Strength training is an essential component of any workout routine, especially for those looking to build muscle or improve overall physical strength. Commercial gyms and workout facilities offer a wide variety of strength training equipment, from free weights to machines. Delve into the pros and cons of leasing vs. buying strength training equipment to determine the best option for your facility.
The Pros and Cons of Leasing Strength Training Equipment
Sometimes, leasing is a great option as it allows you to experiment with the equipment in your gym. However, it also comes with higher long-term costs than purchasing. The pros and cons of leasing your strength training equipment include:
Pro: You Can Experiment With Different Machines
Leasing allows you to test various strength training machines without a long-term commitment. This option is ideal if your commercial gym or fitness center is new and you don’t know which machines users will prefer.
When the contract ends, you can lease different machines and switch out the equipment most people don’t use for other options. For example, lease a leg press machine for three months and replace it with a squat rack. When leasing each machine, note which appeals best to your target demographic.
Pro: Easier Upkeep
Another significant advantage of leasing strength training equipment is that it reduces the burden of machine maintenance. Most leasing agreements include maintenance and repair services, saving you time and money. If a machine breaks down, the leasing company handles the repairs, ensuring minimal disruption to your workout space.
This hassle-free upkeep means you don’t have to worry about adding regular maintenance tasks to your schedule. Likewise, the leasing company ensures that all equipment is in optimal working condition. This convenience allows you to focus on other aspects of your fitness center, such as marketing and customer service.
Con: There’s No Ownership
One of the main drawbacks of leasing strength training equipment is that you never own it. Ownership offers the freedom to use the equipment as you see fit without adhering to leasing terms or conditions.
If you do not renew the leasing contract, you must return the equipment to the rental company. This can disrupt your fitness center’s operations if you don’t have a replacement machine readily available.
Leasing also means you continuously pay for the equipment. These ongoing payments can add up over time, making leasing a less attractive option for those who prefer long-term investments. On the other hand, ownership offers the potential for better value over time, as you only pay for the equipment once.
Con: Larger Long-Term Costs
Leasing may have lower initial costs, but again, continuous payments add up, and your cumulative costs become more expensive than what they’d be if you outright purchased the machines. If you plan on having the same equipment for an extended period, buying it outright may be more cost-effective than leasing it.
Additionally, lease agreements often include fees and penalties. Early termination fees, maintenance costs, and other charges can increase the overall expense of leasing. Before committing to a lease, it’s essential to consider these potential costs and weigh them against the benefits.
The Pros and Cons of Buying Strength Training Equipment
Sometimes, buying equipment for your workout space is the best option as it provides more control in terms of ownership and usage. The pros and cons of purchasing strength training equipment include:
Pro: It’s a Business Asset
Any investment you make should ideally generate revenue when you run a business. Buying strength training equipment means you own an asset that can increase the value of your business over time.
Pro Tip
Consider buying multi-gym stations. These have multiple functions for strength training workouts, such as chest presses, lat pulldowns, and seated rows. Multi-gym stations are also a space saver.
Pro: Flexibility In Usage
When you own the equipment, you have more freedom to use it since there are no lease terms or contract restrictions. This flexibility allows for more innovative and personalized workout options for your members.
Plus, you can sell any strength training machines when you upgrade equipment or otherwise no longer need the machine. This provides revenue that you can reinvest into your fitness center.
Pro: You Can Customize Machines
Modern strength training equipment offers various customization options that can enhance user experience. Customization allows users to adjust machines according to their specific needs, which can lead to better workout results.
Many gym owners and managers want to order equipment in a specific color to match their gym’s theme. TRUE Fitness even offers the option of customizing equipment and upholstery, which can add a professional touch to your space.
Con: It Can Be Expensive
The upfront cost is one of the most significant drawbacks of buying strength training equipment. High-quality machines come with a hefty price tag and a substantial initial investment. If you need a lot of machines, purchasing all of them at once adds up.
In addition to the initial purchase cost, there are ongoing financial commitments. Maintenance, repairs, and potential upgrades can add to the overall expense. These recurring costs can strain your budget, especially if you own a commercial gym with multiple machines that require regular upkeep.
Pro Tip
Create a maintenance schedule to check all machines based on the manufacturer’s recommendations; this reduces the risk of equipment breaking down prematurely.
Con: Maintenance Is Your Duty
Owning strength training equipment comes with the responsibility of maintenance. Regular upkeep ensures that machines function correctly and safely. This maintenance includes cleaning surfaces, lubricating moving parts, and checking for wear and tear. Neglecting these tasks can lead to equipment malfunctions that can pose a risk to users.
Maintenance requires both time and money. You may need to hire professionals for regular inspections and repairs in addition to your operational costs. The time you spend on maintenance can also be a drawback, especially for small business owners with many responsibilities.
Which Is Best?
When weighing the pros and cons of leasing vs. buying strength training equipment, the ideal option depends on your business’s needs, budget, and priorities. Keep in mind that leases can leave you with expensive payment penalties if your gym fails or you no longer want the machine.
Shop for Quality Machines
TRUE Fitness offers a wide range of high-quality strength training and cardio equipment for commercial fitness centers. Options such as our commercial treadmills for gyms are durable, and orthopedic shock-absorption decks keep workouts safe and comfortable for users.
Investing in the right strength training equipment can transform your workout experience. Consider the pros and cons carefully before deciding, and don’t hesitate to contact TRUE Fitness for expert guidance in selecting the perfect machines for your needs.