Inversion therapy is a popular form of at-home back treatment in which a person hangs upside down (or at least, at an angle) on an inversion table, using gravity to stretch out their back.
Studies find that inversion therapy can forestall the need for back surgery and also speed recovery from surgery, particularly with lumbar disc problems.
There are many different brands of inversion table, each with their own pros and cons. We already discussed Teeter inversion tables, and how to use them, in a previous article. Here we’ll take a look at another brand, Ironman inversion tables.
Compared to Teeter, Ironman inversion table models tend to have heavier construction and higher weight limits. Some Ironman tables also feature electric heat pads or infrared heat pads (we’ll explain the difference in a bit) to warm and loosen up the lower back, allowing it to flex more easily with less pain during your inversion sessions.
Ironman Inversion Table Reviews
Ironman has historically sold many models of inversion table under their Gravity series, starting with the Ironman 1000 inversion table. Right now the 4000 and 5000 are their newest models, each strong in different ways. The Ironman Gravity 3000 is also still on sale, which the Gravity 1000 and Ironman 2000 tables are being, or have been, phased out.
Another thing to note, in terms of nomenclature, is that Ironman claims 180 degrees of inversion. This means their tables can invert all the way upside down, which most brands refer to as 90 degrees of inversion. That’s just a matter of reference point– upside down is 90 degrees from horizontal or 180 degrees from upright.
Best Ironman Inversion Table
Ironman IFT 4000 Infrared Therapy Table
This is Ironman’s most advanced inversion table model– the Ironman Gravity 4000 with added ift capability. Some other inversion table brands have models that include heat pads, but Ironman’s carbon fiber far infrared heat therapy pad uses infrared rays which convert to heat inside the body. The difference this makes is that the infrared rays get a little ways through the skin before being absorbed by the body and converted to heat, so they do a better job of heating the muscles vs the skin.
Other features include a very comfortable 2.5 inch padded backrest, the ability to invert all the way upside down, a 350 pound weight limit, and handles which are easy to grasp from multiple angles, including a pair of inverted grips near the floor.
Another unusual feature is the multiple starting positions, making the Ironman 4000 inversion table easy to get in and out of for people of different heights and builds, especially in combination with the palm-activated ratchet system for locking the ankles in place.
This is Ironman’s most popular and well-reviewed model due to the combination of unique features and unrivaled comfort.
Most Affordable Ironman Inversion Table
Ironman High Capacity Gravity 3000 Inversion Table
This slightly older version of the Ironman table features the same palm-activated ratchet system, the same 2.5-inch back pad, and the same easy to grip handles, including the inverted handle grips. It also holds 350 pounds and fits users up to 6’6 tall.
It doesn’t have the far infrared heat therapy device, however, which is the main reason it’s so much cheaper. It does invert to 180 degrees (upside down) and also features an ankle strap for holding your ankles more comfortably in place, which the Ironman 4000 doesn’t have.
All in all, this is the best option for someone who doesn’t feel the need for an inversion table with a heat pad.
Editor’s note on May 28, 2022: Currently out of stock. We will update this review when it’s available.
Newest Ironman Inversion Table
Ironman Gravity 5000 Inversion Table
This is Ironman’s newest inversion table model. It features several design improvements over the Ironman 4000, though without including the infrared heat pad.
Most notably, their patent pending Airsoft ankle holders feature several internal air pockets which inflate as needed, allowing the ankle holders to mold to the shape of your ankles. This spreads the pressure more evenly over your ankles, with no pinch or pain.
There’s also a removable lumbar pillow to better support lower back curvature, as well as improved non-skid floor stabilizers. Like other Ironman models, this holds up to a 350 pound, 6’6 person, and can invert completely upside down.
Editor’s note on May 28, 2022: Currently out of stock. We will update this review when it’s available.
Want to learn more about inversion therapy? Read our article on everything you need to know about inversion tables.
Editor’s note: we are regularly updating this review. If you see any problems, weird interpretations of the data, or just want to say hi, please reach out to hello@the-unwinder.com.
