Owning home exercise equipment is very useful when you want to stay in shape without joining a gym. However, you may find that you need to move some or all of the pieces into storage to free up space for other belongings or because you're downsizing into a smaller home. Exercise equipment is expensive, so you make sure to store these valuable items properly. Here are some smart tips to follow.

How to Move Exercise Equipment Into Storage

1. Prioritize Safety

Safety should be your top priority when moving large or heavy items. Enlist the help of friends, relatives, or paid workers, so you aren't lifting pieces by yourself. Follow the method used to lift weights: never bend forward. Instead, squat down and lift the equipment close to your body. Stand up slowly by straightening your legs. When multiple people are involved, everyone should lift and stand at the same time. 

2. Clean Everything

Exercise equipment can get very dirty from a combination of sweat, body oils, dust, and other debris. Before putting pieces into storage, clean and disinfect them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Everything should be cleaned, including weights, mats, pedals, handles, bands, ropes, and rollers. Warm, soapy water should work on most surfaces, though an ammonia solution may be recommended in some cases. After cleaning items, dry them thoroughly. Some pieces, like an exercise bike, may need lubrication before storage.

3. Disassemble Large Items

Large exercise equipment pieces, like treadmills, may need to be disassembled partially or completely before they can be stored. Doing so can save you storage space, as well as make the moving process easier and safer. Before breaking down items, check that you still have the owner's manual, which can help you take the item apart correctly and later reassemble it. Keep small components, like screws and bolts, in a labeled container or bag. 

Keep your belongings in good shape at American Self Storage, which offers a wide variety of storage units throughout southeast Alabama. Each facility is protected by state-of-the-art, 24-hour security, and you can choose from a range of sizes. They have climate- and non-climate-controlled options to ensure your items have the right protection. To learn more about their services and find your nearest location, visit their website today.