Today’s busy and stressful lifestyle undeniably takes its toll on our body. Sitting for long hours, carrying heavy bags, strenuous exercise, and even poor posture all contribute to back pain.
As diverse as its causes, there are also different treatment approaches. Some seek the help of physical therapists and chiropractors while others resort to meditation or yoga.
And then there’s inversion therapy.
Inversion therapy is fast gaining popularity as an effective back pain remedy. It involves positioning your body upside down so that the head is lower than the heart.
It reverses the effect of gravity to take the pressure off the nerves and disks in the spine, therefore relieving back pain. Furthermore, it helps ease stress, improve joint health, and increase flexibility.
It may sound intimidating but you can achieve these benefits using your very own inversion table, right from the comfort of your home.
This article will guide you as you start your journey towards better back health.
We will help you choose what features suit your fitness goals and let you in on the cream of the crop – the best models that emerged from our rigorous evaluations. We will enlighten you further as we answer some frequently asked questions.
Let’s get down to the details, shall we?
Best Inversion Tables Compared
| Image | Name | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Weight and Height Capacity | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Check Price |
Teeter EP-970 Ltd | 60" x 29" x 58.5" | 300 lbs.
4'8" - 6'6" |
$$$$$ | 10 / 10 |
 Check Price |
Ironman Gravity 4000 | 49" x 26" x 65" | 350 lbs.
4'9" - 6'6" |
$$ | 9.8 / 10 |
 Check Price |
Innova ITX9700 | 46" x 28" x 63" | 300 lbs.
4'10" - 6'6" |
$$ | 9.7 / 10 |
 Check Price |
Teeter EP-560 Ltd | 60" x 29" x 58.5" | 300 lbs.
4'8" - 6'6" |
$$$$ | 9.7 / 10 |
 Discontinued |
Ironman LX300 | 46.5" x 27" x 57" | 275 lbs.
4'10" - 6'6" |
$ | 9.2 / 10 |
Inversion Tables: Key Features To Look For
Once you have decided to give this type of therapy a try, the next step is listing down the fine print. As you search for your own table, what characteristics are non-negotiable? What features are good to have but you can do without?
Refer to these criteria to make sure that you make an intelligent decision.
1. Durability
There is no question that the number one feature to look for in an inversion table is sturdiness or durability. In your desire to treat back pain, you wouldn’t want to risk injuring yourself further. Look for a heavy-duty metal frame that has a solid construction.
2. Safety Features
Closely related to the previous item and also non-negotiable is the table’s safety features. It should have secure but comfortable ankle holders, specified weight limit of at least 250 lbs., height adjustment feature, and ergonomic safety handles.
3. Comfort
A good table has a comfortable surface. Some have padded backrests while others are made of flexible material that molds the shape of your back with every stretch or movement. A headrest and a lumbar bar are also useful.
4. Convenience
Since this practice is ideally done for a few minutes every day, having a unit that you can easily set up is an advantage. Look for one that is stable but easy to assemble. Most are also foldable so you can quickly store them when not in use.
5. Add-ons
If your budget is flexible, you can opt for more expensive tables that utilize infrared heating technology for a more soothing experience.
Top Inversion Tables
Although they may not be a major financial investment, it is still best to choose wisely. And choosing from a very wide selection can be a daunting task.
You are one step ahead because we already assessed each of them for you. After a comprehensive evaluation, we proudly present the distinguished list of the top tables.
1. Teeter EP-970 Ltd.
Try Googling “inversion tables” and Teeter Hang-ups will surely be one of the top search results. It is not surprising that one of its bestsellers, the Teeter EP-970 Ltd, emerged on top of our list.
From its components to its construction, it clearly demonstrates superior quality. In addition, its solid structure is fused with numerous comfort elements.
Its safe and comfortable ankle holders have an EZ reach release system – such a valuable feature when even the slightest back bending is a chore in itself!
The ComforTrak Bed flexes with your movements so you can fully stretch without being limited by a solid backrest. It also has a removable head pillow, a lumbar bridge, and height-adjustable Accupressure Nodes for pressure-point muscle relief.
More than helping you get back to the upright position, the traction handles have a push button that easily releases you from full inversion.
Whether you prefer a mild inversion or you like going completely upside down, controlling the rotation is very easy. You simply adjust the tether strap to the preset markings at 20, 40 or 60 degrees. Height settings can also be adjusted.
This easy-to-install table is also foldable for effortless storage.
If you won’t settle for anything less than the best, don’t think twice about getting the Teeter EP-970 Ltd. Learn more in our detailed Teeter EP-970 review.
2. Ironman Gravity 4000
Coming in closely at second place is the Ironman Gravity 4000.
At almost 1/3 the price of the Teeter EP-960 Ltd, it can rival more expensive products in terms of form and function.
