Moving Fitness Equipment Safely

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, you need to move your fitness equipment safely. It represents an investment in time and money and you don't want to damage it. In addition, moving it improperly can be dangerous and cause injury to the movers.

It's a great idea to trust your equipment to Show Me Weights. We offer professional fitness equipment moving O'Fallon MO and surrounding areas. It doesn't matter if it's hand weights, stationary bikes, or a treadmill elliptical, we can handle your move. 

Who Ya Gonna Call?

No doubt you have many friends who are more than willing to help with your move. That's great. Let them carry the boxes of books and dishes. There are just too many good reasons to hire experts to move your fitness equipment.

• Fitness equipment is big. Really big. It is also oddly shaped, with bits and pieces sticking out here and there. Most of it won't fit in a packing box. You need more than one person to move it safely.
• Fitness equipment is heavy. One of its main jobs is to add weight and resistance, after all. The pros have the hand trucks, ramps, and dollies you want to get the job done.
• Fitness equipment may have sensitive electronics. As equipment gets more sophisticated, so does the computer inside. Some pieces should have their electronics taken out before they are moved. Only professionals should do that. You risk damaging your equipment beyond repair.
• Fitness equipment is complex. There are countless moving parts that may be detachable or may move around during a move. Let the pros decide what should be taken off for the move and what should be secured.

The bottom line is that exercise equipment in the hands of untrained movers is downright dangerous. All the parts and pieces are so awkward and cumbersome, it's too easy to lose balance while moving. Don't risk hurting or damaging your equipment or even worse, injuring yourself or your moving buddies. Call the pros and let them handle it.

You're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat

Here's another good reason to hire pros to move your gym. A self-move typically means tossing things in the back of a pickup truck. If you're really lucky, maybe you snagged a small moving van. Either way, your equipment may not fit and it certainly won't be secured.

You really need a proper moving truck to haul exercise and fitness equipment safely. There need to be tie-downs, too. These are ropes or straps that secure your equipment to the inside wall of the truck. Without these things, there's no guarantee your gear will arrive safely to its new home.

Professional movers already have all these tools. So instead of canvassing your friends to find out who has a big enough truck, or calling all the moving truck rentals to find a place that can rent you the van, make one call. Put Show Me Weights on your speed dial. They've got all the gear to make the move successful.

Here's Lookin' At You, Kid

Before Show Me Weights comes to your door, you have a part to play, too. You need to prep your fitness gear for the moving day. This should begin with a thorough cleaning. Use disinfectant wipes or a water and bleach mixture to wipe everything down. Pay special attention to any touch screens and rubber grips.

Next, you should take pictures of your equipment. This is just a precaution, as professional movers are trained in handling your equipment, but it is always a good idea to be prepared with photographic documentation.

Then it's time to take off any frills you may have attached to your fitness equipment. For example, water bottles and heart rate monitors that are after-market additions should be removed and packed separately with other small fitness items. There's no need for you to dismantle any of the equipment itself. Your movers will take care of that.

Just Keep Swimming

Moving day can be chaotic and stressful. There are many details to organize and keep track of. To help you stay afloat on your big day, here's what you can expect from the moving services at Show Me Weights.

1. First, we disassemble any parts, such as removing clamps and plates, and wrap the weights to protect them during the move. We'll wrap hand weights and kettlebells, too. 
2. Benches, steps, and boxes get wrapped in padding or moving blankets and will be secured inside the moving van.
3. For the big gear, your treadmills, ellipticals, or other heavy workout machines, we stabilize any moving parts. Then we wrap the entire machine with protective padding. We'll use a dolly to transport it to the moving van and then secure it with moving straps.
4. We ensure that all small parts, like nuts, bolts, and locking pins, are bagged and labeled for each piece of equipment.

We understand that your workout equipment is precious to you. We take every precaution. From the takedown, through the move, and to the final setup, we make sure your gear is protected.

There's No Place Like Home

The key to a successful move is knowing where you want the equipment to go in your new space. Are you setting up a new home gym in a dedicated room? Are you tucking it all into a corner of the bedroom or family room? Plan it out in advance so you can tell the movers precisely where to put each piece.

For your workout area to be really useful, it should be about six feet by six feet. If it's much smaller than that you may feel cramped and unable to perform the exercises correctly. You'll need access to outlets and good lighting. If you can place a mirror on a nearby wall, that's a bonus. 

Of course, you should work with what you have. If that means moving the coffee table out of the way or pushing the sofa to the wall each time you want to do some leg extensions, it's OK. As long as any equipment you have has enough floor space, you will be fine.

To Infinity and Beyond!

