If you’re looking for information on the best inversion table for the money, you’ve come to the right page.
Inversion therapy has existed since 400 B.C., when it was known as spinal traction and involved hanging upside down attached to a ladder.
This method is still used to relieve spinal pressure and ease back pain because it works well for many people.
However, people use inversion tables instead of ladders because they are infinitely safer and more comfortable.
They are also a practical piece of exercise equipment for doing ab exercises at home.
This article discusses the benefits of inversion therapy and the possible dangers.
It covers how inversion therapy works, how long you should be on an inversion table to get the best result, and looks at 5 top contenders for the best inversion table for the money.
Table of Contents
How inversion therapy works
Spinal discs separate our vertebrae, providing shock absorption and enabling us to move.
When we undertake high-impact exercises like running, the repeated pounding of our feet hitting the pavement can compress the discs.
The centers of these discs contain a jelly-like substance that can protrude under stress. When this happens, pressure is placed on the nerves, and a herniated or slipped disc can result.
Inversion therapy is a way of easing the pain that this causes.
When hanging upside down, the body’s weight gently tractions the spine, causing it to elongate slightly. In this position, there is more space between the vertebrae and less pressure on the nerve roots and discs.
Additionally, moving up and down on an inversion therapy table forces waste out and draws in a fluid that protects the discs. The result is relief from back pain.
How long should you be on an inversion table?
If you are new to inversion therapy, you are probably wondering how long you can safely hang upside down and if longer sessions bring better results.
There is no set schedule for inversion therapy. To help relieve the pain of a bad back, most people invert for one or two minutes three times daily, gradually increasing this to three to five minutes.
When you begin to experience relief, you can cut the frequency. However, in most instances, the relief will be temporary, so you will need to invert regularly to keep the pain at bay.
If you want to use the device to prevent back problems, a minimum of two to three times a week is a good starting point.
Benefits of inversion therapy
Following is a list of some of the benefits of inversion therapy.
- Relaxes the back muscles and increases blood flow through them, reducing the incidence of pain
- Helps to realign the spine
- Strengthens the back
- Tones and strengthens the abs
- Improves posture and can aid with conditions such as lordosis and scoliosis
- Improves blood circulation to the brain
- Can assist in waste product removal via the lymphatic system
Who inversion therapy may not suit
While it has many positives, there are also some potential dangers of inversion therapy.
Individuals with the following conditions should consult a medical professional before using inversion therapy equipment.
- Pregnancy
- High blood pressure
- Heart or circulatory disorders
- Recent stroke
- Glaucoma
- Retinal detachment
- Conjunctivitis
- Spinal injury
- Cerebral sclerosis
- Unhealed fractures
- Support implants
- Medullary pins
- Osteoporosis
- Swollen joints
- A Hiatal or Ventral hernia
- Conditions that require the use of anticoagulants
- An ear infection
- Extreme obesity
Next, we will look at 5 of the best available inversion tables.
Video outlining the Benefits of Inversion Therapy and the Potential Dangers
5 of the Best Inversion Tables for the Money
Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table
Who will it best suit?
Many users consider the The Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table to be the best health and fitness aid of its type for the money.
Mid-priced, it should suit you if you are looking for a reliable unit with a higher-than-average user-weight capacity that is safe and comfortable to use.
Specs:
Dimensions – Assembled, the Ironman 4000 Inversion Table measures 49″ (L) x 26″ (W) x 65″ (H)
Folded dimensions – Folded, it measures 26″ (W) x 17″ (H) x 49″ (D)
Weight – It weighs 75 lbs
User weight – Its maximum user weight is 350 pounds
User height – The frame adjusts to suit users from 4′ 9″ to 6′ 6″
Warranty – This model comes with a 1-year warranty on its frame, and 90 days on parts and workmanship
Product overview:
The best-selling Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table is a solid contender for the best inversion table for the money. While it doesn’t offer the bells and whistles of some, it provides everything most people will need at a low price.
With its broad powder-coated U-shaped steel frame and non-skid rubber stabilizers, the table is highly durable and stable, so you can use it without fear of tipping.
It is also comfortable, courtesy of its 2 1/2″ thick vinyl-covered memory-foam lumbar pillow.
Cushioned ankle locks, easy-to-access foam-covered safety handles, and vinyl safety covers with reinforced stitching add to the safety and comfort of the unit.
The Ironman 4000 Inversion Table folds to store; however, it is not easy to move, so it’s best to set it up in a dedicated space.
Assembly time for most people is between sixty and ninety minutes. Clear instructions and a wrench and screwdriver are included.
Teeter EP 560 Inversion Table
Who will it best suit?
If you’re looking to buy the best inversion table for back pain, consider the Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Table.
Also known as the Teeter EP 560 Inversion Table, this model suits those looking for a unit that doesn’t cost a fortune and comes with a few extras and a solid warranty.
Specs:
Dimensions – Assembled, the Teeter EP 560 Inversion Table measures 84″ x 86″ x 28.8″
Folded dimensions – Folded, it measures 20″ x 28.8″ x 66″
Weight – It weighs 65 lbs
User Weight – The maximum user weight for this model is 300 pounds
User height – The frame adjusts to suit users between 4′ 8″ and 6′ 8″
Warranty – The warranty for this model is five years for parts and labor
Product overview:
If you’re a fan of late-night television, you have probably seen the Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Table range advertised.
There are a number of models in the range, all of which have excellent feedback, with many buyers believing that the brand offers the best inversion table for back pain.
