Inversion tables can help reduce back pain, increase circulation and promote general good health, particularly for your spine. However, place two inversion therapy tables side-by-side and at first glance, it can often be difficult to tell them apart much less know which one is right for you. That’s why we’re here to help you sort through the options to find the best inversion table for you.

 

5 Minutes, 5 Key Decisions

• Key Decision 1: Inversion Table Type
• Key Decision 2: Backboard Material
• Key Decision 3: Arm Assists
• Key Decision 4: Ankle Restraint System
• Key Decision 5: Special Features

 

Key Decision 1: Inversion Table Type 

Although ‘inversion tables’ is a general term used to refer to most inversion equipment, there are actually several different types.  And because each type is designed to support your body in particular position, which is best for you depends on which inversion position you find most comfortable.

 

IMPORTANT: Consult your physician before beginning inversion therapy to make sure it’s right for you.

 

Inversion Table – The most popular type of inversion therapy equipment, standard inversion tables consist of a flat, tilting board mounted to a base.  By securing your ankles to one end, you can then invert your body so that your feet are positioned above your head.

>> View Inversion Tables

 

Inversion Bench – Unlike standard inversion tables, inversion benches allow inversion without elevating your feet over your head.  Inversion benches feature a curved bench that supports your body as you bend backwards and are ideal for many who are uncomfortable with being suspended upside down.

>> View Inversion Benches

 

Inversion Chair – Inversion chairs allow you to invert while in a seated position, which often makes it easier and more comfortable for newcomers to get used to inversion therapy.  And, inversion chairs enable people with certain medical conditions to benefit from inversion therapy if they can’t lay flat.

>> View Inversion Chairs

 

Back Trainer – In addition to being used as back stretchers, back trainers are also used for performing back exercises to strengthen your back muscles.  Back trainers enable you to anchor your legs and use your back muscles to lift your upper body, which is similar to how doing sit ups strengthens your abs.

>> View Back Trainers

 

Key Decision 2: Backboard Material

Inversion tables for back pain, professional athletic training and general relaxation often vary in design, especially with regards to their backboard.  Each backboard offers a different level of support, so be sure to choose an inversion table that features the right kind of backboard for you.

 

Basic Nylon Mat – Ideally suited for professional athletes, inversion tables that feature basic nylon matting for a backboard provide firm support and a breathable surface to help cool your back when you perspire.  And, the nylon matting can usually be removed for easy washing.

>> View Inversion Tables with Basic Nylon Mats

 

Basic Padding – These backboards consist of a solid material such as wood that’s padded with filling and then covered with a cloth material such as vinyl.  These backboards provide comfortable yet firm support and are usually easy to wipe down after use.

>> View Inversion Tables with Basic Padding

 

Deluxe Padding – Backboards with deluxe padding are similar to those with basic padding but with plush or contoured upholstery for additional comfort.  Some inversion table models also include additional features such as infrared heating to help make inversion therapy more effective at relieving severe back pain.

>> View Inversion Tables with Deluxe Padding

 

Flex Technology – Unique to Teeter inversion tables, these contoured plastic backboards are made from inject plastic molds for maximum support, especially when using the inversion table for abdominal workouts.  And, the plastic backboard is breathable, durable and easy to clean.

>> View Inversion Tables with Flex Technology

 

Key Decision 3: Arm Assists

Inversion tables must be just as comfortable to get out of as they are to use, and that includes how easy the arm assists make it to get on and off the table.  Depending on your preferred level of inversion and your level of conditioning, decide which type of arm assists is best for you.

 

Short Hand Grips – Short hand grips are located at the apex of the support frame and are designed primarily to help you get on and off the inversion table rather than pull yourself up from the invert.  For folding inversion tables, this type of grips can help keep the inversion table compact when folded up.

>> View Inversion Tables with Short Hand Grips

 

Wrap Around Bars – These are longer handles that curve farther downward and are designed to be accessible at any point during inversion.  Inversion tables with wrap around bars are better for those who are new to inversion therapy or may need assistance getting out of the invert.

>> View Inversion Tables with Wrap Around Bars

 

Key Decision 4: Ankle Restraint System

Because most inversion tables suspend you from your ankles, you need to choose one with the right ankle restraint system.  Each design offers its own range of comfort and, depending on your physical condition, may be easier to adjust than others.

 

Basic Ankle Clamp – Basic ankle clamps are padded, locking cuffs that wrap around your ankles and securely hold you in place during inversion.  Because these ankle restraints are pre-shaped, they are best suited for those with normal sized ankles.

>> View Inversion Tables with Basic Ankle Clamps

 

Double Foam Roller – This type of ankle restraint system holds your ankles securely between two cushioned, foam-covered bars.  Some ankle restraints with double foam rollers require you to pull a spring-loaded knob or pin to set or release the lock while others feature an Easy Release Handle.

>> View Inversion Tables with Double Foam Rollers

 

Padded Locking Bar – The most comfortable type of ankle restraint system, padded locking bars feature thick padding around curved bars that secure against the front of your ankles.  These ankle restraints are ideal for any ankle size and depending on the inversion table model, may also feature Easy Release Handles.

>> View Inversion Tables with Padded Locking Bars

 

Key Decision 5: Special Features

Many inversion tables and inversion chairs include additional features to make inversion therapy easier, more comfortable and more effective.  Once you know what type of inversion equipment you need, consider choosing one that offers one or more of these special features.

 

Easy Release Handle – Easy Release Handles consist of a ratcheting system that features an easy-to-reach handle.  This handle usually reaches to approximately knee level and makes it easier for those with severe back pain or limited mobility to lock and unlock their ankles.

>> View Inversion Tables with Easy Release Handles

 

Motorized – Rather than use your body weight to generate tilt, motorized inversion tables use a motor to create a smoother, more controlled invert.  Motorized inversion tables allow for a more precise degree of inversion and are well suited for those who suffer from severe back pain.

>> View Motorized Inversion Tables

 

Ab Lockout – For those who use their inversion table to exercise their abdominal muscles, some inversion tables include an ab lockout feature.  Ab lockout locks the table in the inverted position so that it stays still as you exercise.

>> View Inversion Tables with Ab Lockout

 

With DVD – Some inversion equipment include an instructional DVD to show exactly how to use the inversion table or inversion chair, which is particularly useful for those who are new to inversion therapy and may appreciate the additional information.

>> View Inversion Tables with DVD

 

Heated – Heated inversion tables feature a heated backboard for increased muscle relaxation during inversion therapy.  These inversion tables can prove especially helpful for those who suffer from moderate to severe back pain.

>> View Heated Inversion Tables

 

Folding – Because not everyone has the room for a dedicated inversion stretch station, folding inversion tables are specifically designed to easily fold up and store away.  Folding inversion tables are often basic, budget-friendly and feature short hand grips.

>> View Folding Inversion Tables

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