Ironman Fitness puts premium on stability and safety. No wonder that the Gravity 4000 has one of the highest user weight capacities. It has a tough steel frame with rubber floor stabilizers so the table keeps steady while you invert. There is an adjustable safety tether strap to control the maximum angle of inversion. You or your little ones don’t have to worry about your fingers being caught because the sides are also covered with vinyl.
While the ankle holders can be made more comfortable, its easy-reach locking system is a pleasant feature. Other comfort features include its multi-layer memory foam backrest, extra-long, foam-covered handles, user height options, and a removable lumbar pillow for extra lower back support.
If you are looking for affordability that is complemented by strong construction, safety and comfort, the Ironman Gravity 4000 is the best inversion table for you. Learn more in our full Ironman Gravity review.
3. Innova ITX9700
Another affordable, but high-quality table that made it to our top 5 list is the Innova ITX9700.
With all its helpful features, it can be hard to believe that it costs as little as it does!
Assembly is uncomplicated and it’s very easy to use. Once completely set-up, you can hop on it, immediately feel how stable and sturdy it is and achieve the benefits of inversion therapy.
While uncomfortable ankle restraint is one of the most common flaws of these tables, you can say goodbye to that trouble with the Innova ITX 9700. Its ankle holders feel snug even with bare feet.
Its height settings can be easily adjusted to meet your needs. It also has a 4-position side pin for easy and accurate inversion management. And let me add that inversion is really smooth!
Its large memory-foam backrest has a removable head pillow. Best of all, you can soothe your back even more with its lumbar pad that can be used for hot or cold compresses.
The Innova ITX9700 provides good value for money.
Check out our more detailed review of this amazing inversion table.
4. Teeter EP-560 Ltd.
The fourth best table on the market today is the Teeter EP-560 Ltd.
Like other Teeter products, setting it up is easy. You can finish assembly in few easy steps and it even comes with a Getting Started DVD with 5 bonus exercise routines.
You will feel safe while inverting on the Teeter EP-560 Ltd. It is quite bulky but it compensates by being very stable and sturdy.
Set it according to your height requirement and you can easily balance and control your movements by simply moving your arms.
You also don’t need to keep estimating how far you want to be inverted because its tether strap has settings to mark mild, average, and full inversion.
Its comfortable backrest allows you to relax and focus on just how good the spinal decompression feels. It even has nodes that you an adjust to target specific pressure points.
Learn more in our review of the Teeter EP-560 Ltd.
5. Ironman LX300
NOTE: This model has unfortunately been discontinued.
Rounding up the top 5 inversion tables is the Ironman LX300.
Despite being very affordable, Ironman Fitness did not cut back on the quality of this table. In fact, it is both sturdy and comfortable.
The square frame is made of heavy-duty steel that stays stable while inverting. Its ankle holders are quite comfortable and you can stay relaxed with its soft foam backrest.
While some people prefer sophisticated features, there are also those that go for simple, uncomplicated machines like the Ironman LX300.
Its ankle holders have a pull-pin mechanism for quick release. The height setting is also easy to adjust based on your needs.
Although it has a slightly lower weight capacity, it can still be used by most body types.
For those who want an affordable and basic table that can get the job done, you will be happy with the Ironman LX300.
Read our full LX300 review for more information.
Honorable Mentions
Considering how the above fared against our criteria, it was difficult to come up with only 5 products in this notable list. Hence, we awarded runner-up honors to 2 more inversion tables.
6. Ironman IFT1000
It’s difficult not to include the Ironman IFT1000 in the list of good tables. Why? Because relishing the benefits of inversion and infrared heat technology at the same time is just fantastic!
This strongly constructed table may be a bit bulky but it also gives you the confidence that you can invert safely. It is also easy to balance so inversion is smooth and effortless.
The ankle holders are ergonomically designed for comfort so there is no need to wear shoes or special boots.
You can control the inversion using a tether strap while the handles on the sides help you get back up.
The biggest selling point of the Ironman IFT1000 is its Far Infrared (F.I.R.) Heat Therapy-enabled backrest.
It relaxes the back and soothes minor muscle pain through the natural and gentle heat it emits. You can also set your desired temperature and duration using the remote control. Guaranteed safe, totally relaxing, and definitely convenient.
If you want to integrate heat technology with inversion therapy, the Ironman IFT1000 is a wise choice.
Check out a more detailed review of the IFT1000.
7. Ironman Gravity 1000
The other runner-up finisher is another product from Ironman Fitness, the Gravity 1000.
Although it comes in many parts and assembly can be a challenge, the end product is secure with an extra-wide steel frame and rubber floor stabilizers.
The Gravity 1000 is quite affordable, but it covers the most important aspects of an inversion table.
It has a comfortable nylon backrest, a decent weight capacity and an easy height adjustment method. It can also be folded for convenient storage.
