Sponsored resources · Storage.com
Need space for a move or cleanout?
Compare U.S. self-storage units for the belongings you want to keep.
Find storage nearbySports & Recreation recycling
How to Recycle Exercise Equipment
Home gym machines, free weights, benches, mats, and related workout gear. Resale and donation dominate; scrap metal is the main end-of-life path for iron and steel.
Check local acceptanceWorking machines: tens to hundreds of dollars used; scrap iron/steel priced per pound at the yardLast reviewed July 31, 2026
Quick answer
Sell or trade working fitness gear at Play It Again Sports or online marketplaces. Thrift stores often take free weights and small accessories but frequently refuse large treadmills and ellipticals. Metal plates and frames go to scrap yards. Before you go, confirm that a local recycling center accepts the material in its current condition.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Working machines: tens to hundreds of dollars used; scrap iron/steel priced per pound at the yard
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Clean equipment; wipe sweat contact surfaces
- 2Test that machines and electronics still work before listing for sale
- 3Remove batteries from consoles and heart-rate devices
- 4Photograph condition for marketplace or consignment listings
- 5Call Goodwill or thrift before hauling bulky cardio machines
- 6Ask the scrap yard about rubber-coated plates before dropping them
Where to Recycle
- Play It Again Sports
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist
- Goodwill (small gear and free weights; ask about cardio)
- Metal scrap yards
- Community centers and school weight rooms (donation, if accepted)
Special Instructions
Play It Again Sports buys working fitness gear in many markets. Large cardio machines are commonly rejected by thrift stores; Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are usually better. Cast-iron and steel plates have scrap value; rubber-coated plates may be refused or discounted. Do not assume Habitat ReStore takes treadmills nationally. Yoga mats rarely have municipal recycling. Broken electrical machines need e-waste handling for motors and consoles, not a claim that the whole unit is 'recyclable.' Most modern plates are iron or steel, not lead; older novelty or specialty weights can differ.
Environmental Impact
Reuse of working machines avoids manufacturing a replacement. Scrap steel and iron from plates and frames return metal to the materials stream. Landfilling bulky cardio wastes both metal and electronics that could have been recovered separately.
Sustainable Alternatives
- Sell working equipment online
- Trade for store credit at used sporting goods shops
- Donate small gear to YMCA or school PE programs
- Scrap metal frames and plates
Official guidance and resources
Accepted items and drop-off rules can vary by location. Check the destination before you go.
What’s Accepted
Accepted
- Free weights, dumbbells, and kettlebells
- Weight benches and racks in safe condition
- Working treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes for resale
- Yoga mats, bands, and small accessories for donation when clean
- Home gym frames for scrap when beyond repair
Not Accepted
- Equipment with frayed cords or exposed wiring for donation
- Recalled fitness products
- Assuming every thrift store takes treadmills
- Lead or unknown-metal novelty weights without checking local scrap rules
Donation & Take‑Back Options
Hazardous Components
- Batteries in consoles and wireless sensors
- Hydraulic fluids in some machines
- Older or specialty weights that may contain lead (verify; most modern plates are iron/steel)
FAQs
Will Goodwill take my treadmill?
Often no. Many Goodwill regions refuse large cardio machines. Call first, or sell/give away via marketplace.
Are rubber-coated dumbbells scrap metal?
Maybe. Call the yard; some accept them at a discount, others want bare metal only.
Related recycling guides
- How to recycle Bicycles & Bike Parts
- How to recycle Sports Balls
- How to recycle Camping & Outdoor Gear
- How to recycle Athletic Shoes & Sneakers
- How to recycle Sports Helmets & Protective Gear
- How to recycle Sports Training & Exercise Accessories
- How to recycle Golf Clubs & Equipment
- How to recycle Recreational Vehicles & Ride-On Toys
- How to recycle Water Sports Equipment
- How to recycle Sporting Goods Storage & Bags
Recycle exercise equipment
Search recycling centers by city or ZIP, or explore more sports & recreation materials.