Being a former athlete and personal trainer, I have seen and experienced many injuries. One of the more common and painful types of injuries involve the lower back. This also comes from personal experience with a L3 disc rupture that happened in my college days. Luckily physical therapy was effective enough so that surgery was not needed. Over the years however, problems would pop up mainly in the form of muscle spasms.
A few years ago a client of mine bought an Ironman inversion table. I had often heard of the benefits of inversion therapy but had never experience it first hand. You will also hear of some people saying that inversion table therapy made things worse for them. This hasnt been the experience for the majority however.
I am a big believer in using inversion tables. Combining the use of inversion tables and hip mobility, the occurrences of muscle spasms or other injuries to my back (and my clients) have been minimal.
**Note: Before purchasing an inversion table make sure you read the following health warnings at the end of this review.
Why and how do inversion tables work?
Inversion tables put your body into traction, which can take a lot of pressure off your vertebrae discs and ligaments. Since gravity imposes a lot of pressure on our bodies, the traction allows your body, specifically your back, begins to relax. When this happens everything else loosens up. Being able to loosen up tight muscles can allow for better circulation and better mobility.
Why buy an Ironman Fitness Inversion Table?
Ironman has almost two dozen different types of inversion tables. They are experts in making quality tables. They have a table for every need and every budget.
Ironman ATIS Inversion Tables
| ATIS 4000 | ATIS 3500 | ATIS 1000 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 325 lbs. | 325 lbs. | 325 lbs. |
| Height Adjustment | 6’6″ | 6’6″ | 6’6″ |
| Ankle Locking System | Ratchet System | Ratchet System | Scale Locking System |
| Folds For Storage | No | No | Yes |
| Product Weight | 111. lbs. | 111 lbs. | 76 lbs. |
| Price (Subject to change) | $314.99 | $333.19 | $197.00 |
Ironman ATIS 4000
The ATIS 4000 allows not only for traction but also ab training leading some users to call this line of table inverted exercise equipment. According to Ironman, the ab inversion training system (ATIS) can isolate the abdominal region like now ab exercise or ab machine can. The ATIS 4000 also has 10 locking angles to help you find the best position of traction for your body to get the best results possible.
ATIS 4000 Features
Has an extra-wide oval tubing steel frame
2 1/2 nylon backrest that contains 1 of memory foam
Extended head rest
Ergonomically molded ankle cushions (Ratchet Gear) 
Inverted hand grips
10 locking angles (with patent pending Smart Gear)
Extra long safety handles to help you get back to upright position
Adjustable height up to 66
Supports up to 320 pounds
Extra large foot platform
Removable lumbar support pillow
Super Side Holder for accessories
Measures 35 x 62 x 58 (W x H x D)
Weighs 111 lbs.
ATIS 4000 User Feedback
Those who purchased the table from Amazon gave it 4.2 out of 5 stars. What are some of the comments about experiences with the ATIS 4000? Here are a few examples:
Mostly good, but the horrible locking system makes this junk.
I would rate inversion therapy as a 5 do it yourself traction is great for your back.
The table is very heavy duty, and I was very pleasantly surprised with the quality of the back board. It is of the minimum base quality I would expect to see in a gym not the highest quality, but still very solid and able to last a lifetime of home use.
Inverted sit-ups without the lock are possible, but you do experience some swing as your center of gravity shifts relative to the unlocked tables pivot point. Inverted crunches do not have as much sway. You have to go slow, but its achievable.
Before you purchase the Ironman be aware that this device takes up the space equivalent of a treadmill and you cannot fold it up and put it under a sofa.
Ironman ATIS 1000
The Ironman ATIS 1000 is very similar to the ATIS 4000. You get the same ab training system and 10 position locking system. The benefits to the ATIS 1000 is that it CAN be folded away for storage (the 4000 doesnt). It is a lighter machine making it easier to move around. It still holds up to 300 lbs. The ATIS 1000 inversion table is a better choice for those on a tighter budget or dont have the space for a bigger ATIS 4000.
Ironman ATIS 1000 Product Features
Same ab training system as the 4000
Oval tubing steel frame
Heavy nylon backrest
Memory foam vinyl pillow
Smart Gear 10 position locking angle
Frame allows up to 6 6 height
Supports up to 300 lbs
Folds for storage
measures 26 x 62 x 49 (W x H x D)
Weighs 76 lbs.
