How to Prepare
- 1Clean equipment thoroughly with appropriate cleaners
- 2Test functionality - working equipment has high donation value
- 3Disassemble large machines if necessary for transport
- 4Remove batteries from electronic equipment
- 5Take photos for resale or donation listings
- 6Check for recalls or safety issues before donating
Where to Recycle
- Play It Again Sports and used sporting goods stores
- Goodwill and Salvation Army locations
- Fitness equipment specialty stores
- Metal scrap yards (for weights and metal frames)
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for resale
Special Instructions
Working exercise equipment has excellent resale and donation value. Metal weights are valuable scrap metal. Electronic equipment may need special e-waste handling.
Environmental Impact
Exercise equipment reuse extends product life and prevents metal and plastic waste. Quality equipment can serve multiple owners for decades, significantly reducing manufacturing demand.
Sustainable Alternatives
- Sell working equipment through online marketplaces
- Donate to community centers or schools
- Trade for store credit at used sporting goods stores
- Repurpose weights for garden or home projects
- Convert equipment frames for storage or organization
What’s Accepted
Accepted
- Free weights and dumbbells
- Weight machines and benches
- Treadmills, ellipticals, and cardio equipment
- Yoga mats, exercise balls, and accessories
- Resistance bands and equipment
- Home gym systems
Not Accepted
- Broken equipment with safety hazards
- Equipment with frayed electrical cords
- Severely rusted or corroded metal equipment
- Equipment missing essential parts
- Recalled fitness equipment
Donation & Take‑Back Options
Estimated value: $0.50-1.00 per pound for scrap metal; $50-1000+ for working equipment depending on type and condition
Donation
- YMCA
- Community recreation centers
- Goodwill
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Hazardous Components
- Lead weights (older equipment)
- Electronic components with batteries
- Hydraulic fluids in some machines