Show Me Weights can do more than just move your stuff. We are experts in gym equipment and can help you set up your personal workout space for maximum impact. Let us know if you need any of the following:

• Lat bars, curl bars, dumbells, kettlebells
• Step climbers, rowing machines, exercise bikes, ellipticals
• Power racks, squat stands
• Resistance bands, steps, ropes

In addition to just about any piece of fitness equipment you could desire, we have the storage for it, too. So if in the middle of your move you realize you need better storage for some of your gear, we can handle that. We'll deliver it to your new address and set it up for you.

There is one more important thing to think about when relocating your home gym and that is flooring. Does your new workout space have the flooring you need to be safe during your workout sessions? Does your flooring protect whatever is underneath, whether it's tile, hardwood, or subfloor?

If you're at all concerned about what's underfoot, we can help you with that. Show Me Weights has flooring options to meet a variety of needs. We can assist you in selecting the type that is best for your situation.

We've got small recycled rubber mats that fit in any space. They offer plenty of impact protection despite their size. They are a good choice for portability and for times when your exercise equipment has to share square footage with a living room or bedroom.

If you need PVC mats to go under your treadmill, elliptical, or other equipment, we have that, too. Protect your original floor with these mats without having to lay a covering over the entire floor. A PVC mat also reduces noise levels for a quieter workout area.

You Talking to Me?

Do you have any questions? If so, it's time to talk to the pros at Show Me Weights. You can ask for a free estimate on the cost of moving your workout gear. We can also chat about your equipment. Tell us if you need any new pieces or repairs. Would you like to upgrade to something newer? We can assist you with all of these things.

With our delivery service we can bring any new gear straight to your new home. So we'll move your old stuff and deliver the new. Talk about a win-win. Your new home could have the gym of your dreams.

Get ready for your move today by taking an inventory of all your exercise equipment. Decide what needs to go with you and what you should put into a yard sale. If it's broken, damaged, or you haven't used it in over two years, leave it behind. After you've made a list, get in touch with Show Me Weights. Our pros will discuss your move with you and help you prepare for the big day.

 

What You Should Know When Moving Your Home Gym

Do you have a home gym? While it may be your favorite room in the house, perhaps you are getting ready to move and need to transition your fitness equipment to its new location.

If that's the case, it is essential to know how to go about moving all of your exercise equipment safely and effectively. These suggestions can help you start planning and figure out what you need to do as you transfer your home gym to its new location.

What You Should Know When Deciding To Move Your Home Gym 

You should consider several factors when you are moving your equipment from one home gym to another.

These can include:

• How much space you will have
• If you need to get rid of or replace any old equipment
• What personal changes you would like to make to your home gym
• Moving costs and how much you'll need to pay to get your exercise equipment moved

Consider what is important to you as you plan your move. For example, maybe you want more space for cardio workouts like dancing, or perhaps you want to focus on room for yoga and stretching. Perhaps you'd like to change up machines and try something different. Planning in advance what you'll need to do before the move can help ensure a safe and successful trip.

How To Determine What Equipment To Take With You

Start by assessing your current equipment and figure out what you want your new gym to look like. Do you want just one or two items, or would you like to have plenty of options when it comes to your daily workout? This might be the time to think about your fitness choices and what you'd like to have at home.

If you're unsure about the best types of equipment to have, here are ideas on what to buy, depending on what parts of your body you want to focus on the most.

Ellipticals

If you don't already have an elliptical, this is an item worth investing in. Ellipticals are great for toning legs, arms, and even your core. Unlike a treadmill, you can move your legs backward. This allows you to work on other muscles that might not get used as much, leaving you with a more fully toned body. Many ellipticals measure your heart rate and calories burned when you are working out, making it easy to keep an eye on your fitness progress.

Treadmills

Treadmills are one of the most common pieces of gym equipment. Many people love running but lack the ability to do so when the weather is bad or they don't have access to a good running area. Having a treadmill eliminates that problem and gives you the chance to get your daily steps in.

You can set a treadmill to as steep of an incline as you would like (or none at all), and have it go as fast as you want, allowing yourself to build up stamina. Treadmills work out your whole body, especially your core and legs if you are using proper form.

Stationary Bikes

Stationary bikes are another popular option for those who like to have a gym at home. If you can't make it outside for your regular bike ride due to the weather or other circumstances, having a stationary bike means you'll be able to ride whenever you want.

You can find bikes that allow you to sit upright or those that give you a choice to recline, so you can support your back as you are workout out. Biking is a helpful way to build leg muscles and burn calories at the same time.

Weights

Weights are one of the most common ways to build muscle. You might have a set of hand weights that you use to build strength in your arms, weights that wrap around your wrists and ankles for an improved workout, or perhaps a full weight machine that you can use to tone up all over. Weight machines can provide you with a variety of options when it comes to working out different muscles, while smaller hand weights are great if you don't have a lot of room. Using weights can be helpful if you need a change from cardio and you want to gain additional bulk.

