I’ve seen a lot of buzz lately around renting fitness equipment like ellipticals, treadmills, and exercise bikes. While it sounds convenient on the surface, I personally don’t think it’s a good idea—especially if you live in a small home like I do.

First of all, space is a real issue. These machines are bulky and take up a lot of room. Moving them in and out is a hassle, and if your home doesn’t have a dedicated corner for them, they just become an obstacle in your living space. Not to mention, getting something like an elliptical up and down the stairs can be a nightmare.

Then there's the cost. I looked into renting an elliptical and a cycling machine recently—both were priced between ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 per month. That’s the same (or even more) than a full gym membership! For ₹1,500 a month at my local gym, I get access to all kinds of equipment, weights, cardio machines, and even a trainer on some days.

Plus, being in a gym environment keeps me more motivated. At home, it’s easy to slack off or get distracted. So for me, the gym offers more value and a better overall experience, without sacrificing space or spending extra on delivery and setup.

If you’ve got the room and need just one specific machine, maybe it makes sense. But for small homes and people who enjoy variety, I honestly think a gym membership is a smarter and more practical choice.

Would love to hear if anyone else has had a different experience with fitness rentals!