Back and neck pain is terrible. It is difficult to live with this unbearable pain. You could opt to use gravity boots, posture pumps, or an inversion chair for back pain relief at home.
What is an inversion chair? An inversion seat is uniquely designed for use during inversion therapy. This fitness equipment is unlike any other in that it allows you to exercise while providing relief to back and neck pain.
Our Top Seated Inversion Chairs in a Quick Overview:
This review focuses on the top inversion chairs ideal for home fitness. For those with limited time, here’s a preview of our top-rated options:
1. Health Mark Inversion Chair
2. FeetUp Trainer Inversion Chair
3. Stamina Seated Inversion Chair
6. Restrial Life Inversion Chair
You may be wondering:
What makes an ideal inversion chair? How can I pick the model that meets my needs? In the guide below, we seek to answer these two commonly asked questions and more.
We have done research, chose the best-rated chairs, checked what other customers had to say, and came up with the guide below. Read on and discover the best inversion chairs.
Top 6 Inversion Chairs in 2024
1. Health Mark Inversion Chair
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Here is how to use the Health Mark Pro:
The first chair on our list is the Health Mark Pro. This chair is ideal for people who suffer from constant back pain. Health Mark Pro inversion chair helps to decompress the spine thus reducing fatigue, lower and middle back pain, and muscle stress. It has a simple design and can comfortably hold up to 300 lbs. Here are some of its main features:
Security – When you are inverted, you are not in control of your body. For this reason, you need to pick a chair whose design allows you to inverse safely. Some security features on Health Mark IV18600 Pro include:
- Adjustable belt – This inversion chair comes with an adjustable angle belt that not only secures you during inversion therapy but also helps you to inverse slowly up to a 70 degrees angle.
- Safety lap belt – This adjustable belt holds your body in place. The belt is adjustable so people of different body sizes can efficiently use the chair.
Support – Suitable inversion equipment should have support features to ensure the inversion routine is smooth. The Health Mark Pro support features include:
- Knee support: As opposed to inversion tables, this equipment has padded knee support that protects the knees from straining when you are in an upside down position.
- Ankle support: When your body is hanging upside down, its weight is held by the ankles. Cushioned ankle support ensures that the ankles do not get bruised or strained.
Handlebar: Health Mark IV18600 Pro is fitted with a handlebar that enables you to get on and off the chair comfortably.
Backrest: Ever tried to exercise on a piece of equipment that was not padded? You can attest that the exercise was difficult, awkward, and painful. This equipment’s backrest is cushioned to provide comfort. The backrest is also adjustable to accommodate users with different heights.
Construction: This equipment is made of heavy gauge steel that guarantees you of long-term use.
Finish: the manufacture used durable powder-coated finish to ensure its frame does not chip.
What we liked
- This inversion equipment is multi-function. Apart from using this inversion chair for back pain, you can do inverted oblique crunches, inverted crunches, reverse V-ups, and reverse oblique V-ups.
- Helps relieve acute lower back pain.
- Helps reduce muscle tension
- Safer compared to using gravity boots
What we didn’t like
- Difficult to assemble without a manual
2. FeetUp Trainer Inversion Chair
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There are two types of inversion chairs. We have the traditional types such as the one we’ve reviewed above and then there are inversion headstand benches.
Though not new, these benches are gaining popularity now because they are easier to travel with and ensure user comfort while turning upside down.
Made of high-quality, durable material, this headstand bench ensures you turn upside down without worrying about tipping over or falling.
It also comes with a thickly padded cushion that protects your shoulders from friction and pinching.
Also, the FeetUp trainer is multi-functional. Other exercises you can do include arm balances, chair yoga, and planks.
What we liked
- German engineered to hold up to 250 lbs
- Small and lightweight allowing you to travel with it
- Helps stretch the back
What we didn’t like
- Costs more than other headstand benches
3. Stamina Seated Inversion Chair
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Our other favorite inversion chair is the Stamina Seated inversion chair. Stamina Products are the manufacturer of this inversion equipment. Stamina is an American-based company that is well known to manufacture products that are high quality and suited for different types of users.
Stamina Seated inversion chair is created for stability, comfort, and security during inversion. Here are some of its main features.
Security features
Leg lock system: The Stamina Seated is fitted with a ratcheting leg lock system that is designed to hold the ankles securely to support your weight. There is a push lever button that allows you to hold and release the ankles seamlessly.
- Floor protectors: This chair has rubber footprints that ensure your feet have a firm grip on the chair.
- Nylon tether strap: This strap helps you to control the inversion angle easily.
- Lap belt: just like the leg lock system, the lap belt is an added security feature to keep you safe when inverted.
Support features
- Adjustable footrest: The footrest helps you to sit in the right position when you invert and makes it simple for you to mount and dismount.
- Backrest: The backrest is firm and well cushioned to ensure you are comfortable and that you are seated upright even in an upside position. Slouching will only add more pain to your already hurting back.