ATIS 1000 User Feedback
Checking Amazon again, users gave the ATIS 1000 4.5 out of 5 stars. Heres what some of those purchasers said:
I think this product is very well designed. The locking mechanism is an unique and valuable feature. In addition, the table feels sturdy and solid overall so you wont feel insecure hanging upside down on it. The only one design flaw is the location of the headrest.
My table had a couple of defective parts.the cap that covers the locking mechanism is broken..the siding/ edge of the leg adjustment is chipped/ crackedscrew hole that secures the ankle lock is loose.
Great product for relieving tension and the youngest does reverse crunches on it for a good lower ab work out.
IronMan ATIS 3500 Inversion Table
The ATIS 3500 is very similar to the ATIS 4000. It is a heavier duty inversion table than the ATIS 1000. The differences between the 3500 and the 4000 are minimal. The 4000 is a bit heavier
Ironman ATIS 3500 Product Features
2 1/2 foam backrest with 1Memory Foam for back support
Smart Gear 10 angle locking system
Ratchet Gear ankle ratchet system
Supports up to 320lbs
54x 29 x 7
Weighs 84 lbs.
ATIS 3500 User Feedback
The 3500 reviews are about the same as the other Ironman ATIS tables. Users give this table 4.3 out of 5 stars. Here are a few reviews from Amazon:
If youve done your research on whether this treatment is right for you then the table is solid, well made, easy to use, good value. I recommend it..After 3 months I am 90% better.
I had researched the ATIS 3500 and 4000 on the Web and, after reading comments from a couple of users about the ankle holds of the 4000 causing them some discomfort, and noticing that the ankle locking lever on the 4000 was considerably shorter than the 3500s necessitating the user to have to bend over farther to engage and disengage it, I decided to purchase the 3500.At 64 and 210 lbs. I feel safe using it and find it well-balanced and the ankle holds comfortable and easy to engage and disengage. By the way, this unit is now called the ATIS 5000 according to the manual and carton and is sold as the 5000 on a few other websites.Ironman + Amazon = a terrific table at an unbeatable price.
This Inversion table is the best thing Ive ever owned for my back problems(Degenerative disk disease).
Ironman Gravity Inversion Tables
| Gravity 4000 | Gravity 2000 | Gravity 1000 | |
| Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. | 300 lbs. | 300 lbs. |
| Height Adjustment | 6’6″ | 6’6″ | 6’6″ |
| Ankle Locking System | Ratchet System | Spring Loaded | Spring Loaded |
| Folds for Storage | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Product Weight | 82 lbs. | 75 lbs. | 46 lbs. |
| Price (Subject to change) | $235.45 | $167.54 | $134.54 |
Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table
The Gravity Inversion tables do not offer the ab training system that the above tables offer. However, the Gravity Tables are very good quality. This table can offer the same benefits as the above tables. The frames are not as durable as the ATIS tables, making this table a more economical choice.
Gravity 4000 Product Features
Tubular steel frame
Memory-foam nylon backrest
Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers
Inverts up to 90 degrees
Ergonomically molded ankle cushions
Supports up to 350 lbs.
Folds up for storage
Measures 26 x 65 x 49 (W x H x D)
Weighs 75 lbs.
Frame supports up to 66
Gravity 4000 User Feedback
The Gravity 4000 (aff link)is among the most popular of the Ironman inversion tables. According to Amazon it has over 200 reviews and is rated @ 4.7 out of 5 stars. Here’s what a few people have said:
It is a very solid device, and I have no worries of malfunction or getting hurt. The recommendations for use that comes with the manual are conservative and make sense..I cant think of one complaint, and I highly recommend this product.
The Ironman is a quality product, well constructed, with easy assembly directions. Took me about 30 minutes, straight-forward. Ankle pads are durable and comfortable. Absolutely no complaints here.
Ironman Gravity 1000 with Heat Therapy Cushion
The Gravity 1000 Inversion Table (with heat) gives you inversion therapy with heat therapy at the same time. Its probably the least popular of all of Ironmans inversion tables. You get the the same benefits as the other inversion tables but with an adjustable heat cushion to help loosen you up even further. It includes a remote control to monitor and adjust the heat levels. The heat cushion plugs into your basic electrical outlet and takes about 15 minutes to warm up. It warms up to 140 degrees.
Ironman Gravity 1000 w/ Heat Therapy Product Features
Ironman Infrared Heat Therapy Cushion.
