First in the running “off-season” there was strength training, then swimming. Now I’ve literally turned my workouts upside down. What? I had the opportunity to test a Teeter Hangup. What on earth is a Teeter Hangup? This was new to me too. No, it’s not something out of 50 Shades of Grey but rather an inversion table.
Basically getting your heart above your head is considered an inversion. You’ve probably practiced inversions in yoga. Why is inverting the body beneficial to your health? Let us count the ways:
- Improves Circulation: Inversion increases bloodflow to the brain, giving it more oxygen and nutrients so it will function better and faster. Concentration, memory and clarity are all enhanced.
- Enhances Flexibility: Inversion creates space between vertebra, joints and ligaments, making you feel less rigid and more relaxed.
- Boosts Immunity: Enhanced circulation has a cleansing effect on the lymphatic system; releases toxins.
- Helps the Body Recover from the compressive effects of gravity and strenuous activities like running.
- Balances Mood Swings: Increased blood flow helps release neurotransmitters, balance hormones and reduce depression.
- Reduces Tension in the neck, back and shoulders.
- Relieves Spinal Pain and encourages better posture.
My first impression: I had no idea what to expect. So I slipped my feet in the cushioned holders and adjusted the pin so my ankles were held securely.
Then I simply leaned back and eased over and down. All very controlled and comfortable. I could feel my body automatically release and relax.
The Teeter Hangup Inversion Table goes all the way back to a full upside down position by releasing a belt. I have not yet tried this, but I will soon! It comes with 8 assorted accupressure nodes you insert wherever you need pressure point relief. There’s also a lumbar bridge that can be adjusted for a deeper stretch. Speaking of stretching, the Teeter Hangup comes with a DVD featuring 5 medically-designed stretching routines.
The Verdict: I was pretty darn impressed with the Teeter Hang Up. I’ve been using it for a few minutes a couple of times everyday. I find it relaxing and my body feels very refreshed and renewed after being inverted. I can’t wait to see how it helps recovery when I go back to marathon training.
Note: I was provided product free of charge for review purposes. As always, all opinions are my own.
Do you do inversions? Have you ever tried an inversion table?
I can see the benefits of this device. I do inversions in yoga, and I always feel better after. Backbending opens me up too, and it looks like this does a little of that too. But since this is passive, ahhhhh….
i tried one at a friend’s house once – i love being upside down lol seriously though! handstands, especially!
I have never tried one but yoga inversions always make me feel great.
WOW! I’d be very interested in one of these, no matter the fear of getting stuck upside-down.
We’ve had one for years, but I’ve only used it a handful of times. Maybe that should change!
I’ve never tried the inversion thing but one of my neighbors has one – maybe I should see if I could borrow it.
i have an inversion table since injuring my lower back (twice now). It definitely helps “stretch you out” (for lack of a better description). I think they are very beneficial!
I’ve been using my inversion table after long runs….. amazing feeling! amazing results!
I can imagine that your back would feel great after spending some time on one of these. My back is where I carry a lot of tension and I often have to spend time on a roller getting out the kinks. This would do a similar job but a little less painfully.
I would love to do more kinds of inversion. I remember there used to be boots that would hang from your doorway in the house that you could latch your feet into but I was always worried I would fall on my head.
This looks way better and would really stretch you out. I would love to try it
that does look amazing and what a fun product to test! I bet this will be a perfect companion to all your tri training !
That’s fascinating! I do inversions in yoga and love how they feel; this looks like a great product.
Very cool, I had never heard of an inversion table before this.
More comfortable than monkey bars, and safer too, it seems!
I have a friend that swears by this so eager to hear your longer time use opinion!
i’ve seen these and always wanted to try one! i’ve heard they are great if you have back issues, too.