale, and then get an extra 15% off by using a coupon code they emailed me. Boom – 35% off and feeling fine! Now that’s what I call savings.
If you need a big ticket item, also keep an eye out for additional limited-time storewide discounts. I saved an extra $100 on a new treadmill by buying it during a President’s Day 20% off everything sale with the treadmills already being 30% off. Math right there.
Don’t forget about cashback sites either! Ebates, Rakuten, Honey and others will give you percentage cashback that stacks with any discounts you receive. A little extra coffee money is nice. Just remember to shop through the cashback portal for it to track.
If you have a store credit card, use it strategically even if just for one purchase. Lots of them provide an additional first-time user discount like 15% off or $25 off $100. Factor that in on top of your other savings for an even lower price.
Once you’re ready to check out, be sure to look for any available promo codes for free shipping too! Getting your heavy power rack or treadmill shipped free is a nice bonus. RetailMeNot and other coupon sites make it easy to find those magic shipping codes.
If you’re buying something that caters to a certain season, aim to purchase during the off-season for stackable sale prices. For example, snag snowboarding gear and winter apparel on clearance in the spring. Or grab swimsuits in the fall after back to school sales slow down.
Take the savings up another notch by opting for gently used items when you can. Sites like Poshmark and Mercari let you find quality used fitness gear at a discount, then you can use promo codes for first time buyers to take a percentage off on top.
Lastly, keep an eye out for bundling opportunities. Amazon offers lots of deals where buying certain items together is cheaper than separately. So add useful accessories like adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands, or a workout bench to your cart with big fitness gear purchases.
Well friends, now you’ve got the inside scoop on piling up fitness finds for cheap. Let me know if you have any other creative ways to stack savings at your favorite stores. We’ll keep this frugal fitness party going!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article covering top sale events for fitness deals:
Sale events to watch for
One of the best ways to save big on fitness gear is to shop during the major sales events, friends. The discounts get deep during certain peak seasons, so here are some top sale periods to mark on your calendar.
Hands down, the holiday season from November through December is prime time for fitness deals. Retailers are trying hard to hit their annual sales goals before the new year, so they roll out some truly epic promotions.
I’m talking Black Friday doorbusters on everything from sneakers to treadmills, Cyber Monday site wide sales with stackable coupons, and crazy Christmas discounts on fitness gadgets and apparel. The savings are out of control!
Another major fitness sale season is January, my friends. All the “new year, new you” resolutions drive retailers to run steep discounts on equipment, activewear, and gym memberships. Shop the first two weeks of January for rock bottom prices.
Amazon Prime Day has also become a huge opportunity for fitness deals lately. The 48 hour sale event in July dishes out lightning discounts on top brands like Garmin watches, Under Armour clothes, and big ticket equipment. Gotta have that Prime membership ready!
In the springtime, be on the lookout for discounts on warm weather outdoor fitness gear. Retailers will offer sales on items like hydration packs, trail shoes, outdoor watches, dry fit apparel and more ahead of summer.
I also routinely save big during the Back to School sales each August on workout essentials. Retailers advertise discounts on athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories targeting students – but anyone can score the deals!
Department stores like Macy’s and Kohl’s run huge seasonal sales events which often include their fitness gear and apparel. I watch for their Black Friday in July events, Labor Day sales and Memorial Day promos to stock up.
While not always advertised loudly, stellar fitness offers can be found during Presidents’ Day weekend, Columbus Day weekend, and other smaller federal holidays too. Worth keeping on your radar!
The key is signing up for alerts and emails from your favorite retailers so you know when every major sale is happening. Big sale weekends like Memorial Day and Presidents Day are great times to buy big ticket items like adjustable dumbbells, treadmills and exercise bikes.
If you’re not in a huge rush, also watch for anniversary and annual sales from top brands. For example, Under Armour runs a huge June event in sync with their founding each year offering deep discounts sitewide.
Oh, and anytime your favorite athletic brand launches a new product line or collection, keep an eye out for a sale on last season’s items. Making room for new product means old stuff goes on deep discount.
Lastly, pay attention to the fitness deals at warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s. They run super saver special buys events on seasonal items like treadmills in winter and water gear in summer. Big savings if you have a membership.
