Pretty much everyone will experience back problems at some point in their life. When back pain hits, an inversion table can be just the right thing to potentially help the problem. These tables take advantage of gravity to extend your spine and relieve pressure.
Inversion tables are not meant for long-term treatment of serious spinal conditions. But when combined with regular treatment and therapy, they may be an effective method of back pain management. There are a lot of inversion tables out there though, which can make your decision difficult.
So we put together this comprehensive guide on the top 10 inversion tables. These tables have been chosen based on their overall quality, effectiveness, and cost/value ratio.
Top 10 Inversion Tables
1. Innova Heavy Duty Inversion Table
First up is the Innova Heavy Duty Inversion Table. The Innova has a 6-position adjustable system and a True Balance system that makes inversions easy and ergonomic to maintain. The headrest is fully adjustable and has a large comfy padded backrest.
It has a wide user height range from 4’11” to 6’6” and can hold up to 300 lbs. It can also be folded up when not in use for easy storage.
It also features a heavy-duty steel frame and there is also a premium model that features an advanced ankle lock system with a holding bar.
Highlights
- Wide height range
- Sturdy frame
- 6 positions offer a lot of flexibility
- Reliable ankle locks
- Thick and comfy pads
Drawbacks/cons
- Very large
- On the heavy side
What’s included
- Table
- Reversible ankle holding system
Features
- Capacity: 300 lbs.
- Material: Steel and high-density foam
- Design: Foam inversion handlebars
- Colors: Black
- Dimensions: 46” x 28” x 63” (L X W x H) (shipping dimensions)
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
It is large, comfortable, and has a sturdy ankle locking system. It is easy to invert and large enough to handle users of varying heights.
Bottom Line
The Innova is a solid and heavy-duty inversion table that has a high level of comfort. The pads are thick and comfy, and the table is easy to invert.
Where You Can Buy It
2. Ironman Gravity Inversion Table
Next is the Ironman Gravity Inversion Table. This sturdy inversion table has a unique removable lumbar pillow that adds extra support and extension when inverted.
The Ironman also has a unique extra ‘Airsoft’ ankle holder that is comfy and breathable.
This table inverts to a full 180 degrees and has a thick vinyl covered backrest seat made from high-density memory foam. Despite the ‘Ironman’ name, the frame is made from a durable tubular steel frame. Rubber stabilizers on the bottom prevent skidding and keep the frame stable while in use.
The Ironman is large and can handle users up to 350 lbs. It is a bit on the heavier side but makes up for that with its incredible durability.
Highlights
- Sturdy steel frame
- Durable memory foam pads
- Wide backboard
- The wide base is sturdy and stable
- A removable lumbar support pillow
Drawbacks/cons
- Heavy
- Vinyl can get slick from sweat
- Not very space-conscious
What’s included
- Table
- “No-pinch” retractable ankle lock
Features
- Capacity: 350 lbs.
- Material: Steel & vinyl/memory foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Blue
- Dimensions: 49” x 26” x 65”
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: Lifetime frame warranty, 1-year pad warranty
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
It is large, durable, and has a high weight capacity. The removable lumbar support pillow is a unique touch that improves spinal traction.
Bottom Line
The Ironman Gravity is a competent inversion table that has a high weight capacity. The memory foam pads are comfortable, and it has a generous lifetime warranty on the frame.
Where You Can Buy It
3. Innova Advanced Therapeutic Inversion Table
The Innova Advanced Therapeutic Inversion Table is a wide-based therapeutic device good for managing back pain. It is extremely affordable but still manages to be high-quality.
It also features a triple-adjustment structure so users can get the optimal inversion experience.
The table features a has a 6-pin adjustment system and the headrest is fully adjustable and the soft foam handlebars make gripping and inverting easy. The backrest pad has an extra thick midsection which provides more lumbar support.
Highlights
- Thick, comfy pads
- Sturdy steel frame
- Raised lumbar support pad
- Adjustment system cover protects fingers
- 3 adjustment points (headrest, backrest, ankle lock)
Drawbacks/cons
- Ankle holder is large
- Assembly is a bit complicated
What’s included:
- Table
- Reversible ankle lock
Features
- Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Steel & foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Blue/black
- Dimensions: 50” x 44.5” x 30”
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
Affordable, easy to use, and made from good components.
Bottom Line
The Innova is a solid inversion table that won’t break the bank. It has decent components and a thick backrest with a raised lumbar support pad, which is good for extra spinal extension.
Where You Can Buy It
4. Innova ITM5900 Heat and Massage Inversion Therapy Table
Up at 4th is the Innova ITM5900. The ITM5900 features a unique heat and massage pad with auto and manual settings. Gravity realigns your spine and the heating pad heats and massages problem areas. It has a 6-pin slot adjustment system with slot guards to protect your fingers.
The ITM5900 comes with a large, thick backrest and headrest pads made with high-density foam. Foam handlebars on the side make inversion easy and simple to pull off.
The headrest can be adjusted to three places and the table has a max weight capacity of 300 lbs.
