Best Inversion Table Australia - Reviewed
There's a lot of misleading information out there surrounding inversion tables, so let's set the record straight with a clear definition of what their purpose is and what exactly they are.
In the simplest of terms, an inversion table is a table that can flip you upside down at fluctuating angles to decrease spinal pressure and restore your discs, elongate muscles, and relieve tension. Normally, these tables have an upper portion that's padded, with lower bars to secure your legs into to keep you in place as you invert, or at times they also have ankle straps instead.
The concept behind these machines is that by laying in an inverted position or at an angle, you decompress your spine. Allowing the inflammation in your discs to decrease due to the release of spinal fluids. Over time your spine naturally compresses, especially when things such as demanding activities, everyday lifting of objects, and sports are taken into consideration. Lastly, besides elongating and stretching, you can also use inversion tables to perform a number of exercises, and some brands even have models with vibrations and thermal features that add to the experience and usability. Additional specs like a built-in electronic massager or heater can make a difference in the outcome of benefits you notice from using the inversion table, these add-ons can be extremely advantageous for individuals who suffer from chronic back pain.
A 2006 study at Newcastle University on inversion therapy took 22 patients all aged 25-44 and split them into two groups. One group receiving inversion therapy and the other not. All the patients had sciatic disc protrusion. The results showed the inversion therapy group had fewer chances of requiring surgery compared to the non-inversion therapy group.
It's extremely important to choose the best inversion table for your unique situation and body if you want to self-treat with this form of therapy effectively and safely. Different models of inversion tables are designed to specifically fit people of certain heights and weights, for this reason, our review looks closely at who each inversion table is designed to fit. Moreover, the manufacturing quality is an important factor to take into account since you want your inversion table to be safe yet also last for years, even with daily use.
Nevertheless, with so many inversion tables to choose from, selecting the correct one for your unique circumstances can swiftly become a tiresome task. In this article, you'll get a comprehensive guide of what types of inversion tables and brands are available to the Australian market in 2021, and the particular feature to look out for.
How To Choose The Right Inversion Table
Inversion tables don't just provide a therapeutic benefit to your back, neck, or joint pain, but they also boost the muscle's elasticity and elongate the spinal region over time. When used often, a good inversion table will increase circulation providing more oxygen to the problem area, which allows for a regeneration of the spinal fluids which ultimately lowers inflammation and pain. With all that in mind, it's important to take into consideration that it's not just about convenience; practicality and safety are also important factors to consider. You want an inversion table that is both easy to use and safe, which in many ways is what sets a good inversion table apart from inferior models.
Furthermore, while many people purchase inversion tables to simply hang upside down on, they are also useful for much more than just decompressing your spine. These tables can be implemented to add difficulty to a variety of workouts. Crunches can especially be performed at an inclined angle, which enhances their benefit and makes the workout harder than if it was simply performed on the floor. Moreover, the benefits to your abdominal and core region are far greater when the exercises are performed on an inversion table, this can also decrease your chances of a back injury. Having an inversion table that enables you to set and toggle the angles rather than simply inverting to 180 degrees is especially important if you plan on using your table to work out.
What To Look At When Purchasing An Inversion Table
Key Health Benefits Of Using An Inversion Table
The majority of individuals suffering from back pain can attest to feeling a sense of relief after using inversion therapy. The relief comes from stretching the vertebrae which in turn creates space between the discs, allowing the body to rid any trapped waste fluid and helping to draw in new fluids that can relax the surrounding muscles. Inversion tables have many health benefits especially for the spinal region, but other health advantages can also be achieved via inversion therapy. Let's take a look:
“Zero gravity position also has many health benefits for the human body.” - Inversion Therapy & Zero Gravity
1. Stress Relief: In today's fast-paced world it's undeniable that most of us experience a higher amount of stress. After prolonged periods, stress can become extremely harmful to your body. Muscles can become contracted which can lead to cramps, pain, and tension in the inflamed areas. Funnily enough, an inversion table can serve as an ideal stress-busting form of therapy. Not only will being inverted help to release the built-up pressure in your muscles it will also give you some alone time to reflect and meditate, which will help your mind relax and unwind.
2. Detoxify the Body: Inversion therapy can help your body with its detoxification processes. This is because, when you're in an inverted position circulation is improved which helps open up the lymphatic system's pathways. This helps with the removal of toxins located in the bloodstream and throughout the body. By improving circulation, the supply of oxygen to the brain is also increased which can lead to better concentration, focus, and performance.
3. Healthy Spine: As we age, the bones in your body begin to shrink. The reason being is that your bones become compressed around the joint cavity, this not only reduces height but can also lead to many other health complications. The main area that's affected by this compression is the spinal region. Using an inversion table can help for these types of cases in a few different ways. It can help with lengthening and strengthening your muscles which are what keep your bones in place, meaning that the joint areas will further become properly lubricated, reducing the chances of compression. It will also relieve pressure and built-up tension in the joints and bones.