Tubular steel frame
Supports up to 300 lbs
Height adjusts to 66
Foam covered safety handles
Folds for storage
Spring loaded ankle locking system
Product Weighs 46 lbs
Dimensions are 62H x 49L x 25W.
Heat cushion is ETL/CETL certified for safety
The master control box with LED readout out with timer
Uses Ironman carbon fiber technology.
Ironman Gravity 2000 Inversion Table
The Ironman 2000 Inversion Table is a good economical choice for those who want quality without having to pay maximum prices. Its the most popular of the Ironman Gravity tables.
Ironman Gravity 2000 Inversion Table Product Features
Tubular steel frame
Nylon backrest
Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers
Inverts up to 90 degrees
Ergonomically molded ankle cushions
Supports up to 300 pounds
Folds for storage
Measures 26 x 65 x 49 (W x H x D)
Weighs 55 lbs
Frame supports up to 6 6
Ironman 2000 Customer Feedback
As mentioned above, this is one of the most popular of the Gravity inversion tables. Amazon users give it 4.6 out of 5 stars. Heres what a few of them have said:
This is an elegant, durable, aesthetically pleasing machine. Simple and sturdy. The only difficulty that was encountered on assembly was slightly misaligned screw holes for attaching the feet.
There were so many inversion tables to choose from, it took me several weeks to decide which one to purchase. Finally, I selected the Ironman Gravity 2000. I was worried that the low price would be an indicator of lesser quality, but that was
not the case.
This table is sturdy and well made. I never feel unsafe on it
Ironman Gravity 1000 Inversion Table
The Gravity 1000 Inversion Table is the absolute most popular of the Ironman Gravity tables.One of my clients had this table and was tested by yours truly. I like it. The inversion takes a while to get used to. A few minutes a day makes a difference. I like both this and the ATIS 4000 table.
Gravity 1000 Product Features
Tubular steel frame
Nylo
n backrest
Rubber non-skid floor stabilizers
Inverts up to 90 degrees
Ergonomically molded ankle cushions
Supports up to 300 lbs
Folds for storage
Measures 25 x 62 x 49 (W x H x D)
Weighs 46 pounds
Ironman Gravity 1000 User Feedback
As with all other tables, Amazon users give the Gravity 1000 favorable reviews. Heres what they are saying:
This inversion table is built solid it doesnt appear to be cheap. As soon as I got on it, I felt a difference in my lower back.
The big drawback of this and most other inversion tables is that getting out of the inverted position requires you to bend at the waist and sit up, maybe there is a better way to do this, but it doesnt really seem that you can control the rate at which you sit up.
I think this device is a great price.perfect for some one trying inversion therapy for the first time.
I took two stars away from my rating because:
1) it does not fold up very easily and takes up a lot of space and
2) the ankle locks are not very comfortable. I found that if I wear sneakers that have a heavily padded tongue and upper that it is not as bad.
If I had to purchase again, I would spend more and find a model that has more comfortable ankle locks.
Ironman LX Inversion Tables
| LX300 | LXT850 | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 275 lbs. | 325 lbs. |
| Height Adjustment | 6’6″ | 6’6″ |
| Ankle Locking System | Spring Loaded | Ratchet System |
| Folds For Storage | No | Yes |
| Product Weight | 55 lbs. | 82 lbs. |
| Price (Subject to change) | $114.39 | $270.00 |
Ironman LX300 Inversion Therapy Table
The Ironman LX300 could be the budget friendliest of all of the inversion tables. If you are on a tight budget and you think that an inversion table can really benefit you, then this table is the one for you.
Ironman LX300 Product Features
Steel Frame
Foam vinyl covered backrest
Extra long safety handles
Weight capacity of 275 lbs.
Height adjustment up to 66
Measures 57 x 27 x 46.4 (HxWxD)
Weighs 55 pounds.
LX300 User Feedback
The Amazon reviews were good for this particular mode. Users gave the LX300 4.6 out of 5 starts. Thats very good considering it is the least expensive of all the Ironman inversion tables. Here are some of the comments from Amazon:
Easy to set-up..very sturdy and easy to use. The height and leg adjustments are easy to change, the padded backboard is very comfortable and moving from upright to inversion and back is very easy with the nicely padded handles. And, most importantly, my back feels great after a couple weeks of use.