Highlights
- Heating/massage
- Extra thick pads
- Highly adjustable ankle lock height
- Pin guards protect fingers when adjusting
- Soft foam handlebars
Drawbacks/cons
- Heavy
- Massage pad can get too hot
What’s included:
- Table
- Adjustable ankle lock
Features
- Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Steel, vinyl, & foam
- Design Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Black/gray
- Dimensions: 51” x 23” x 8” (backrest size)
- Maintenance: Clean with a rag and solution
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
Extra thick padding and heating/massage pad add extra therapeutic modalities.
Bottom Line
The Innova ITM5900 is an advanced therapeutic inversion table with massage and heating elements. It is affordable, extra-comfy, and has unique features that enhance its pain-management potential.
Where You Can Buy It
5. Exerpeutic Inversion Table
The Exerpeutic Inversion Table is a uniquely designed inversion table with a soft ankle-locking system and an additional lumbar support pillow.
It is a large table and is made with a heavy-duty steel frame and features a 3-position adjustable rear crossbar and a palm-activated ankle-lock system.
A special ratchet system makes inversion safer and the lumbar support pillow can be removed to adjust performance and comfort.
Highlights
- Lightweight
- Comfortable ankle guards
- Ratchet-locks safety system makes inversions easier
- Safety certified
- Full loop handlebars are easy to grasp
Drawbacks/cons
- Relatively low weight capacity (250 lbs)
- No adjustable headrest
What’s included:
- Table
- Padded ankle lock
- Removable lumbar pillow
Features
- Capacity: 250 lbs
- Material: Steel & vinyl
- Design: Ratchet lock inversion mechanism
- Colors: Blue/black
- Dimensions: 56.5” x 26.5” x 64”
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
It is extremely lightweight and has great comfort/safety features.
Bottom Line
The Exerpeutic is a light and affordable inversion table that is extremely comfortable and has unique mechanisms that make it easy to use. The ankle guards are soft and durable, while the lumbar support pillow gives more spinal extension.
Where You Can Buy It
6. Health Gear ITM5500 Heavy Duty Inversion Table
At 7th is the heavy-duty Health Gear ITM5500. The ITM5500, like the Innova ITM5900, features a heating and massage pad on top of a durable memory foam back and headrest.
The Health Gear also has a sur-lock easy-in, easy-out ankle lock mechanism.
This table has 4 adjustment positions and has a high 300 lb weight capacity. It is also foldable and space-conscious, despite the heavy-duty build.
Height is easy to adjust, and the heating element comes with a useful remote controller to set temperature/massage settings.
Highlights
- 4” thick foam backrest
- Removable heating/massage pad
- Sur-lock bar makes it easy to step in and out of ankle locks
- Sturdy steel frame
Drawbacks/cons
- Heavy
- Poor warranty policy
What’s included:
- Table
- Heating/massage pad
Features
- Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Steel, vinyl, & foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Red/black
- Dimensions
- Maintenance: Clean with cloth and solution
- Warranty: 30-day warranty
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
The heating/massage opens up new therapeutic modalities and it is space-conscious despite the build.
Bottom Line
The Health Gear ITM5500 Heavy Duty Inversion Table is a great choice of inversion table with some nice therapeutic features. It has a sophisticated design, with an easy ankle-lock system and extra-thick and comfy backrest and headrest. The only downside is the poor warranty.
Where You Can Buy It
7. Invertio Inversion Table Back Stretching Machine
The Invertio Inversion Table Back Stretching Machine is a premium-grade expertly constructed inversion table designed for managing back pain. It is made from heavy-duty steel and features a high weight capacity and durable clack upholstery pads. It is also fully adjustable and very comfortable.
The Invertio also has accurate inversion control with pre-set angle settings. It is foldable, which increases portability, and has a relatively low profile as far as inversion tables go. The table can invert to a full 180-degrees.
Highlights
- Simple design
- Thick padded backrest/headrest
- Durable steel frame
- Good stability; doesn’t rock
- High weight capacity
Drawbacks/cons
- Not very adjustable
- No warranty listed
What’s included:
- Table
- Adjustable ankle locks
Features
- Capacity: 300 lbs.
- Material: Steel, upholstery, & foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Black
- Dimensions: 51” x 28” x 59”
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and cleaning solution
- Warranty: Not listed
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
The simple design is easy to set up and use right out of the box. It’s great for recreational use.
Bottom Line
The Invertio Inversion Table Back Stretching Machine is a competent and effective inversion table that features a simple design and effective performance. The back pads are thick and comfy, and the entire set up is easy to assemble and use without complications.
Where You Can Buy It
8. Exerpeutic 975SL All Inclusive Heavy Duty Inversion Table
Up 9th is another from Exerpeutic, this one the 975SL. As the name implies, the 975SAL Heavy-Duty Inversion Table has a very high max capacity of 350 lbs and durable steel construction.
The Exerpeutic features the trademark padded ‘airsoft” ankle locks and an extra thick memory foam backboard.
The 975SL also has a unique iControl locking system that allows for virtually infinite continuous adjustment angles. The lumbar support pillow can be removed, and the table can invert to a full 180-degrees.