4. Improved Circulation: The blood flow to and from the heart to several other parts of the body can become obstructive or sluggish making it difficult for the adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen to make it to all areas of the body. Bad circulation can lead to various health issues, yet by using an inversion table frequently these possible complications can be bypassed. When you hang upside down circulation and blood flow can be assisted by gravity. Meaning that a large part of the pumping action that your heart has to render will be improved, this way the flow of blood can circulate throughout the body correctly.
5. Flexibly: One of the best health benefits of inversion tables is that they enhance your body's flexibility. When you use your inversion table routinely, it will stretch out your muscles creating more elasticity. Ligaments and muscles work in a coordinated manner for movements and improving flexibility with further help to protect joint health. The jelly-like material present in joint cavities will suffer less degeneration as the circulation of blood flow throughout the region will help to keep it healthy.
Best Inversion Tables in Australia 2021- Reviewed
We spent tens of hours combing through customer reviews and technical features to find the best inversion tables currently on offer in the Australian market today. The result is a roundup of five different tables. Continue reading for the full reviews for each inversion table, complete with listed pros and cons. Our buying guide covers everything you need to know about before choosing the inversion table that's right for you.
Teeter inversion tables are one of the most popular brands available on the market today. This is because they have a reputation for delivering high-quality products, and the price point reflects that, as most of the time their retail price can be somewhat more expensive than other competitors. This model uses a sturdy nylon strap to regulate the angle of inversion. It's also firm enough to use for exercise purposes.
The Teeter EP-560 has a weight limit of 160kg. and can support individuals who are 120cm to 180cm in height. Its precision rotation feature enables you to have complete control over the angles, and rotations. It's manufactured from heavy steel elements for improved safety. This specific model comes with a five-year warranty and is one of the only FDA approved inversion tables available on the market for back pain, spinal stenosis, and sciatica.
Another bonus is that this inversion table can be quickly folded up for storage or transport. Meaning that it can even be stored away in a closet while it's not being used, which is a great feature for anyone who doesn't have lots of extra floor space at home.
The list of features this model has to offer is incredible, and there’s just as many specs for comfort as there are for safety, durability, and health benefits.
Pros
Cons
This inversion table is reasonably priced considering the number of features it offers. One of them being the ratcheting ankle locking system, which allows you to really easily push down on a ratchet strap and slip your ankle in to lock yourself on the inversion table, with an equally simple release when finished. This model offers an adjustable lumbar pad as a feature to enhance back support when hanging in the inverted position. Furthermore, this inversion table also comes with long arms at either side of the table which makes it easy to pull yourself up. It's also perfect for abdominal exercises.
This model comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and one-year coverage for the remainder of the table. The table's maximum weight is 160kg in comparison to other inversion tables on the market that have a weight limit of 140kg.
Pros
Cons
3. Best Inversion Table With Heat Pads: Innova ITM5900
Innova's ITM5900 offers incredible features such as contoured lumbar pads that are adjustable and can deliver vibrating massage motions or heated padding for added back relief. The two-way adjustment system supports the inversion table while it adapts to your shape. While the six angle pin-hole systems allow you to alter the settings while you're strapped in place.
Its satisfactory backrest has a massage pad that works underneath your back to relax your muscle's tension. Furthermore, you can place the massaging pad settings on automatic modes. The weight limit is 140kg, yet it serves and supports almost all body types. The overall frame is extremely sturdy and made of metal, which lets you invert without any effort whatsoever.
The list of features this model has to offer is incredible, and there’s just as many specs for comfort as there are for safety. Meaning that the inversion table won't only deliver when it comes to convenience and health benefits, but it will also ensure that you’ll always stay safe and won't incur any injuries while inverting. The price point for this product is also very fair, considering all the features we’ve outlined above.
Pros
Cons
4. Best Inversion Table For Back Pain: Innova ITX9600
This Innova inversion table is one of the more adjustable ones available to the Australian market, making it ideal for a wider range of users. The table is specifically designed to fit users from 147cm to 198cm in height, but one of the features that sets it apart from the rest is that it offers three separate adjustable sections to fully adapt your body. The headrest can be easily lowered and raised, and the spacing between the footrest and backrest can be adjusted with ease, although finding the perfect fit and settings can take some trial and error.
Moreover, the footrest is reversible which provides extra comfort to your ankles and feet when inverting. This inversion table also offers a variety of adjustable angles. The table has six pinholes which provide a wide variety of inversion angles from 15 to 85 degrees. Plus, the table can also be fully inverted.
Pros
Cons
5. Best Inversion Table For Fitness: Health Gear ITM5500
This fitness inversion table has a molded full-back massaging and a heating pad, which is also removable in case you would prefer an uncomplicated table. The backrest is 10cm thick and its' features can be controlled via a remote. As expected, all the modern features do come with a higher price tag. So, if you’re on a budget then this probably isn’t the inversion table for you, but on the other hand if you're looking to splurge on some high-end features and remote controllable everything then this might be the perfect fit.