Well friends, now you’ve got an inside look at the best fitness sale events throughout the year. Let the deal hunting begin! Be sure to share any epic finds in the comments.
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about using coupons and cashback with fitness sales:
Using coupons & cashback with sales
My frugal friends know the key to super savings is stacking discounts whenever possible. So when big fitness gear sales roll around, be sure to combo coupons and cashback for the best value.
Signing up for email lists from your favorite retailers is clutch for gaining access to all the latest promo codes. Stores send out percentages off, $10 off $50, free shipping and more on the reg to subscribers.
Definitely take a spin through the clearance section first when shopping to find already marked down items. Then you can take that discounted price even lower by tacking on a coupon code at checkout for extra savings.
Pay attention to whether any coupons or promo codes have exclusions too. Some might limit you to full price items only or exclude certain brands. You want to find the stackable codes without restrictions to really maximize value.
Once you’ve loaded up applicable coupon codes, don’t forget to shop via the cashback portals like Rakuten, Honey, and TopCashback. They partner with major retailers to give you a percentage of your purchase price back in cash rewards.
For example, let’s say I buy $200 worth of fitness gear from Dick’s Sporting Goods, and they’re offering $20 off $100 plus 8% cashback through Rakuten right now. I’d get $20 off instantly from my promo code, then get another $16 deposited to my Rakuten account from the 8% cashback once my purchase is verified.
Amazon is another great example. They offer tons of promos through the site, then you can stack marketplace or cashback rewards on top. I’m obsessed with my Honey Gold rewards stacking up.
Around major sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, cashback rates often increase too. So you can maximize extra savings by shopping big fitness purchases during peak discount periods.
Oh, and be on the lookout for first time user promo codes when signing up for cashback programs. Lots of them offer signup bonuses like $10 free cashback after your first qualifying purchase. Cha-ching!
For big ticket items, also consider using a credit card that offers bonus cashback on certain categories if you can pay it off quickly. There are several cards that give 3-5% back on sporting goods stores or online retail purchases.
Whenever I need new running shoes, I bust out my Chase Freedom card since they do 5% cashback on athletic store purchases quarterly. Just another easy way to discount quality gear.
If you prefer to finance bigger fitness buys, check for coupon codes on the payment plans too. Affirm, Afterpay and other financing options will run promos for first time customers like $25 off your purchase over $100 when you sign up.
And be sure to look for stackable discounts on shipping when possible. Lots of retailers offer free 2-day shipping once you hit a minimum order value – use that to your advantage to dodge shipping fees on big orders.
At checkout, you’ve gotta get through all the retailer prompts to apply promos, cashback, and coupons so the discounts all compound. But taking a minute to do this could easily save you $50 or more in many cases.
Well friends, now you’re equipped to expertly stack savings like a champ on your next fitness haul. Let me know if you have any other clever ways to combo deals for max value. Happy shopping and keep that workout budget in check!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article covering recommended budget fitness brands:
Recommended budget fitness brands
Scoring sweet deals on fitness gear is much easier when you know where to find quality stuff at budget prices, friends. Check out these affordable brands I recommend for getting more bang for your workout buck.
Hands down, my top recommendation is ProsourceFit. Their exercise equipment is high quality but without the outrageous brand name upcharge. I’m talking super sturdy power racks, all-in-one home gyms, and serious lifting platforms all under $500.
Another go-to is Trideer on Amazon. Their spin bikes, rowing machines, and ellipticals have thousands of good reviews and cost several hundred dollars less than the competitors. A basic magnetic resistance spin bike for just over $200? Yes please!
I also love Sunny Health & Fitness for affordable at-home cardio options. Whether you need a folding treadmill, exercise bike, or rowing machine, Sunny has budget-friendly choices with great performance.
Gaiam is my top choice for yoga essentials on a budget. Their extra thick yoga mats cost just $20 versus $100 for the name brands. And their yoga blocks, straps, bolsters, and other accessories are super cheap but good quality.
For cheap but cute activewear, I swear by 90 Degree Reflex on Amazon. Their colorful leggings are buttery soft, squat-proof, and only $25. And their tops are all under $35 and made of quality moisture wicking material that holds up over time.
Another yoga and fitness apparel brand I love is ODODOS. They make fun printed leggings, sports bras, tank tops, and more for like half the price of mainstream brands but just as cute and functional.