When You Should Replace Gym Equipment 

Make sure to check your gym equipment before packing and moving anything. You want to ensure that the items you are taking to your new home gym are in good working condition.

Signs that it is time to replace something can include:

• Equipment that is constantly in need of repairs
• Electrical components not working
• You've had accidents that are related to the equipment malfunctioning when you are using it

If you notice these problems, it might be best to have that equipment removed. That way you aren't putting yourself at risk of having an accident the next time you choose to work out.

How You Can Prepare for Moving Day 

As you get ready to move your gym, you want to think about what things you can do to get ready for moving day, so you aren't dealing with unexpected surprises. After you have decided what items you are taking to your new gym, you should work on getting everything you'll need for the moving day.

This can include:

• Getting moving boxes to have on hand
• Getting wrap, such as bubble wrap to wrap the weights in
• Finding out how much help you'll need
• Getting estimates regarding the cost

Start by doing what you can on your own to make the process easier, such as reserving a moving truck and wrapping smaller items that can go into boxes. The less you have to pay for, the cheaper your moving experience can be.

What You Should Know About Estimates

It's always worth getting a free estimate from a couple of different moving companies. This can give you a better idea of what to expect and help you determine what should make the cut when you move your gym. Don't forget to ask what is included as you get your estimates.

Factors to be aware of can include providing supplies, movers, and if the company is willing to assemble and install certain items for you once your equipment has made it safely to your new home gym.

Why You Should Protect Your Floors

Another step to prep for when the big day arrives is using moving blankets and cardboard boxes to keep your floors safe and as scuff-free as possible. Chances are that your gym floors are made of a special material, and you want to avoid scuffing them up. You also don't want anyone to slip and fall as they are moving equipment, doing your best to avoid injuries.

Make sure you use materials that can protect the floors, such as lining them with cardboard to give movers a place to walk on. It is also less of a problem if someone accidentally drops something or needs to lower an item. Moving blankets can provide additional protection to the floors, and provide double protection if you need to safely wrap your equipment in something to keep it safe during the move.

When You Need To Hire Help and Moving Companies

Sometimes it is too much to try and move items all by yourself. You might be wanting to move an elliptical, but it may be safer to let a company with professional movers deal with that. Professionals usually know where to put items, and can assist with packing and moving if you find yourself getting behind.

Many moving companies will ensure there are enough moving professionals to handle the job and help you get situated in your new home gym.

Why You Should Find a Service That Offers Assembly and Installation 

It is common for moving services that specialize in dealing with exercise equipment to offer assembly and installation when you are planning a major move. This is important, because it allows you to have a professional put everything together for you, and you don't need to worry about how you'll handle equipment that is not properly screwed together that could cause a potential accident.

Make sure you get the cost for this in your estimate so that you aren't surprised later on. Having your equipment assembled can save you the hassle and worry as you get your new gym set up.

How You Can Move Exercise Equipment Without the Worry

If you are trying to move your at-home gym, it's important to plan ahead and get the help you need so that you are needlessly struggling later on. This way you can feel confident you are working out in a safe and effective manner.

If you are looking for fitness equipment moving O'Fallon MO, let Show Me Weights assist you. We can offer you a variety of different machines if you are shopping for your home gym or want to make a few new additions. Get in touch with us today and find out how you can get started.

 

How You Can Move Your Fitness Center Safely 

Do you currently have a fitness center in your home? You enjoy working out, but you're about to move to a new house, and you aren't sure what you can (or should) do to safely transport your home gym. Perhaps you're looking for help with fitness equipment moving O'Fallon MO, and you don't know where to begin or if that is even necessary.

Discover how you can plan ahead and suggestions that can help improve your new home gym while ensuring you and your equipment are safe in the process.

Deciding To Move and Rebuilding a Fitness Center 

Maybe you've decided to move because you got a new job, needed a bigger home, or you were simply ready for a change. Either way, you know that once you relocate, your fitness center will need to be rebuilt.

Take this time to ask yourself questions, such as what you like about your current home gym equipment, what changes you want to make, and what would help you the most as you achieve your fitness goals. Go into your current gym and make notes of what you love and what you would rather have different. A little planning goes a long way.

Evaluating Your Home Gym Equipment

Next, start by taking a look at your current gym equipment and seeing what you would like to change.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• How old are my workout machines?
• Would I rather have something different for my fitness routine or do I want a change?
• Are my machines broken?
• How much space does my new home gym have?

If you need to go out and purchase new equipment, it's better to decide early on. That way you can try out different types of machines and see which ones you like the best. You don't have to worry about making the wrong choice since you'll have plenty of time to decide, too.

