January. The gyms are packed, the New Year's resolutions are fresh. And on free-stuff platforms, dumbbells, cross trainers, and yoga mats suddenly appear. Not a coincidence.
Sports equipment is the category of broken resolutions. Here's how you can benefit.
The Cycle of Good Intentions
Every year, the same thing happens: In January, millions of people buy sports equipment. By March, most of it sits unused in a corner. The following January, it gets given away to make room for new resolutions.
That sounds cynical, but it's reality. I got my dumbbells from someone who "actually wanted to use them daily". His words, not mine.
The good news: This equipment is often barely used. A home trainer that's been used twice is practically new. Dumbbells that were in use for a few weeks show no wear.
What Gets Given Away Most Often
Yoga mats seem to be everywhere. After a yoga course, everyone buys their own mat. After three months, the course is no longer attended, and the mat sits in the cupboard. Eventually it gets given away.
Dumbbells and weights are popular giveaways because they're heavy. Literally. When moving, nobody wants to lug 20 kilos of dumbbell weights that they don't use anyway.
Home trainers -- cross trainers, exercise bikes, treadmills -- are the kings of unfulfilled resolutions. Big, expensive, and after a few weeks just a clothes rack. If you get one for free, you're lucky. If you get rid of one, also lucky.
Bicycles show up when people move or switch to e-bikes. Sometimes in surprisingly good condition.
What to Watch Out For
With dumbbells and weights: Is the material intact? Cast iron dumbbells are practically indestructible. With coated dumbbells, the rubber can crack or crumble.
With home trainers: Does the electronics work? Are all belts and pedals intact? Does the machine make strange noises? Test on-site if possible.
With yoga mats and similar items: Is it clean? Yoga is sweaty, and not everyone cleans their mat. Ask, or plan to give it a thorough wash yourself.
With bicycles: Brakes, tyres, gears. The basics should work. Minor issues can be repaired, but if the bike is unsafe, leave it.
The Transport Factor
Sports equipment is often bulky or heavy. A cross trainer weighs 40-50 kilos and doesn't fit in every car boot. Plan the transport before you commit.
For large equipment, you'll probably need a van. Mobility has them, or ask around in the family.
For dumbbells: Don't underestimate the weight. A 20-kilo dumbbell set doesn't sound like much, but carrying it up to the third floor without a lift is a workout in itself.
Why You Should Be Selective with Sports Equipment Too
Free is tempting, but not everything makes sense.
Before you pick up a piece of sports equipment, ask yourself: Will I actually use this? Do I have space for it? Will I be giving it away myself in six months?
I once got a free cross trainer. Great machine, barely used. But my flat is small, and after two months the thing was just in the way. In the end, I gave it away again myself.
The equipment that fits is more valuable than the equipment that was more expensive. A pair of dumbbells you use regularly does more than a treadmill collecting dust.
The Best Time to Search
January to March is peak season. The resolutions are broken, the equipment gets released.
Spring is also good, when people declutter or move.
In autumn, there's sometimes a small peak when people give up their outdoor activities and pass on their summer sports equipment.
If You Want to Give Things Away Yourself
Be honest about the condition. "Barely used" is only credible if it's true.
Take good photos. With sports equipment, people want to see details -- the condition of the padding, whether everything is complete, how big the thing really is.
For heavy items: Offer help with carrying if you can. That makes the pickup easier for everyone.
And clean the equipment beforehand. A sweaty yoga mat or a dusty home trainer puts people off.
Conclusion
Sports equipment is the category of second chances. What only took up space at someone else's place can become part of your regular training routine.
But be realistic. Not every offer is a bargain, and not every piece of equipment fits your life.
Check out PIKITUP -- especially in January. Other people's broken resolutions can be your gain.
What was your best sports equipment find? Write to me -- hello@pikitup.ch