How To Use A Gravity Inversion Device

A gravity inversion device is an inversion table that features a leg lock to hold your legs in place on the table instead of collars around the ankles. Foam pads cross the front of the ankle and heel pads or another foam pad holds the rear of the ankle and heel, creating a way to hang without slipping. Gravity inversion tables put gravity to work for you, elongating your spine and muscles. Elongating the spine pulls the spinal vertebrae apart and can relieve pressure on discs, ligaments and nerve roots.

Step 1

Sit on the inversion table and place your feet with securely laced shoes on them through the foam leg pads. Do not wear high top shoes or boots that go above your anklebone. Press your ankles against the back pad and stand on the foot pad if your device has one.

Step 2

Remove the pin that holds the front roller in place so that it can clamp against the front of your ankles above the anklebone. Pull your pant legs out of the way, and then replace the locking pin to lock your ankles in.

Step 3

Lie on the nylon pad to test that the device is balanced properly with the correct height setting. Cross your arms on your chest. Adjust the height setting on the main shaft if the table does not move slightly upward. Select the next lowest height setting if the table remains motionless, and select one higher setting if the table moves back far enough that your head is lower than your feet. Pull out the pin on the height selector and slide it to the setting you wish before putting the pin back through the hole.

Step 4

Lie on the nylon pad and lift one arm above your head to begin inversion. Raise your other arm if you wish to invert farther. Work up to a 60- or 90-degree angle of inversion depending on your comfort level.

Step 5

Hang upside down on the inversion table only for as long as you are comfortable as gravity pulls your body into a stretch. Bring your arms to your sides to move the inversion device back upward so that you can get off when you are done.

Tips and Warnings

Check the weight limit of the inversion table before using the device. Different gravity inversion tables will be able to accommodate different weights. Also, check the height limit as you do not want to hit your head on the floor when inverting if you are taller than the machine can accommodate. Check for a tether strap if you are a first-time user and do not wish to invert fully. Hook the strap to the top of the back of the pad and to the frame, adjusting the length to the distance you want. Check your manual for details on how your tether strap is adjusted.