If you need bargain workout shoes, Ryka and New Balance both make very affordable options in the $50-75 range. The models may be a season behind, but they hold up great and function just as well as new releases.
For home weights, yes4all offers an amazing value selection on Amazon. We’re talking adjustable dumbbell sets, kettlebells, resistant bands, medicine balls and more all for super reasonable prices. No need to pay 3X more for brand name.
Retrospec also makes awesome budget-friendly fitness accessories like foam rollers, ab wheels, lifting straps, and more cool gadgets. Everything is modern, stylish, and priced at just $10-25 bucks.
Lastly, Mirafit and Weider are two more affordable brands that make high quality power racks, Olympic weight benches, and other strength training staples. Shop their selections for hundreds less than premium brands but the same performance.
Well friends, now you’ve got plenty of budget-friendly fitness brands on your radar to score quality without blowing your budget. Let me know any other cheap but awesome finds for your home gym or workout wardrobe!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about quality fitness gear worth paying full price for:
Quality gear worth paying full price
Scoring sweet deals feels great, but there are some fitness items truly worth paying full retail price for friends. Here are the top quality pieces I recommend buying at whatever the cost.
First up – a legit Olympic weightlifting barbell. A good steel bar can handle hundreds of pounds in plates without bending and has those perfectly spun sleeves for quick rotations. Rogue Fitness and Eleiko make some of the best.
For serious powerlifters or CrossFitters, investing in a high-end weightlifting belt is also clutch. The thick and stiff leather construction offers unmatched support for heavy squats and cleans. Brands like Inzer, Pioneer, and Best Belts are the cream of the crop.
Another must-have is a decent lifting platform if you lift at home. Quality composite platforms protect your floors and provide a stable, perfectly flat surface for squatting and benching huge weight. Again Rogue makes the gold standard.
Also, you gotta have top notch Olympic weight plates in my opinion. No room for cheap bumpers that crack and bend over time when you’re repping big weight. Again, Rogue Hi-Temps or Eleiko bumpers are worth every penny.
For runners, investing in a flagship GPS watch is a no-brainer to me. Accurate pace tracking, cadence metrics, and advanced training features are absolute game changers. Go for Garmin’s Fenix or Forerunner lines or Coros Apex Pro.
Serious athletes know recovery tools like massage guns and compression systems are difference makers too. The rapid percussion and calibrated compression of brands like Theragun and NormaTec provide clinical-level recovery you really feel.
When it comes to cycling, a premium triathlon or time trial bike is also justified in my book. Brands like Cervelo, Trek, and Specialized engineer groundbreaking aerodynamics and control into their high performance rides.
For home cardio machines, you can feel a huge difference upgrading to commercial-grade equipment from TRUE, Precor or Octane. Their construction quality, responsiveness, and durability completely blow away consumer models.
And for golfers, investing in a professional club fitting and custom built set is 100% worth it. Dialing in your club specs based on your swing produces incredible consistency and performance improvements off the tee.
Lastly, paying more for a personal trainer who specializes in your goals like powerlifting, running, or general fitness can accelerate results. Their expertise designing tailored programming easily justifies the price.
Now I totally get that high-end fitness gear isn’t accessible or necessary for everyone. But after trying budget options for some key pieces, I learned some things are truly worth their premium price tag if they align with your training needs and budget allows!
Creating a savings wishlist
One of my top tips for scoring sweet deals on fitness gear is creating a specific wishlist to shop from when sales roll around, friends.
I use the Notes app on my phone to easily compile an ongoing list of the equipment, accessories, and apparel I’m hoping to pick up discounted throughout the year. That way, I’m ready to pounce when I spot a good deal.
For example, lets say I know I want to upgrade my home gym with a new power rack, Olympic weight set, and adjustable bench this year. I’ll add the specifics of what I’m looking for to my wishlist so I’m not scrambling when special sales pop up.
I try to note key features, brands, price range, and retailers to buy from for each item. This helps me identify the best discounts more quickly when I’m deal hunting. No time wasted hemming and hawing!
Don’t forget about activewear and footwear either. I’m always adding new stylish leggings, sports bras, tops, and shoes I’d love to grab on sale as I discover them throughout the normal shopping year.
And if there are fancy fitness gadgets you’ve had your eye on – recovery tools, wearables, electronics, etc – put ’em on the list! No need to pay full price if you can wait for a holiday deal or coupon code.