- Adjustable beam: working out on a piece of equipment that makes you look like an adult riding a kid’s bike is… humiliating. The Stamina Seated has a height adjustment beam that one can adjust the seat according to their height.
- Padded handlebars: Stamina’s manufacturer included padded handlebars in this model. These handlebars allow you to invert and return to an upright seated position without straining your fingers and hands
Construction: Stamina Products used heavy, durable steel while creating the Stamina Seated. This guarantees the durability of this inversion chair
Related Post: Are Inversion Tables Really Good for You?
What we liked:
- Easy to mount and dismount.
- Stamina Seated is more affordable compared to other inversion chairs on the market.
- This chair can be used by the elderly.
- Stamina Seated is ideal for people suffering from sciatica (read about will walking on a treadmill help sciatica )
What we didn’t like:
- Requires assembling
4. Sisyama Inversion Bench
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The Sisyama folding inversion bench is an exceptional piece of fitness equipment that you can use at home or while traveling.
It offers the same comforts as the FeetUp trainer with its well-padded cushion. So, what makes this inversion chair unique?
The Sisyama headstand bench features a foldable design. When folded, it can fit in your trunk or luggage and use it at the office or when traveling. Also, the compact size makes it easy to store.
What we liked
- Multi-functional design allows you to use this inversion bench for other exercises
- Makes inversion therapy safer
- Makes transition from headstand poses to handstand poses easier
- Can handle up to 300 lbs
5. Stamina Inversion Chair
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Termed as one of the best inversion chairs on the market, the Stamina InLine has a modern and sleek design. As with the Stamina Seated, this inversion chair is also created by a US-based company, Stamina Products.
This inversion equipment is ideal for young people who suffer from back pain that is a result of vigorous sporting activity or long working hours. It is also suitable for the elderly whose back pain is as a result of slouching due to back muscle weakness. Below are some features that make the Stamina InLine tick.
Support features
- Foot bar: A quick-adjust foot bar is fitted so that users of different heights can use this chair comfortably. You can quickly reach the foot bar while you are seated.
- Ratcheting leg lock system: During inversion, your legs will support your weight. For this reason, Stamina created a robust leg lock system that can hold up to 250 lbs. it has a push button release that enables you to lock and unlock your legs.
- Ankle support: The ankle support on InLine inversion chair is foam padded to ensure your ankles don’t get bruised from the pressure caused by the leg lock system.
Security features
- Adjustable strap and belt: These two exciting features are designed to keep you secure and allow you to invert your body efficiently.
- Floor protectors: The rubber floor protectors are slip-resistant. This feature ensures that you do not slip when mounting or dismounting the inversion chair.
Comfort features
- Comfortable upholstery: With this chair, Stamina has done a great job. They have added foam padding to the backrest so that the user’s lumbar region will have more support.
- Padded handlebars: The handlebars are foam-padded, making it easier for you to push or pull yourself while seated.
Durability
Just like the Stamina Seated, the InLine’s frame is made of durable steel.
6. Restrial Life Inversion Chair
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If you are looking for a headstand inversion chair that will give you the same experience as the Feet Up trainer without the hefty price, the Restrial Life inversion chair is the right pick.
Featuring a unique H-type frame, this inversion bench yoga can hold up to 331 lbs. The H-type frame is made up of 16 layers of compressed pine. The compression technology ensures heavier users can use this inversion yoga bench without worrying about slipping and tipping over.
For your comfort, this inversion chair comes with a thickly padded cushion. Also, this cushion comes with a T-shaped insert that allows you to use it for other exercises.
What we liked
- Can handle more weight than most headstand inversion yoga benches
- Comes with an insert allowing you to use it as a stool
- Has a 2-year warranty
Benefits of Inversion Chair for Back Pain
Truth be told, it is tough to work, sleep or even dance when you are experiencing severe back pain. In the past, back pain was only associated with aging.
However, today young people experience the pain too. An inversion chair will help improve your posture and relieve the pain. Here are other benefits you will get:
1. Ideal for treating sciatic nerve pain
The sciatic nerve extends from your lower back all the way to your feet. Discomfort along this nerve can result in pain. Symptoms include stiffness, numbness, weakness, and excruciating pain.
According to this study, inversion therapy helps relieve this pain by using the force of gravity to decompress the back, therefore reducing pressure on the nerve. An inversion chair also helps stretch sore or tense muscles.
2. Cost
The average cost of back surgery in the United States is $100,000. This figure only represents money you will spend at the hospital. It does account for the money you will lose while in recovery.
Health Mark Pro, Stamina In Line, or Stamina Seated are affordable, and they will help you stay fit and avoid theater.
3. Improves range of motion
Do you remember, when you were a child, how easy it was to touch your toes? How about you try it right now. Difficult, right? Through inversion therapy, your spine will be decompressed making it easier for your back to bend.
Inversion therapy is highly recommended if you spend long hours on your desk job.