Understanding Your Space Limitations

During your planning phase, it is helpful to find out how much square footage you'll have in your new home gym and compare it with what you currently have. This knowledge can help you understand if you need to downsize any of your equipment, or you might be pleasantly surprised that you have more room than expected, and you can make upgrades.

When considering new exercise equipment, don't forget to ensure there is enough room between machines for you to easily get on and dismount the machines. This is especially important if other family members will be using the home gym with you. If you find you'll have less space than you expected, don't despair; it's still possible to develop a quality home gym even with limited space.

Accessorizing Your Gym

Does your current home fitness center have accessories, or would you like to use this move to upgrade your home gym even more? Think about what commercial gyms have, and consider what ways you could make improvements that would enhance your workouts.

You could add floor-to-ceiling mirrors in your gym, install a rack or other storage space to hold equipment such as yoga mats, or even include more floor space so you can enjoy different types of workouts when you are tired of using the same machines. For anyone who wants to try aerobics, pilates, yoga, or something else, this might be a good option and can make a difference in how you view your home gym.

Getting Rid of Old Pieces of Equipment

If you find you have old, broken, or otherwise unwanted equipment, it's important to get rid of it before moving. You could try selling it or listing it online, and see if you get buyers that way, as long as the equipment is not unusable. Even if you don't make a large profit off of it, you can still put your earnings back into your home gym or your overall move.

If you find items that are broken or no longer safe to own, see about getting moving services to help you move your fitness items. This way you don't have to worry about moving unwanted machines and you may need fewer moving trucks to help you when the big day arrives.

Figuring Out What Types of Equipment To Get

There's no shortage of different types of machines out there to try depending on your goals, your body, and what you enjoy doing when you work out. Even if you only have room for one or two items, these are considered staples for most home gyms. Learn more about each item and see which might be the best to suit your needs.

Treadmills

Treadmills are one of the most common items on the market when it comes to home fitness. These machines can be set to incline if you desire, or you can jog or walk on a flat surface. You can go as fast or slow as you would like, making them ideal for beginners and advanced fitness enthusiasts.  They can take up quite a bit of space, but they will help you with your legs and core, and they can be low impact.

Most treadmills these days have sensors to measure your heart rate and how many calories you burn per session, making them a worthwhile investment when it comes to taking care of your health.

Ellipticals

Much like treadmills ellipticals are another popular option. These allow you to work your arms, legs, and core and give you the option to move backward. This is helpful in building muscle and using parts of the body that do not normally move in a backward direction.

Just as with a treadmill, you can track your heart rate and calories burned. Ellipticals allow you to change how much resistance you have when using the machine, so if you would like a more difficult workout that challenges you, it is possible to adjust how much resistance you have and how fast you can go.

Stationary Bikes 

Stationary bikes are popular with people of all ages. If you love to bike but you live somewhere that gets cold in the winter and makes it impossible to go for a ride, a stationary bike might be the solution you are searching for.

Although there are upright bikes, you can find ones that allow you to sit back and provide much-needed back support. These machines are great for your core and your legs and can help you understand if you are going fast enough, what your heart rate is, and allow you to change the resistance.

Alternative Workouts

If you've decided on more floor space for your home gym, there are still plenty of workouts you can do that will give you the fitness experience you're looking for. Pilates can help sculpt your body, while aerobics is great for those who want to burn calories and work up a sweat at the same time. Yoga is a workout that doesn't always feel like one but can help push your flexibility more than you imagined possible.

Make sure you have enough room and protective equipment such as mats, hand weights, and other items you might need to have a successful time.

Packing Up Your Equipment

If you've decided you are taking certain machines with you, it's important you pack up your equipment as safely as possible. First, disassemble what you can so that all the smaller parts are safely removed. Use tools like bubble wrap, Ziploc bags, and packing materials to ensure that small parts are close together, computerized parts are protected, and nothing gets lost.

When you are dealing with equipment moving from one house to another, it's easy for something to get misplaced or damaged, so make sure you are labeling anything you box up or otherwise store away.

Enlisting the Help of Fitness Equipment Movers

Exercise machines can be heavy enough on their own. That is why you should seek out the services of a professional mover. Rather than trying to do everything by yourself or with limited help, professional movers will know how to dissemble exercise equipment. They can help you avoid problems that could hurt your items, such as dropping or damaging equipment, and they will have the tools necessary to do so.

Working with a professional can save you money in the long run, since you don't have to buy your own dolly, and you can have peace of mind as everything is being relocated.

Ensuring a Safe Moving Experience 

Moving from one home to another and taking your home fitness center with you can be nerve-wracking for anyone. That is why it is important to plan ahead and figure out what you need to take with you and how you can best rebuild your home gym.

If you need new fitness equipment and you aren't sure where to go, check out Show Me Weights. We have both new and pre-owned gym equipment that might be just what you are looking for. Contact us today, and find out how we can help you with your home gym needs.