While ankle locks and release mechanism are areas for improvement, its overall quality and performance still make it an effective option.
One other major disadvantage is that it is quite bulky.
For some, this will not be a problem, but if you suffer from serious backpain or are otherwise limited in terms of mobility and strength, you might want to opt for a lighter and more portable model.
If you are not sure whether this is the right inversion table for you, our full Ironman Gravity 1000 review has much more information.
Types Of Inversion Tables
It would be easier to know what product is best for you if you know the general categories that they belong to.
Based on how inversion is executed, the tables can be manual or automatic.
A manual table uses your weight to tilt and operate the equipment. It usually requires the use of your arms to control its movement. On the other hand, an automatic table has a motor that helps you control the degree of inversion. This allows you to freely stretch your arms without any effect on the table’s function.
You can also choose between fixed and portable ones. Portable tables are usually smaller and lighter. They also fold easily for storage. Keep this in mind: whether fixed or portable, all of them must be strong enough to support your body weight.
There are products that also incorporate the use of infrared heat technology. This powerful combination is helpful in relaxing sore muscles and increasing blood flow.
Top Inversion Table Brands
For many years, two names have been considered as the powerhouse in manufacturing machines that help people achieve their fitness goals. True enough, they have proven to produce the best inversion tables on the market today.
Teeter Hang Ups
The Teeter Hang Ups story began with a personal quest for back pain relief.
Ever since Roger Teeter tried inversion therapy at a water ski event in 1980, he and his wife started manufacturing and selling inversion products. Their aim was to help more people find natural relief from back pain.
Today, they continue to produce inversion equipment and accessories that have specialized and patented features. The company espouses superior quality and ensures that their products pass strict certification standards.
Teeter tables are known to be easy to assemble and user-friendly. The table even comes with a downloadable application and a Getting Started DVD with 5 bonus healthy back routines.
They also have a comfortable backrest with accessories like adjustable Accupressure nodes and a lumbar pillow for added relief.
Indeed, Teeter Hang Ups deserves to be recognized as one of the top inversion table brands.
Ironman Fitness
Ironman Fitness is known for manufacturing topnotch training machines, whether for triathlon preparation or simply keeping an active and healthy lifestyle.
The company maintains the highest standards through engineering and lab testing. And these superior machines usually come in very reasonable prices!
Their tables commonly have solid frames, comfortable backrests, a tether strap for inversion control and extra-long handles for easy return to the upright position.
Aside from inversion tables, it also has stationary bikes, elliptical trainers, weigh benches and power cages.
If it’s an Ironman, you are sure that it’s a fine piece of equipment.
Buying An Inversion Table: Other Things To Consider
Are you still wondering if inversion therapy is for you? We have compiled this list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to help you figure that out.
1. What are the benefits?
It is great for reducing back pain. But do you know that other areas of the body can also benefit from it? When you invert, you get neck, joint and muscle pain relief, lymph system cleansing, blood circulation improvement, posture correction, and spinal decompression.
2. Is it safe for everyone?
While inversion therapy is generally safe and has numerous benefits, people with certain conditions are cautioned against it. If you are pregnant or if you have heart/circulatory disorders, hypertension, extreme obesity, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, or spinal injury, consult your doctors before trying it.
3. How long should I invert?
Beginners should start slowly and carefully. 10-20 degrees for 1-2 minutes during the first 2 weeks will do. Once you become more comfortable inverting, you can work up to 60 degrees for longer periods of time. Remember that inverting for more than 30 minutes is not necessary.
4. Is inversion therapy painful?
As long as you don’t have any of the contraindications or are given clearance from your doctor, there should be no reason for to be painful or uncomfortable. Furthermore, remember to assemble the table correctly, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, and build up the duration and degree of inversion gradually to make sure that you do not encounter any problem while inverting.
5. What are the limitations of inversion tables?
Inversion tables have different weight limits but most tables have a user weight capacity of 300 lbs. Height adjustment is also a common feature, with the tallest setting usually at 6’6″.
Inversion Table Tutorial: Safe, Short & Simple Routine
Best Inversion Table: Conclusion
It is common to hear one thing from people who finally got their own inversion tables: I wish I had known about this amazing equipment years ago!
There’s just so much to love about having one at home. You can hop on anytime of the day and you instantly do your back and, as you probably know by now, a lot of other body parts as well, a very big favor. Most tables are very easy to assemble and even easier to use. You have the power to adjust the height and inversion control settings to suit your preference. They even fold for convenient storage.
You do not need to worry about security and comfort because inversion table manufacturers, especially Teeter Hang-ups and Ironman Fitness, have you covered. Secure and comfortable ankle holders, relaxing backrests, and long, foam-covered handles mean you are well taken care of.
Get the Teeter EP-970 Ltd now and your future healthier self will definitely thank you for it!
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