Buying a used elliptical trainer can be a good decision if you do your homework. There are two ways to purchase a used elliptical machine. The first is to purchase it from a dealer, fitness center or fitness equipment service company. This is probably the best way to ensure that you will get a machine that is in good working order. Many times gyms and fitness centers will change equipment brands or they will upgrade their equipment. The dealer will then have the used elliptical machines to sell at a fairly good discount. Elliptical trainers that come from a fitness center usually are maintained by professional technicians and as such will generally be in better condition then those purchased from an individual.