Here, we will look at the Teeter EP 560 Inversion Table. Coming with many of the features of the more expensive models in the range, it costs about half the price.
FDA registered, it can help relieve muscular tension and spasms and ease sciatica and pain from herniated discs.
Made from resilient heat-treated carbon steel, this model comes with Teeter’s ComforTrak bed design which flexes when you do for more comfortable sessions with minimal friction.
The bed features an adjustable lumbar bridge for improved traction and additional support.
Eight acupressure nodes provide extra pain relief.
Grip-and-stretch handles enable extra stretch, with your chosen level able to be set before your sessions.
Add-on accessories that can be used with the EP 560 Inversion Table include a vibration cushion and EZ-Up gravity boots.
Automatically locking hinges ensure your safety, as does a unique ankle cup design and an adjustable strap system.
Arriving almost entirely assembled, the Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Table can be ready to use in 15 minutes or less.
Along with written instructions, there’s a DVD and the required assembly tools.
The table is easy to fold if you want to store it.
Health Mark Pro Max Inversion Table
Who will it Best Suit?
If cost isn’t an issue and you want to enjoy the ultimate inversion therapy sessions, the Health Mark Pro Inversion Table is the way to go.
Doubling as a massage table, its features and functions will appeal to even the fussiest people.
A very generous user weight limit makes it perfect for heavy-set people.
Specs:
Dimensions – Assembled, the Health Mark Pro Max Inversion table measures 28″ (W) x 58″ (H) x 45″ (D)
Weight – It weighs 96 lbs
User weight – The maximum user weight for this model is 600 pounds
Warranty – It comes with a 1-year warranty
Product overview:
The Health Mark Pro Inversion Table was designed for use in professional therapy centers. It proved so popular that it was made available to the public.
It costs considerably more than some of the other models in this best inversion table list, but it’s extra features are worth paying more for.
With this versatile model, one of few home-use non-motorized inversion tables on the market, you can position yourself face-down for inversion therapy and massage sessions or face-up to do ab exercises.
Constructed from heavy-grade tubular steel and able to support up to 600 pounds, the Health Mark Promax Inversion Table is the sturdiest piece of inversion therapy equipment you will find for home use, and it has the highest user weight limit.
It is also one of the most comfortable, courtesy of a plush foam back support, padded knee and thigh supports, and a luxurious crescent-shaped head/face rest.
The table’s arched handlebars are easy to grip and reach. Softly textured rear and front-facing ankle supports will further enhance your sessions’ comfort. The supports incorporate a lock latch system, ensuring your safety.
The only downside of this model is that it doesn’t fold for storage, so you will need to find a space for it and leave it there.
Body Champ IT8070 Inversion Table
Who will it best suit?
The Body Champ IT8070 Inversion Table is a basic, comfortable-to-use, safe, and affordable model.
It will also satisfy anyone seeking a very lightweight inversion table that is quick to fold.
Specs:
Dimensions – Assembled, the Body Champ IT8070 Inversion Table measures 55.5″ (L) x 29.5″ (W) x 57.78″ (H)
Folded dimensions – Folded, it measures 13″ (L) x 29″ (W) x 75″ ( H)
Weight – It weighs 50 lbs
User weight – The maximum user weight for this model is 250 pounds
User height – This model accommodates users from 4′ 7″ to 6′ 8″ tall
Warranty – It comes with a 1-year warranty on its frame, and 90 days on parts
Product overview:
This Body Champ Inversion Table proves that an inversion table that does the job can be had for a reasonable price.
The unit is as sturdy, stable, and as comfortable as some that cost considerably more.
Its high-density foam back support provides adequate cushioning, as do its four foam rollers, which cushion the ankles.
The inversion angle is selected through a dual-pin, with ankle adjustments using a spring-loaded system.
The U-shaped handrails are easy to grip, and they add to the security of your sessions, as does a safety strap.
The assembly instructions could be a little clearer; however, you should be set up in 30 minutes or less, with the tools needed to do the job included.
Exerpeutic Inversion Table with Comfort Foam Backrest
Who will it best suit?
The Exerpeutic Inversion Table is a good choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and functional inversion table.
Specs:
Dimensions – The Exerpeutic Inversion Table measures 46″ x 27″ x 57″
Weight – It weighs 55 lbs
Inversion options – It has a maximum user weight of 300 pounds
User height – This model can accommodate users between 4′ 10″ and 6′ 6″
Warranty – The warranty covers 1-year for the frame and 90 days for parts
Product overview:
If you’re happy with a no-frills model, this Exerpeutic Inversion table could be the best inversion table for the money.
Its 1 1/2″ square steel frame is sturdy and stable, and the unit folds for storage.
The table has 3/4″ of vinyl-covered foam padding. Operating through a pull-pin system, combination foam roller/ankle cushions hold feet and ankles securely in place.
Easy-to-access full-loop foam-covered safety handles are lengthy and comfortable to grip. A tether strap controls the angle of inversion.
Assembly takes most people thirty to forty-five minutes, with the tools for this process coming with your purchase.
Final Words on the Best Inversion Table for the Money
The best inversion table for you will depend on your reason for doing inversion therapy, be that to relieve back pain, prevent it, or exercise your abs.
All models discussed in this article are safe to use, sturdy, and durable.
If you aim to help prevent back pain and exercise your abs, one of the budget-priced models should suffice.
If you suffer from chronic back problems and plan to use the device often, one of the high-end models may be the best inversion table for your needs.