When spring comes around, almost everyone gets into the cleaning spirit. From decluttering bedrooms to deep-cleaning floors, the spring season is the perfect time to rejuvenate your home. When you’re gearing up for a weekend of cleaning, your cardio equipment should definitely be on your to-do list! Just like your vehicle, your treadmill, rower, elliptical, or bike is an investment that needs routine cleaning and maintenance for optimal performance.
Taking the time to ensure that your equipment is clean and functional can add to its lifespan. Luckily, giving your cardio equipment TLC is relatively simple and doesn’t take much time. Not sure how to get started? Your user manual will have step-by-step instructions for both cleaning and routine maintenance. While tons of cleaning tutorials are available online from everyday people, it's important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you do not accidentally void the warranty. Follow these cleaning and maintenance guidelines from NordicTrack and ProForm to keep your fitness equipment running well!
Treadmill cleaning and maintenance
- Press the power switch into the off position. Then, unplug the power cord.
- With a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap, wipe the exterior parts of the treadmill (the handrails, accessory tray, foot rails, etc.). Do NOT spray cleaning solution or other liquids directly onto the treadmill.
- Spray a clean, soft cloth with a non-abrasive cleaner to wipe off the console.
- Dry the treadmill with a soft towel.
- Tighten all parts of the treadmill.
- Check to see if your treadmill needs lubrication. If no lubrication is required, skip to the last step. (These lubrication steps are provided by NordicTrack but can be applied to ProForm treadmills as well).
- Unplug the power cord.
- With an Allen wrench (or screwdriver), loosen the belt’s bolt. To locate this bolt on your specific treadmill, consult your user manual.
- Once the walking belt is loosened, lift it enough to place your hand under it. If your hand remains dry, lubrication is needed. If your hand has oil on it when you pull it back out, lubrication is not required at this time.
- To lubricate the treadmill, please order a maintenance kit from NordicTrack or ProForm.
- With the treadmill unplugged, loosen and lift the walking belt and apply the lubricant underneath. You can also watch this video tutorial.
- Place the belt back into position.
- Turn on the treadmill at a slow speed and allow it to run for about 5 minutes. This will help evenly distribute the lubricant on the underside of the belt.
- Turn the treadmill off and wipe away any excess lubricant.
- Tighten the walking belt back into place and plug the treadmill back into the power source.
- If you find that the walking belt has become worn or other parts of the treadmill are damaged, replace them immediately. Contact NordicTrack or ProForm for genuine replacement parts.
We also recommend cleaning your home gym throughout the year. Follow your user manual for the proper folding guidelines for the treadmill so that you may clean the floor and wipe the underside of the treadmill with a soft towel. This will allow you to clear the motor area of dust accumulation.
Bike cleaning and maintenance
- Unplug the power cord.
- With a damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent, wipe the exterior parts of the bike (the handlebars, seat, accessory tray, pedals, etc.).
- Apply a non-abrasive cleaner or water to a cloth and gently wipe the console. Do NOT spray cleaning solution directly onto the console.
- Dry the bike with a soft towel.
- Tighten all parts of the bike, examining the pedals, drive belt, and other areas of the machine for wear. Consult your user manual for detailed instructions on accessing the drive belt.
- If you notice any worn or damaged parts, replace them immediately. Contact NordicTrack or ProFrom for genuine replacement parts.
- While unplugged, move the bike away from the space to clean the area. Then, wheel it back into its normal position.
- Plug the bike back into the power source.
Rower cleaning and maintenance
- Unplug the power cord.
- With a damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent, wipe the exterior parts of the rower (the row bar, seat, rail, footrests, etc.).
- Apply a non-abrasive cleaner or water to a cloth and gently wipe the console. Do NOT spray cleaning solution directly onto the console.
- Dry the rower with a soft towel.
- Tighten all parts of the rower, but be sure not to overtighten. Inspect the strap, rail, wheels, and other parts of the rower for damage while tightening nuts and bolts.
- If you find worn parts, replace them immediately. Contact NordicTrack or ProForm for genuine replacement parts.
- Fold the rower according to the user manual instructions and move it out of the space. Clean the area and replace the rower.
- Plug the rower back into the power source.
Elliptical cleaning and maintenance
- Unplug the elliptical from the power source.
- With a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap, wipe the exterior of the elliptical. Clean the handlebars, accessory tray, pedals, stride rails, rollers, and other areas that accumulate sweat and dust.
- Apply a non-abrasive cleaner or water to a cloth and gently wipe the console. Do NOT spray cleaning solution directly onto the console.
- Dry the elliptical with a soft towel.
- Remove the plastic cover from the fan and gently vacuum to rid dust build-up. Replace the cover when finished.
- Tighten all movable parts of the elliptical. Inspect for wear and tear on the pedals.
- Replace any damaged parts immediately. Contact NordicTrack or ProForm for genuine replacement parts.
- Clean the area the elliptical occupies by moving it according to the user manual instructions. Then, move the elliptical in its original position.
- Plug the elliptical back into the power source.
Cleaning and maintaining your cardio equipment should take less than 30 minutes to complete, depending on the type of machine(s) you own. Try to get in the habit of cleaning your equipment not only in the spring but several times a year for optimal performance. Your user manual will have specific recommendations on the frequency of maintenance, depending on months and machine mileage. Make future cleanings more efficient by placing an equipment mat beneath your machine, which will protect your floors and make moving the machine a breeze!
Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFit assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.