A decent entry level table. Assembles easily and works fairly well. However, the padding is minimal and the length of the table is about two inches shorter than more expensive Ironman tables, so the end of the table may rest on your lower cranium rather than the midpoint, depending on the length of your legs and the balance point required for the table to easily rotate for your body. Again, you get what you pay for, and for occasional use this table is fine. But if you are a daily user, spend more and get a nicer table.
IronMan LXT850 Locking Inversion Therapy Table
The IronMan LXT850 is similar to the ATIS line of inversion tables. It also has the same 10 position locking system and it allows for ab training on the device.
Ironman LXT850 Product Features
Tubular steel frame
Nylon backrest with memory foam head support
Inverting grips
Smart Gear that locks at 10 different angles
Ab exercises can be performed
Offers lumbar support
Scale Locking System to lock ankles in place
Super Article Holder to store items
Supports up to 300 lbs.
Height adjusts to 66
LXT850 User Feedback
Just like the others, I checked Amazon for ratings and reviews and users gave the LXT850 4.6 out of 5 stars, but with only a handful of reviews. Heres what a couple of them said:
This Ironman LXT850 inversion table is the BEST! It was a Christmas gift to myself last year and I use it just about every day after my work-out and whenever Ive been standing for long periods of time.
Ive had the product for a little over a month. I use it for a few minutes just before I go to bed. I started feeling a difference in my back in just a couple of weeks. I used to wake up with stiffness, now theres none. I definitely recommend this to everyone with lower back pain.
Ironman IFT Inversion Tables
| IFT 4000 | IFT 3000 | IFT 1000 | RX9 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weigh Capacity | 350 lbs. | 360 lbs. | 350 lbs. | 275 lbs. |
| Height Adjustment | 6’6″ | 6’6″ | 6’6″ | 6’6″ |
| Ankle Locking System | Ratchet System | Spring Loaded | Spring Loaded | Spring Loaded |
| Folds For Storage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Product Weight | 83 lbs. | 75 lbs. | 84 lbs. | 62 lbs. |
| Price (Subject to change) | $322.94 | $326.43 | $264.57 | $283.67 |
Ironman IFT 4000 Infrared Therapy Inversion Table
The IFT 4000 is part of Ironman’s heated inversion table line. These products dont sell as well as traditional Ironman inversion units, but I would still consider them a good choice if you want to spend a little more money for the infared technology.
Ironman IFT 4000 Product Features
Advanced FIR heat technology
Carbon fiber heating elements in backrest
Remote control to adjust heat level
Heats up to 140 degrees
Inverts to 180 degrees
3 starting positions
Supports 350 pounds
Extra long safety handles
Height adjusts up to 66
Folds for storage
IFT 4000 User Feedback
As mentioned above, the IFT models dont sell as well as the more traditional models, so there arent as many reviews. Those who purchased and reviewed the 4000 on Amazon gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
The only negative review was from a user that shouldnt have bought the inversion table in the first place (detached retinas). This is an unfair rating and should not be considered.
**NOTE: Please read the health warnings at the end of this article before you decide to buy an inversion table.
Using Inversion Tables
If you have never used an inversion table be conservative with it. Don’t think that if a few minutes in traction feels good, then several more minutes will be better. That’s not the case. The inverted position is something your body will not be used to. Some users will experience light headedness or nausea after returning from the inverted position. I noticed a little light headedness myself after coming up a little too quick from being at 90 degrees inverted. Others have even noticed sinus problems. Just be cautious when first using the table.
You can use the tables as often as you want. You get use them everyday or a few times a week. There are individuals that will use the tables a few times per day, but only for a few minutes at a time. Experiment for yourself and see what amount of time and frequency works best for you.
Overall I think Ironman makes a high quality inversion table. As long as expectations are realistic, you will be satisfied no matter your purchase. If I had to choose one of the inversion tables it would have to be one of the ATIS tables. Im a bigger guy at 65 and around 220 and I would prefer a heavy duty framed product.
**Health Warnings
As always, get your doctors approval before using this type of product. Also, dont use this equipment if you have any of the following conditions:
High level of obesity
Glaucoma
retinal detachment
Pregnancy
Spinal injury
Cerebral Sclerosis
Joint problems (swelling)
Inner ear infection
High blood pressure
Recent stroke
Heart problems of any kind
circulatory disorders of any kind
Hernias
Osteoporosis
Recent fractures