Inversion chair VS inversion table
For a long time now, inversion tables, such as the Teeter inversion table, have dominated the inversion therapy world. The recent introduction of inversion chairs into the market has brought on the question, which one is better, an inversion chair Vs inversion table or even gravity boots.
So, we will try to answer this question to the best of our ability. But, honestly, it’s like having to choose who is stronger between Batman and Superman. Difficult, right? But, here are a few crucial differences between inversion tables and inversion chairs
- Inversion angles
An inversion chair allows you to dictate the angles of your inversion. This keeps you in charge of the whole process. You get to adjust the intervals as your body becomes more familiar with inversion therapy.
However, that’s not the case with the inversion tables. With the table, you turn completely upside down in a matter of seconds.
- Easier torso movement
Do you want to work out your abs during your inversion routine? Hey, it’s killing two birds with one stone. You back stretches, and you get abs. Anyway… most inversion chair models allow users to move their torso easily.
This enables you to do stretches and twists. Check out the Health Mark Pro. The layout of an inversion table is constricting and does not allow any movement. At the end of the day, an inversion chair is better regarding torso movement.
- Ankle support
Imagine the weight of your body being supported by your ankles only. Imagine those ankles tied to the table with thin straps. Ouch! Painful, right? Well, that’s precisely what happens when you use an inversion table.
Your ankles are not meant to hold your body’s weight, but because your back is hurting and you need a great solution, then inversion therapy is the way to go.
However, don’t just settle for something that might cause you pain. Inversion chairs such as Stamina In Line, Health Mark Pro, and Stamina Seated have to foam padded ankle support that keeps your ankles from straining.
Get an inversion chair especially if you have mobility issues or are in your golden years.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Inversion Chair
Looking for the best inversion chair? The process of searching for the right chair can be tedious.
There are various models available, and you have to look at each one before making a decision. We comprehend the importance of doing due diligence before committing hundreds of dollars on a product.
For this reason, we are going to list some of the essential features you should be on the lookout for before making a purchase.
Features
The main features of an inversion chair should be the ultimate determinant of the chair you pick. Remember your back is hurting, so you want to get an inversion chair that does not aggravate the situation further. Some of the features to consider include:
Comfort: check whether a chair is foam-padded on the handlebars, backrest, and ankle support. Foam-padded inversion chairs protect your body, especially the ankles, from the hurt caused by friction. Because of the comfort from foam padding, you can inverse for longer.
Security: it is paramount to get inversion equipment that keeps you secure. During inversion, you do not control your body balance. If you fall, it could be catastrophic. Make sure your chair has an adjustable lap belt, rubber floor protectors, and a strap. These features ensure your security.
Specifications
“How tall am I? How much do I weigh?” these are factors you should put into consideration when making a purchase. Some inversion chairs can hold up to 350 pounds but would be entirely useless to you if it can only accommodate users up to 5’8 and you are a 6’2.
Pick a chair that can hold your weight and accommodate your height. Also, ensure that you have enough storage space. Most inversion chair models do not fold up.
Construction
Inversion chairs are not costly, but they aren’t cheap either. Pick a chair whose frame is made of steel. Remember as you are growing older, back and neck pain will occur more frequently. So, invest in a chair that will last longer and one that you can easily mount and dismount as you are aging.
Design
When search for an inversion chair, pick on that has a simple design. The chair should be simple and effective; simple for you to get on and off. Acquiring a chair with an intricate design will only add more pain to your back. Don’t add insult to injury.
Cost
What is your budget? Every wise woman or man works with a budget. Before making a purchase, consider your budgetary allocation. This will help you to choose a model that has the feature you want, and that does not leave your wallet bleeding.
Inversion chairs Reviews
When getting a chair, don’t just get one based on reviews on random sites. We recommend that you check reviews from other users.
From this, you get to understand what other users like about a specific inversion chair, what exercises they found to be most effective, and what they don’t want about their inversion chair.
How often should I use an inversion chair? This question is quite common, especially from people who are new to inversion therapy. The answer is simple. When you are starting out, your body is not used to hanging upside down.
So, it is best to start with a slight angle, say 30 degrees for two minutes. Then as you progress, add the angle of inversion and the amount of time spent on the chair. Remember, do not overdo the exercise. You don’t want to hurt your back any further.
Final Verdict
Fact, every person on the face of the earth will suffer from back pain at some point in their life. It may be as a result of work or aging. Fact, back surgery costs thousands of dollars and don’t even mention the recovery time.
When you use an inversion chair, you mitigate this risk. However, it is vital to consult your doctor if your back pain is severe. The guide above is of the best inversion chairs reviews. Hope you like it, and through it, you get to choose one among the Stamina Seated, Health Mark Pro, and Stamina In Line
Written by Kathleen Langdon – TheHealthPot.com Founder
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
Kathleen, a mother of two, struggled with ongoing weight and health issues. She created this website after she turned her life around. She built Thehealthpot.com to help inspire and motivate others with their fitness goals. Read more about Kathleen here.