Where to Donate
Fitness Equipment

Fifteen places that may take treadmills, bikes, weights and mats, plus how to get a heavy machine out when nobody will take it.

Chicago guide · Pickups from the $129 minimum

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15 places to donate fitness equipment

1

Local schools

Athletic departments, PE programs and coaches, especially underfunded schools. Best for dumbbells, benches, mats and bands. Tip: email the athletic director or coach directly.

2

Colleges & universities

Club sports, ROTC programs and community colleges. Contact the recreation office first.

3

Youth clubs & community centers

Boys & Girls Clubs, after-school programs and neighborhood centers. Best for mats, light weights and stationary bikes.

4

Independent gyms

Boxing gyms, martial arts schools and training studios are more flexible than chain gyms.

5

YMCA locations

Policies vary by branch. Call the local Y before loading up.

6

Goodwill

Often fine for small gear. Many stores won't take treadmills, ellipticals or home gym systems.

7

The Salvation Army

Accepted items vary by region. Large cardio machines are hit or miss.

8

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Depends entirely on the local store. Ask specifically about your item.

9

Shelters & recovery homes

Exercise bikes, mats and light weights can support daily routines.

10

Rehab & physical therapy clinics

Clean, low-impact gear such as bands, balance balls and light weights.

11

Fire departments

Station gyms, especially volunteer departments, may take heavy-duty equipment in good condition.

12

Police & public safety groups

Start with the community liaison officer.

13

Veteran organizations

VFW posts, American Legion halls and veteran wellness programs.

14

Play It Again Sports

Not a charity. It buys and trades gear, so you can sell and donate the cash.

15

Free listing sites

Freecycle, Nextdoor, Craigslist's free section and Marketplace. List it as "free, pickup only" with the size, weight and stairs.

Before you donate

  • Clean it: wipe down handles, seats, pads and frames
  • Test it: run the treadmill and try every incline and resistance level
  • Take clear photos, including close-ups of any wear
  • Measure it: height, width, length and weight
  • Call first: rules change by location, especially for large machines
  • Ask about pickup: heavy equipment rarely qualifies

When nobody will take it

If donation isn't an option, we can pick up treadmills, ellipticals, bikes and weight sets, with exercise equipment starting at $150. See more ways to get rid of exercise equipment.

Item or loadStarting price
Exercise equipment (per item)$150

Starting price from our pricing page.

Where to Donate Fitness Equipment: FAQ

Will Goodwill take a treadmill?

Often not. Many locations won't take large cardio machines. Call your nearest store first.

What's the fastest way to rehome a heavy machine?

List it free on Marketplace, Nextdoor or Freecycle as pickup only, with the dimensions, weight and stairs noted.

What if no one wants it?

We can pick it up. Exercise equipment removal starts at $150.

Rather skip the hauling?

Send a photo and we'll confirm the price. Our crew does all the lifting.

Call (312) 521-0935Get my quote
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