Can I put my gym equipment outside?

When setting up a home gym, the first consideration is often finding a space that works for your equipment. While a spare room is a common choice, you might prefer not to sacrifice that area. As you explore different solutions, the question arises: Can I leave my gym equipment outside?

Perhaps you have an open garage, a covered patio, or a fenced yard that could serve as a perfect fitness area. The straightforward answer? Yes, it is indeed possible. Certain gym equipment is designed to tolerate various weather conditions, while others require precautions to survive the elements.

This article will explore:

• The pros and cons of leaving fitness equipment outdoors
• Maintenance tips to extend the life of your outdoor gym gear
• Strength, cardio, and functional training equipment suitable for outdoor use

By the end, you will be able to determine if leaving your gym equipment outside is the right choice for you.

Pros of Leaving Gym Equipment Outside

More Space Available

Having a dedicated area for your fitness regime is essential to pursue your health and wellness goals. The space you carve out for your home workout serves as a constant motivation. If you are unable to spare any space indoors, setting up your gym equipment outdoors is a viable alternative.

Designating a corner in your garage, on a patio, or even in your backyard enables you to enhance your home gym without compromising valuable indoor square footage. Additionally, leaving your equipment outside allows for more room to perform functional exercises such as Olympic lifts, overhead presses, and walking lunges.

Enhanced Convenience

When indoor space is limited, workout time often requires moving equipment around, which can be cumbersome. While portable options like the Keiser Mi3 Spin Bike are easier to relocate, larger equipment can become a deterrent to regular exercise.

Having your gym equipment set up outdoors means it is always ready for use, minimizing setup time when it's time to work out. This added convenience lets you focus your energy where it matters most: achieving your fitness goals.

Inspiration for Outdoor Exercise

Setting up your gym gear outdoors provides you with fresh air and a new environment, both of which deliver substantial health benefits. Exercise in nature not only improves physical fitness (including blood flow and endurance) but can also enhance your mood and mental well-being, as studies suggest. [1]

Moreover, exercising outdoors gives you a healthy dose of Vitamin D from sunlight, which boosts bone health and encourages the release of serotonin—the body’s natural “feel-good” hormone. [2]

Cons of Leaving Gym Equipment Outside

Potential Damage to Equipment

One of the primary concerns about storing gym equipment outside is the risk of damage. Without adequate shelter and care, exposure to weather elements can lead to deterioration.

Rain, snow, and humidity pose threats to uncovered gear, potentially leading to rust and corrosion in metal parts. Similarly, rubber or plastic components can degrade in the heat. Even with protective coverings, wind may bring rain into contact with your equipment, resulting in damage.

Seasonal Considerations

While there are numerous advantages to outdoor fitness, it may be impractical during certain seasons. In regions with heavy rainfall during winter and spring, such as Vancouver—often nicknamed “Raincouver”—outdoor workouts may be significantly affected.

This consistent rain can damage outdoor gym items, particularly heavier strength training and cardio machines. Therefore, it might be wise to relocate your equipment indoors during periods of heavy rain.

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Increased Maintenance Needs

One more drawback to consider is the additional maintenance your outdoor gym equipment will require. Indoors, the primary worry is body sweat; however, outdoors, humidity and moisture will necessitate extra care to prevent rust and corrosion.

Types of Gym Equipment Suitable for Outdoor Use

With careful planning, almost any piece of fitness equipment can be used outdoors. Even if certain items aren't designed for the elements, features such as wheels and fold-up designs facilitate outdoor workouts. Below is a list of cardio, strength, and functional training equipment that works effectively for indoor and outdoor fitness.

Cardio Equipment

• Hoist® Lemond® Series Elite Cycle Bike:
• LifeSpan E5i Elliptical Trainer:

• Concept2 RowErg Rowing Machine:

  Its powder-coated and stainless-steel design withstands sweat and mild moisture. Just keep it clean after use! Lightweight and portable, the Concept2 conveniently disassembles for simpler outdoor storage.

Strength Training Equipment

Functional Training Equipment

Maintaining Gym Equipment Kept Outdoors

Regular upkeep is essential for fitness equipment stored outdoors. This includes routine cleaning, lubrication, and rust removal for free weights, plus special care for mechanical items like treadmills and rowing machines. Equipment longevity can be further enhanced with products from Fitness Town, such as the WaterRower Cleaning Kit and LifeSpan Fitness Treadmill Belt Lubricant.

Additionally, every piece of equipment will eventually require service or repairs to keep functioning optimally. Fitness Town is proud to provide Western Canada’s largest in-house service department for equipment maintenance. If your gym gear needs servicing, please fill out our service request form—we can connect you with our skilled technicians. Remember: any equipment purchased from Fitness Town qualifies for a discount of 15-50% on service rates!

Conclusion: Choose What Is Best For You

Creating a home gym is a significant commitment. You spend considerable time selecting the right gear, going through buyer’s guides, and planning a dedicated workout space. Naturally, you’ll want to protect your investment. The ideal home gym is one that supports your fitness aspirations, whether located indoors or outdoors. If you decide that an outdoor gym suits you best, remember that there are effective strategies to maintain your equipment and minimize wear.

If you’re contemplating an outdoor home gym but have lingering concerns, reach out to us at 1-855-417-. We offer no-pressure consultations to guide you in selecting the right equipment tailored to your needs.

Can You Store Gym Equipment Outside & How to Protect It.