Inversion therapy may seem like a magical practice that only your chiropractor and his specialized equipment can perform on your back, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to invert everyday at home. After a busy day, the weight of gravity really takes a toll on my spine, and all I need is a good stretch without having to visit the chiropractor. I’ve decided it’s time to purchase an inversion table for my home – I’m ready to start hanging upside-down!
So what style inversion therapy table do I need to get the results I want? Let’s look for something sturdy, comfortable and hopefully not too expensive. I see a lot of options out there, but there’s no reason to be scared off by the cost – while some inversion tables run upwards of $300, there are basic models that get you upside-down safely for less than half the price. Speaking of, the price tag on the Inversion Table Pro Deluxe Fitness (now Gracelove Heavy Duty Deluxe Inversion Therapy Table) is catching my eye. But before we get too excited about the low cost, let’s take a look at this inversion table. I want to make sure we’re not losing out on quality by paying a lower price.
Design
This inversion table is a basic model, reflected by the affordable price, so the design doesn’t boast any special tricks. The Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table is made from a tubular steel frame with a stretched fabric backrest. This inversion table supports individuals from 4’10” to 6’6” and holds anyone up to 300lbs – and you don’t have to worry, it’s going to support you. Don’t let the term ‘basic’ make you think it’s cheap – the frame is substantial and sturdy, so you don’t feel any wobble or bowing. The addition of rubber feet at the base prevents any slipping while you tilt to your heart’s content.
The ankle supports are simple and reliable, but nothing to write home about – you’ll be supported by the typical ankle roller design, sliding your foot between foam rollers and a padded heel cup. Adjusting the ankles is somewhat straightforward with the adjustment lever, but it does require more bending than other models that feature an elongated handle. If bending is difficult for you, you may want to take a look at other ankle support designs. You’ll also find that you need to wear shoes with these ankle rollers, for added support.
Is It Easy to Store Away?
Sometimes you just don’t want your fitness equipment to be the center of attention. The Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table folds up for storage by simply sliding the backrest out of the frame and then folding the base. But like any other inversion table, it’s still a bit bulky – don’t throw out your back trying to lug this 50-pound table around the house on your own (we’re trying to make your back feel better not worse!). If you plan on hanging everyday, you’ll want to be sure you have enough space in your home to keep it assembled. And don’t forget that as you tilt, you’ll need enough space behind and in front to lie horizontally as well as vertically.
Comfort
The one area where the Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table leaves just a little to be desired is comfort. I wouldn’t say it’s uncomfortable; you just won’t find any memory foam back pad or ergonomically curved designs here. The stretched fabric backrest is wrapped around the metal frame, so in some positions you may feel the bar against your back. This shouldn’t happen if you take the time to properly adjust to the best height setting, but like I said, there just isn’t a lot of padding.
The ankle supports are also a little lacking in comfort – there are pads and soft rollers, but the further you invert the more discomfort you’ll notice. It shouldn’t be anything to stop you from your practice, but you’ll want to wear sturdy shoes or even add a towel for more comfort. You’re also going to need to bend more to adjust the ankles.
Safety
You want to feel safe if you’re going to be able to relax. You’ll find all the standard safety measures on the Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table, so you don’t have to worry about losing control. U-shaped padded handles offer some peace of mind, since they allow you to easily right yourself when you’re done looking at the ceiling. The pads are even removable for cleaning. A safety tether keeps you in control of how far you invert, and a three-position roller hinge controls the speed.
While the entire table is sturdy and stable, some of the adjustment pins and features will show wear and tear after a lot of use. Frequently adjusting the height will cause the bolt and labels to wear down. If more than one person is going to be consistently using your table, you may want to invest in something a bit more durable.
The Ups and The Downs
If you’re looking at an inversion table in this price range, you’ve got to expect nothing above the basics. But really, that’s all you need to feel the same results as with a high-end inversion table. The Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table comes in at a very attractive price and it doesn’t feel ‘cheap’.
The Good Stuff:
- Affordable price point
- Sturdy metal frame and rubber feet covers
- Foldable for storage
The Not-so-good Stuff:
- Some wear-and-tear on height adjustment feature
- Ankle supports aren’t as comfortable as other models
- Back rest has minimal padding
If the price is what drew you in, you’re not going to be disappointed with this purchase. The Pro Deluxe Fitness Inversion Table offers everything you need for inversion therapy, and the results stack up to those of the name-brands. Other models might make more effort toward comfort and offer more features for convenience, but this affordable table does the job at a much lower price.