Highlights
- Extra-thick and extra-wide backboard
- Airsoft ankle holders
- iControl locking system makes inversion safe and easy
- Very high weight capacity
- Lumbar support pillow
Drawbacks/cons
- Large and heavy
- No adjustable headrest
- On the pricier side
What’s included:
- Table
- Airsoft ankle holders
Features
- Capacity: 350 lbs.
- Material: Steel, upholstery, & foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Gray/orange
- Dimensions: 75.6” x 31” x 58.5”
- Maintenance: Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: 1-year limited
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
The backboard is extra wide, and the frame has an unusually high weight capacity.
Bottom Line
The Exerpeutic 975SL is a true heavy-duty inversion table that is exceedingly comfortable and safe. The backboard is extra wide for accommodating those with large frames, and the iControl mechanism basically allows for limitless adjustment positions.
Where You Can Buy It
9. Harison Heavy Duty Inversion Table
Last on our list is the Harison Heavy-Duty Inversion Table. The Harison has an extra-wide backboard with strategically placed support bumps designed to support critical points of the spine and shoulders. It has an extra-high 350 lb capacity and an extremely durable steel frame.
Highlights
- Extremely heavy-duty steel frame
- Extra-padded inversion handlebars
- Highly adjustable ankle holder height
- Multiple support ridges for relieving spine pressure
- Very generous warranty policy
Drawbacks/cons
- Heavy and awkward to move
- Expensive
What’s included:
- Table
- Adjustable ankle holder
Features
- Capacity: 350 lbs
- Material: Steel, upholstery, memory foam
- Design: Inversion handlebars
- Colors: Black/orange
- Dimensions: 75” x 28” 55”
- Maintenance Clean with rag and solution
- Warranty: 5-year frame warranty, lifetime part warranty
Why it’s good for the intended usage/goal
It is extremely heavy-duty and has a very wide backboard for users with wide shoulders. It also has a very high weight capacity of 350 lbs.
Bottom Line
The Harison Heavy Duty Inversion Table is a high-quality inversion table that is the perfect choice for larger users. It has a wide-backboard and a high weight capacity along with a simple and reliable design.
Where You Can Buy It
Inversion Table Buying Guide
Size/Portability
Inversion tables are pretty big and generally not that portable, though some exceptions exist. The most important thing about the size is to make sure you have enough ceiling clearance space.
If the table is too big it will just hit the ceiling when it inverts.
Inversion tables can also be static or foldable. Static tables are like the large ones you see in the gym and foldable ones are good for home and personal use.
Budget
The average inversion table costs about $150-$300. Anything in this range should be a decent mid-grade inversion table that will last for a while if taken care of properly. Anything below $100 is probably cheaply built and should be avoided entirely as poorly built tables can be dangerous.
Ease of use
You shouldn’t have to struggle to invert yourself. Most tables have some kind of handhold or lever mechanism that makes it easier to flip. The ankle clamps should also be simple to put on but not come off easily.
Easy to clean
Inversion tables come into contact with your whole torso and so pick up dead skin and bacteria. Ideally, you should be able to just wipe down the table with a rag and cleaning solution once you are done using it. Avoid inversion tables made with a lot of fabrics or cloth.
Material/Build
Inversions with low-quality materials like plastics are not only ineffective but also can be dangerous. The best inversion tables are typically made with carbon steel frames. Carbon steel is lightweight, extremely durable, and will not fail during usage.
Keep in mind that inversion tables have a minimum and maximum weight capacity. In general, static tables usually have a higher weight capacity than foldable tables.
Durability
Durability should factor into your choice of materials. A good inversion table will not bend or show stress when using it. Again, carbon steel is a particularly good material for inversion tables.
Brand Reputation & Warranty
Big brands can be expensive, but you are often paying for a higher quality product. Also, make sure to check for any warranties.
Keep in mind that inversion tables may have different policies for different parts of the table. For instance, the frame and seating components could be covered under separate warranty policies with different terms.
Make sure you fully understand the terms of any applicable warranty policies before buying.
User Feedback & Reviews
User reviews are often a good way to get a first-hand account of some products. User reviews give a good picture of how a product actually performs, something an official product description can’t tell you.
Inversion Table FAQ
What Does an Inversion Table Do?
Inversion tables are meant to help align your spine and reduce back pain by using gravity. Inversion tables are used by people for all kinds of spinal issues from realignment to managing pain.
How Does an Inversion Table Work?
Inversion tables work by taking advantage of gravity. The table hooks onto your ankles and rotates you so you are upside down. Gravity does the rest of the job as your own bodyweight slowly extends and realigns your spine.
What Are the Benefits of An Inversion Table?
The theory behind inversion tables is that by inverting the body, gravity coupled with your body weight relieves pressure on your spine. As such, inversion tables may be beneficial for people with chronic back pain, bad circulation, sciatica, and other spinal issues like scoliosis.
Keep in mind that inversion tables are NOT meant to treat any condition, just manage pain and symptoms.
Additionally, hanging upside down can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those with heart disease, glaucoma, or other blood pressure-related issues.
These tables are NOT meant to replace any treatments and you should speak with your doctor before using an inversion table.
