More fitness buffs turn to used equipment

Many people are deciding to buy used gear or fix the equipment they already have, rather than buy something new.

Treadmill machines are his most common repair. They are usually the victims of faulty motor control boards which result from poor belt or deck lubrication. A control board repair usually runs about $250. The decision to fix or replace a piece of equipment should be based on the original value of the gear. Once repairs reach half or more of the original cost, it's time to look for something new.

Given the current tough times, an at-home gym makes a lot of sense. You don't have to pack a gym bag, wait your turn on a machine or worry that you're using it too long. The dues you pay each year would easily pay for most pieces of equipment, and then it's yours.

Resale shops are great places to find bargains on exercise equipment.