Gym equipment is one the greatest investment of life and it can last many years if you properly take care of it. If you run a gym or work out at home, it is important to know that keeping the equipment clean regularly improves its efficiency. The cost of repair and replacement is also reduced due to proper maintenance. Since gym equipment maintenance is essential, it is important to understand how to care for it properly.
In this guide, we have shared simple tips to keep your gym equipment in great condition. Follow these tips to make your machines last longer and perform at their best.
1. Clean Your Equipment Regularly
The first simple step to keep your gym equipment fit is cleaning. When a lot of people use machines, they leave sweat on the surface. This sweat, combined with dirt, can damage the surface of the machine if left for too long. It can also make your gym have an unpleasant smell. So it is recommended to wipe the equipment after each use to prevent unpleasant odour and damage to gym equipment. Here are few cleaning tips for gym equipment that you can follow:
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Use a soft cloth and a mild spray without any harsh chemicals
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For screens and consoles, use a damp cloth and dry them straight after.
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Once a week, give your gym a deeper clean.
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Remove dust from corners and vacuum around heavy equipment.
By following these simple and easy cleaning tips, you can make your gym equipment look spotless and pleasant to use for your clients.
2. Inspect for Wear and Tear
Even if the gym machine is working properly, make sure to watch out for wear or tear regularly. You can avoid any chance of injury or malfunctions by spotting the problem early. For inspection of wear and tear, we recommend following tips:
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To maintain gym equipment, perform weekly inspections.
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Look for cracks or any broken parts that may need repair.
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Check security and tightness of each nut and bolt.
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Monitor the sounds of your gym machines, especially the treadmills. Unusual sounds, like squeaking or rattling, are indicators of needed repairs.
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To prevent rust, scratches, and other hazards, store your weights on racks.
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For strength equipment, such as benches and racks, inspect the welds and joints.
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Before grips, pads, or cables are totally worn out, replace them to maintain a safe use.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubrication is an important step to keep gym equipment in good working condition. Gym equipment may wear over time due to friction. The most affected mentions by frictions included treadmills and cable systems, as they need smooth movement to work properly.
It is recommended to use a silicon-based lubricant every few months. We highly discourage using oil-based products as they may attract dust. The dust can damage the rubber and plastic, which is why silicon lubricant is a better option. When you use these products, make sure to follow the instructions on the label.
If you own a treadmill, keep in mind to apply lubricant under the belt to reduce stress on the motor. If you use strength machines, try to oil the pivot points and joints to prevent stiffness. Make sure to keep your gear dry and away from moisture to stop rust. If your gym is humid, use a small fan or dehumidifier to protect the metal parts.
4. Store Your Equipment the Right Way
It is not just about cleaning and maintenance; how you store the equipment also greatly affects life. We have compiled some simple tips to store the equipment the right way. You can follow these simple instructions for better storage:
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Prevent your weights from getting scratches or rust. Stack them on storage racks instead of leaving them on the floor.
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To prevent resistance bands and skipping ropes from stretching and tangling, hang them from hooks.
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Placing all machines on flat surfaces reduces strain on the machines and keeps them stable.
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Provide sufficient distance around every piece of equipment for safe and easy maneuverability.
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Store portable items in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, and use Curve Fitness racks to keep your gym tidy and safe.
5. Get Regular Professional Servicing
You can take good care of your gym equipment, but still, professional serving can not be ignored. Expert handlers are able to spot issues that may be overlooked by layperson.
Gym owners who own cardio machines like treadmills and exercise bikes should get their gym equipment services at least once a year. By proper servicing, you can also make sure everything is properly aligned. For strength machines and cable systems, servicing can be done every six to twelve months.
If you run a commercial gym, servicing should happen more often because your machines are used daily by many people. Keep a simple record of each check so you know when it’s time for the next one.
Final Thoughts
Gym maintenance is an essential step that makes your equipment work better and stay efficient for years to come. Cleaning and proper inspections can avoid any risk of wear and tear. For further smoother functioning, lubrication can prove to be valuable. After following all these tips, make sure to get professional help at least once a year to protect your lifelong investment.
Take care of your setup and treat your equipment well to get the best performance every time you train.