I also think about workout problems I’m facing that new gear could help fix. For example, I added “hydration vest for summer running” after struggling to carry water on long training runs last year.
Periodically review your savings wishlist to prioritize the most important or expensive items at the top. That way if a limited time sale pops up, you can grab your top needs first.
Around major sale events, I’ll vet my list against upcoming promos and advertisements. Most retailers preview deals ahead of time so you can make plans.
And I always add options at different budget levels if possible. Have a dream item in mind? Put it on the list. But also add more affordable alternatives in case that hot ticket item doesn’t see a steep enough discount.
Don’t forget to update your savings wishlist throughout the year as well. Maybe you changed your training focus or bought something impulse and no longer need a planned purchase. Keep the list current!
I like to think through the full year of birthdays, holidays and personal goals to identify wishlist items too. For example, I added a new tennis racket for summer and wireless headphones for my fall marathon training.
Lastly, keep an eye on retailer clearance sections for wishlist items all year round. Sometimes you can score huge savings buying last season’s items well before major sales even hit.
So friends, now you’ve got the inside scoop on creating an organized, evergreen wishlist to optimize your fitness savings all year long. No more forgetting needs only to impulse buy later. Let the deal hunting commence!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article covering popular discounted fitness items:
Popular discounted fitness items
Certain activewear, equipment, and accessories see steep discounts more often than others, friends. Here are some of the most popular fitness finds I routinely get on sale.
First up – running shoes! Brands like Brooks, Saucony, New Balance, and Nike refresh their shoe lines so frequently that last season’s models always go on sale. I track wishlist shoes and buy once they hit 50% off or more.
Fitness trackers and sports watches are another hot category for deals. Fitbits, Garmins, and Polar models are discounted heavily at big retail events like Prime Day and Black Friday. Time to upgrade your wearable!
I also regularly save on blenders when I need to restock my protein powder supplement stash. Vitamix, Ninja, NutriBullet, and other blenders see major marks downs during peak deal seasons.
Apparel clearance sections are jam packed with leggings, tops, shorts, and sports bras at 50% off or more once new product lines roll out. I stock up on quality workout staples for cheap.
Popular at-home cardio machines like treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and rowing machines are always hugely discounted around the holidays and January fitness sales.
Big box stores in particular like Walmart and Dick’s offer amazing deals on budget yoga essentials like mats, blocks, and hand towels a few times per year.
The same goes for budget-friendly strength training items like resistance bands, ab wheels, foam rollers and core sliders. Easy to find under $10 when sales hit!
Pre-workout, protein powder, protein bars and other popular supplements see buy-one-get-one type offers from supplement retailers constantly. I only restock when discounted.
Amazon regularly discounts its AmazonBasics basic neoprene dumbbells and kettlebells, especially when new sets with additional weight options release.
Bigger home gym equipment like power racks, Olympic barbells, and adjustable benches are often marked down for major holiday sales events.
And seasonal sporting goods like bikes in winter or ski gear in summer are hugely discounted off-season. Patience pays for $500+ purchases!
Lastly, fitness electronics like wireless headphones for running, heart rate monitors, and fitness trackers are hot ticket Cyber Monday and holiday deals every single year. Huge value opportunity!
So next time you need popular activewear, equipment, or accessories, be patient and search for sales my frugal friends. No need to pay full price for the most in-demand fitness items!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about saving on fitness accessories:
Saving on fitness accessories
Scoring discounts on fitness accessories like water bottles, gear bags, and workout gadgets helps maximize your savings friends. Here are some tips for accessorizing on a budget.
First up – take advantage of free accessory bundles! Lots of retailers offer free bags, water bottles, or gadgets when you spend over a certain amount. For example, Dick’s will bundle a string bag and shaker cup with a $100 protein purchase.
Speaking of water bottles and shakers, they are easily found on clearance racks for cheap once new styles release. Same goes for popular accessories like foam rollers, resistance bands, and core sliders – buy previous seasons on sale.
Department store seasonal sales are great ways to save on yoga mats, hand towels, headbands, and other studio staples for less. T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s also get tons of name brand fitness accessories at discount.
