If you don't know what an elliptical machine or cross trainer is, then don't bother trying to buy one. Also, don’t buy used elliptical machines for someone else. They really need to try it out to see if it is comfortable for them. Also, before embarking on any exercise program, you really should talk to your doctor. If you have problems with standing, balance or muscle coordination, then new or used elliptical machines may not be dangerous for you.

Buy It For Yourself

You really need to try out any used elliptical machine to see if the stride length, power source used and pedaling action are comfortable for you. As a general rule, the cheaper the used elliptical machine, the more uncomfortable it will be to pedal. As another general rule, the longer the stride on the machine, the easier the pedaling action for the user.

New elliptical machines tend to have warranties and refund policies, while used elliptical machines don't. Sometimes, depending on what online service you use, you can get very short 90 day warranties. Once you bought it, it's yours, whether you like it or not. Take that in mind before you buy. Also, predetermine where in the house it will go before buying. If it is incredibly heavy, then perhaps the floor might not be able to hold it up.

Online Shopping

One of the advantages of online sporting goods stores selling used elliptical machines is that they often have low cost or free shipping. This saves you quite a headache in transportation, depending on how big and heavy the model of your used elliptical machine turns out to be. Many online sites can provide inexpensive but high quality used elliptical machines because they don't have the overhead costs like real world stores do.

The disadvantage, of course, is that you can't try out the prospective used elliptical machine before you buy. However, if you get to try some models out at a gym or a sporting goods store, make note of the models and look to see if you can find the ones you liked at used sporting goods and exercise equipment sites.

You might also want to look into places that sell used elliptical machines from bank repossessions. Whenever a borrower defaults on a a loan to the point where the bank has to sell what they can in order to pay off the loan, you can find high quality nearly new exercise equipment.