While some states have weather that doesn’t always favour an outdoor workout, exercising outdoors is an increasingly popular way to stay fit and healthy. Setting up outdoor gym equipment is an easy way to access the benefits of machine-powered exercise, while also saving money on extortionate gym membership fees. However, it is important to take steps to protect your outdoor gym equipment from damage from the elements, vandalism, and even theft.
How to protect outdoor gym equipment!
Secure your Equipment
One of the easiest ways you can protect your outdoor gym equipment from theft is by securely anchoring all pieces of outdoor gym equipment in concrete or asphalt – this means that they won’t be easily moved by vandals, thieves, or strong winds. Make sure that all connecting bolts are secured tightly – hire a professional if you’re not sure how to do it yourself. While this can be expensive or lengthy to do, it will ensure the longevity of your outdoor gym equipment by protecting it from theft.
Regular Maintenance
Another important part of protecting your gym equipment is to regularly inspect it for signs of wear and tear, or damage from the elements such as rusting or corrosion. If necessary, contact a professional for repairs or replacements before bigger problems arise. Things to look out for include loose bolts, the development of rust, faulty or cracked machine frames, and damaged paint.
Use Protective Coatings
If you can’t anchor the equipment in concrete or asphalt, consider applying protective coatings to the metal surfaces of gym equipment. This will help protect it from corrosion and rusting caused by moisture and humidity (aka rain and heat). You can use the same powdered coating used on aluminium gates, which protects against environmentally-induced oxidation and rust.
Cover your Equipment
One easy and low-cost way to protect outdoor gym equipment is to cover them when not in use. You can find specially-made covers to protect items such as dumbells and treadmills, and you can always improvise with a tarpaulin or plastic sheet if you don’t yet have professional coverings.