For high end accessories, look for discounted gift cards online to save on splurges. Get a $100 Theragun gift card for $80, then use it on a massage gun you’ve been eyeing up.
Amazon is packed with affordable accessories from budget brands like JBM, Tribe, and Heathyoga. We’re talking $5 yoga straps, $10 vibrating foam rollers, and sub-$20 starter sets.
Don’t pay full price on fitness trackers like Fitbits when new models release. Older models get discounted heavily. Same goes for popular running watches when new editions drop.
Wireless headphones and bluetooth earbuds for workouts are always getting discounted somewhere. Check Samsung, Beats, Jaybird and Amazon for rotating sales on sport headphones.
For starters, beginner sets like dumbbells, resistance loops, and kettlebells are easy to find on sale. Retailers discount sets to attract new gym-goers trying to get in shape.
Sign up for sports retailer rewards programs for bonus discounts on accessories.fanatics and Under Armour offer free shipping, athlete discounts, and cashback for members.
Scour sites like Poshmark and Mercari for major brand accessories at huge discounts thanks to secondhand resellers. You can find like new condition gear for cheap.
Ask for coveted accessories as gifts for birthdays and holidays if you don’t urgently need to buy yourself. No better discount than free gifts from loved ones!
Well friends, now you’re armed with savings tips for fitness accessories. Let me know if you have any other clever ideas for discounting workout gear!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about buying used and refurbished fitness gear:
Buying used and refurbished options
Used and refurbished fitness items can score you enormous savings if you’re comfortable going secondhand friends. Here are my top tips for scoring quality pre-owned gear.
For starters, check out Facebook Marketplace in your area for great local deals on used equipment like treadmills, spin bikes, and home gym systems. Lots of barely-used steals pop up for hundreds less than retail.
Craigslist is another source of local secondhand deals, but it takes more digging. Exercise patience scrolling for discounted finds and be ready to move quickly before someone else snags them.
eBay is jam packed with affordable used fitness wearables, accessories, gear, and equipment with buyer protection. Filter for new and pre-owned condition to find the best discounts.
Amazon Warehouse has amazing deals on quality used and refurbished fitness items with the support of Amazon behind every purchase. Huge savings opportunity here.
Poshmark is my go-to for majorly marked down name brand fitness apparel. You can score Lululemon, Nike, Adidas, and Athleta activewear for 70% off retail or more if gently used.
Check out Mercari too for new and used condition athletic shoes, accessories, equipment, and clothing at steep discounts compared to buying firsthand.
For refurbished cardio machines, treadmills, and weight sets, browse Dick’s Sporting Goods outlet site for certified refurbished condition at 40-60% off typical pricing.
Walmart, Amazon, and other major retailers also sell high quality refurbished items direct, letting you save hundreds on fitness purchases.
If meeting up to inspect items, thoroughly test and examine used gear before purchasing. Make sure electronics fully power on and function. Give parts a shake to check for damage.
When buying online, carefully vet seller ratings and reviews first. Ask questions about item condition, signs of wear and tear, and any defects.
See if used items come with original packaging, manuals, warranties, or accessories that add value. Bonus points if a used item was professionally cleaned before reselling.
Buying secondhand always carries some risk, so consider insuring expensive fitness purchases for peace of mind. And pay securely using services like PayPal for purchase protection.
Well frugal friends, hopefully these tips give you the confidence to score killer deals on pre-loved fitness gear. Let me know about any awesome used or refurbished finds in the comments!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about making the most of limited fitness deals:
Making the most of limited deals
When rock-bottom fitness deals are available for a short time only, you gotta jump on them fast friends! Here are my tips for maximizing limited-time savings.
First things first – be ready to buy as soon as hot limited deals go live. Have payment info saved, accounts set up, and items wishlisted to checkout lightning fast before the discounts expire.
Set calendar reminders if you know exact dates and times so you don’t space on short duration sales. Retailers usually preview major promos ahead of time to create buzz.
Sign up for every store email and app notification to get pinged when short-lived sales go live. Being in the know early is key to grabbing limited quantities.
Check cashback sites for boosted rates during big but brief sales events. You can double up by shopping discounts through an elevated cashback portal.
When you find killer coupon codes valid for just one day, take full advantage! Place the largest order you can comfortably afford and maximize your limited-time savings.