This table can be inverted at 20, 40, 60, and 90 degrees angles. Which can further be toggled to your liking or dependent on the type of inversion or exercise you're wanting to achieve It has four foam rollers for your legs, to help avoid calves from pinching. The height can also be adjusted via a scaled rod.
Pros
Cons
6. Best Budget Friendly Inversion Table: Genki Inversion Table
The Genki Inversion Table has a frame made out of steel, which is built to accommodate users that weigh up to 150 kg. There are four angles to choose from which helps to adapt specifically to your liking. The safety pins are placed for easy access and the height can be altered between 147cm to 198 cm, which is simply to toggle similarly to the rest of the features.
The U-shaped handles that this model has to offer to ensure a completely safe return to the upright position after inversion, with the added comfort of full-padding in each handle. When it comes to the ankle cushions, the ergonomic design limits the pressure placed on this region during inversion, while the adjustable headrest comfortably supports the head and neck area. Lastly, this inversion table is fully portable and foldable for easy storage, which can be a great bonus for anyone living in an apartment or somewhere with limited space. This model is super reasonably priced and would stand you in at 269.99$, so it’s a great option if you’re on a strict budget.
Pros
Cons
Some honorable mentions that we thought were worth noting in this article, although we haven't reviewed them above are the Bioflex inversion table and Enduro inversion table. Both models offer comparable features to some of the brands we've highlighted in this buyer's guide, yet unfortunately, these two models aren't available or easily accessible on the Australian marketplace.
Verdict
In this review, we looked at different inversion tables best suited for varying needs and scenarios. Our research found that if you're looking for an inversion table that offers great features but doesn't break the bank, your best choice would be the Teeter EP-560 (number 1 in our review and our top pick). The table features auto-locking hinges, pivot bearings, cam locks that all contribute to the product’s durability and reliability. The weight and height limit make this model adaptable and usable for most individuals, and it’s easy to assemble and store away, plus it’s FDA Certified! What more could you want?
Our close runner up would have to be the IRONMAN Gravity 4000 (number 2 in our review). Features like its ergonomically molded ankle cushions which hold ankles securely and comfortably and its heavyweight limit of 350 pounds, makes it an ideal option for those who want to diversify the use of their inversion table, with varying activities both therapeutically and with exercise regimes.
Lastly, the Health Gear ITM5500 (number 4 in our review)was close to being in second position thanks to its detachable heat and massage therapy pad and ability to secure in four separate inverted positions. Still, the large memory foam backrest can get in the way when decompressing your back, which isn't ideal.
Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with any of the inversion tables mentioned throughout this review. Just make sure that you pick the table that's going to best suit your unique needs, lifestyle, and uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
While most inversion tables are designed to rotate fully to 180 degrees, some are limited to lesser angles of inversion. Be sure to check your inversion table specs before purchasing to see its maximum angle of inversion and whether or not it offers additional angle toggles.
Yes! Inversion tables are a great tool for at-home workouts. Depending on how you have your table positioned you can make the exercises easier or more strenuous. Placing the table at an angle so that your head is below your feed will make exercises like crunches notably more complex, meanwhile placing your upper body at a more elevated angle than your feet can make the exercise that much easier for those who are just getting started with ab workouts.
The weight range of inversion tables differs by model and manufacturer, however, most inversion tables are restricted to 130kg to 160kg. It's extremely important to not exceed the recommended weight limit since this can incur a safety risk when using the inversion table.
There are a few things you can be doing while inverted, although none are required to achieve the benefits and results of inversion:
The recommended thing to do is to immediately stop your inversion. If it's nothing serious and only mild dizziness then try inverting to a lesser angle, stay in the inversion for less time, and go slower. If headaches and dizziness become frequent, consult with your healthcare provider.
Most tables are designed to be relatively user friendly and straightforward to build and normally only require tools that people tend to have at home, such as wrenches and screwdrivers. Inversion tables commonly come with a set of directions from the manufacturer that are intended to be easy to understand and follow. Most individuals report that assembling inversion tables takes on average a couple of hours between two people.
Even though there's no established time-frame most manufacturers and inversion therapists recommend starting with a couple of minutes of inversion each session and building up slowly up to five or more minutes as you begin feeling comfortable being inverted. The frequency in which you use your inversion table is more important than the actual inversion time. Being consistent with your inversion therapy and doing sessions daily is more likely to lead to longer-lasting health benefits and results than inverting for longer periods of time less frequently. Consistency is key!
While inversion tables are highly recommended for anyone experiencing back problems, inversion therapy isn't advisable for everyone. It's always best to speak with your healthcare provider before trying out inversion therapy. Inversion therapy is not recommended for the following groups of people unless advised otherwise by a medical professional.
Pregnant women: The elongating and stretching of the back area can cause harm to the unborn baby, although this is highly unlikely. Nevertheless, being in an inverted position also makes the blood flow to the brain, and healthcare professionals advise against this type of position during pregnancy.
Individual high blood pressure: Being in an inverted position can cause a rise in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for individuals who already suffer from high blood pressure issues. It's advised that people who fall under this category refrain from trying any form of inversion therapy.