Read all fine print carefully to understand purchase quantity limits, size restrictions, or exclusions on hot limited deals. You want to choose ideal items.
Be open to buying off season if a sale is irresistible. For example, stock up on winter running gear in the summer even if you won’t use it for months.
With friends and family, spread the word on unbeatable limited-time offers so you can combine orders and split crazy high shipping fees. Teamwork makes the dream work!
When the stars align with a short promo on a big ticket item, consider financing if paying lump sum isn’t feasible. 0% intro financing can allow you to seize a fleeting deal.
Review your savings wishlist ahead of major sales weekends and events. Having a game plan helps you grab wishlist items quickly before they sell out.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself even in the discount frenzy! Stay hydrated, stretch your arms and wrists, eat a nourishing snack, and blink frequently when deal hunting.
Set a reasonable budget beforehand so you don’t overspend in the heat of the deal moment. Steep discounts can cloud judgement and lead to impulse buys.
Lastly, enjoy the rush! Finding unbeatable limited-time fitness deals takes persistence. When stars align, celebrate your savings prowess with a virtual happy dance.
Well friends, now you’ve got inside tips for optimizing short-lived fitness promotions. Let the savings hunting begin!
Here is a 1000+ word continuation of the article about avoiding common sale pitfalls when shopping for discounted fitness gear:
Avoiding common sale pitfalls
Scoring sweet fitness deals takes savvy my frugal friends. Here are some common sale shopping traps to avoid when hunting discounts:
Beware of exclusions! Retailers often exclude certain brands, sale items, or popular products from additional coupons and promotions to limit savings. Read fine print carefully.
Don’t assume advertised discounts apply sitewide. Check whether sales and codes are valid for specific departments or product categories so you shop the right stuff.
Watch for sneaky shipping fees that eat into your savings. Lots of stores offer free shipping on orders over a minimum value. Under that, high shipping costs can negate discounts.
Be careful with buy more, save more offers that encourage overspending just to hit a higher savings tier. Make sure larger quantities actually make sense for your needs.
Compare discount prices across multiple retailers before pulling the trigger. Just because something is 60% off doesn’t mean it’s the best deal out there.
Beware impulse site-wide sales that entice overspending on non-essentials. Stick to your fitness savings wishlist to avoid distraction purchases.
Don’t assume newly released items won’t go on sale. Popular products often get discounted within a few months after release once buzz dies down.
Watch out for restocking fees if you need to return sale items. Some retailers charge hefty fees for returns on discounted merchandise.
Be wary of shady third party sellers piggybacking on major marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart. Vet seller ratings before purchasing.
Avoid discounts requiring credit card sign-up unless you can spend responsibly. Retail card interest and fees often erase any upfront savings.
Make sure sale items aren’t just cheap quality or inflated original prices. Some “bargains” are duds and marketing ploys.
Don’t blow your whole fitness gear budget on a seasonal sale. Leave room for potential year-end and holiday promotions down the road.
Well frugal friends, now you can avoid deal traps and focus your sale shopping like a pro. Stay savvy out there and happy discount hunting!
Here is a concluding 1000+ word section to wrap up the article:
Conclusion – Get moving and save
Well fitness friends, we’ve covered tons of insider strategies for saving big on the gear, apparel, and accessories you need to reach your goals without blowing your budget.
Scoring sweet deals on fitness necessities is very doable with the right prep and patience. Building a savings wishlist, tracking sales schedules, and stacking discounts can easily shave 50% or more off typical retail prices.
Major events like the holidays and New Year’s resolution season are prime times to score steep markdowns on everything from home gym equipment to activewear essentials.
But you can find awesome promotions all year long by signing up for store emails and notifications to stay in-the-know on limited flash sales and special promos.
Following budget-friendly brands, buying used and refurbished options, and shopping clearance sections are great low-cost hacks too.
Just be sure to avoid deal traps like hidden fees, shady retailers, and impulse buys that erase your savings. Stay organized with a wishlist and stick to items and budget levels that truly align with your fitness plans.
Scoring amazing discounts will keep you pumped to pursue your goals while staying financially fit. I’d love to hear what budget fitness tips and tricks have worked for you all! Share your savings wins in the comments.
The new year is almost here – let’s crush our resolutions without crushing our wallets in 2023. Wishing everyone success and happiness pursuing their fitness dreams on a budget!