Back Stretching Machines & Equipment 2024 + Expert Advice

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Back Stretching Machines & Equipment Reviews 2024 + Stretching Advice

Do you really need a stretch machine in your home gym?

Do you need to?

  • Relieve lower back pain, sciatica pain or other back problems in order to avoid surgery
  • Increase your range of motion for dance, martial arts, gymnastics, weightlifting or more
  • Preserve a healthy body and remain active regardless of age
  • Maintain healthy joints to easily perform every day exercises and continue your gym routine

If you answered yes to any of these then a stretch machine may be the perfect addition to your home gym.

Now the only question left is ‘how do I find the best stretching equipment’?

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Stretching Machines

Our Rating

Available

Editors
Choice
Teeter EP-560 Ltd. Inversion Table for Back Pain, FDA-Registered
  • FDA REGISTERED 510(k) DEVICE: Teeter is the ONLY FDA registered inversion table. Indicated for back pain, muscle tension, herniated disc, sciatica, muscle spasm, and more (see below)
  • PREMIUM FEATURES: Acupressure Nodes (8) in varied heights for trigger-point release and focused relief. Lumbar Bridge with adjustable arch for added traction and support
  • UNMATCHED COMFORT & SUPPORT: Patented wrap-around ankle cups are made from specialty foam. Contoured Bed with Hand Grips flexes for comfort and optimizes stretch for maximum relief
  • PRECISION ROTATION FOR TOTAL CONTROL: Shift your body weight with just simple arm movements for easy return to the upright position
  • HIGH GRADE MATERIALS FOR RELIABILITY: Heavy-gauge steel parts with patented security features like auto-locking hinges, cam locks, specialized pivot bearings for durability
Teeter EP-560 Ltd. FDA-Cleared Inversion Table
Teeter EP-560 Ltd. Inversion Table for Back Pain, FDA-Registered
  • FDA REGISTERED 510(k) DEVICE: Teeter is the ONLY FDA registered inversion table. Indicated for back pain, muscle tension, herniated disc, sciatica, muscle spasm, and more (see below)
  • PREMIUM FEATURES: Acupressure Nodes (8) in varied heights for trigger-point release and focused relief. Lumbar Bridge with adjustable arch for added traction and support
  • UNMATCHED COMFORT & SUPPORT: Patented wrap-around ankle cups are made from specialty foam. Contoured Bed with Hand Grips flexes for comfort and optimizes stretch for maximum relief
  • PRECISION ROTATION FOR TOTAL CONTROL: Shift your body weight with just simple arm movements for easy return to the upright position
  • HIGH GRADE MATERIALS FOR RELIABILITY: Heavy-gauge steel parts with patented security features like auto-locking hinges, cam locks, specialized pivot bearings for durability
Sale
INNOVA HEALTH AND FITNESS ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table, Standard Ankle Holding System, 300 lb Weight Capacity,Grey/Black
  • Ergonomic and Reversible Ankle Holding System (Ankle Holders can trade places)
  • True Balance System for easy inverting
  • Six (6) Position Adjustable Pin System with added Patented Protective Cover for easy positioning
  • Large, Comfortable Backrest with Adjustable Headrest
  • Accommodates users 4ft-10in to 6ft-6in with a 300 lb Weight Capacity
Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table
Sale
INNOVA HEALTH AND FITNESS ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table, Standard Ankle Holding System, 300 lb Weight Capacity,Grey/Black
  • Ergonomic and Reversible Ankle Holding System (Ankle Holders can trade places)
  • True Balance System for easy inverting
  • Six (6) Position Adjustable Pin System with added Patented Protective Cover for easy positioning
  • Large, Comfortable Backrest with Adjustable Headrest
  • Accommodates users 4ft-10in to 6ft-6in with a 300 lb Weight Capacity
Kettler Home Exercise/Fitness Equipment: APOLLO Gravity Inversion Therapy Table
  • Inversion system with sturdy, powder coated ergonomically formed tubing frame
  • High quality, hygienic and ergonomic comfort padding
  • Multi-adjustable footplate featuring easy entry and exit mechanism with safety push-button latch release
  • 7 fixed positions with quick adjustments beyond 180 degree angle
  • Inventive folding mechanism for easy space storage
Kettler APOLLO Gravity Inversion Therapy Table
Kettler Home Exercise/Fitness Equipment: APOLLO Gravity Inversion Therapy Table
  • Inversion system with sturdy, powder coated ergonomically formed tubing frame
  • High quality, hygienic and ergonomic comfort padding
  • Multi-adjustable footplate featuring easy entry and exit mechanism with safety push-button latch release
  • 7 fixed positions with quick adjustments beyond 180 degree angle
  • Inventive folding mechanism for easy space storage
Stamina InLine Bench - Back Stretch Decompression Bench - Inversion Table Workout Bench for Home Workout - Up to 250 lbs Weight Capacity
  • STAMINA INLINE BENCH - Our InLine bench provides a non-invasive form of traction therapy that stretches and strengthens your back, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. This back stretch bench helps in improving your posture, mobility, and balance.
  • BACK DECOMPRESSION - This stretch bench can help realign your back and joints, and stretching can increase blood circulation to your spine. Exercising on this decompression bench may achieve spinal relief while reducing pressure caused by daily activities.
  • PORTABLE STRETCH BENCH - This simple, portable bench is designed for users with limited space and works as a great alternative to an inversion table that may help reduce back pain and give spinal decompression through use, without having to flip upside down on a table.
  • CONTOURED, CUSHIONED, AND COMFORTABLE - This fitness bench is designed with easy height and length adjustment and an easy-to-operate traction lever. This workout bench also has cushioned bench and contoured, foam-padded ankle and arm supports for maximum comfort.
  • CONVENIENT HOME WORKOUT EQUIPMENT - Our InLine bench is suitable for strengthening the back while improving your posture and mobility. Providing you with a new way to decompress, and counteract the effects of sitting all day by stretching your back, hips, knees, and ankles with the Stamina Back Stretch Bench.
Stamina In Line Back Stretch Bench
Stamina InLine Bench - Back Stretch Decompression Bench - Inversion Table Workout Bench for Home Workout - Up to 250 lbs Weight Capacity
  • STAMINA INLINE BENCH - Our InLine bench provides a non-invasive form of traction therapy that stretches and strengthens your back, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. This back stretch bench helps in improving your posture, mobility, and balance.
  • BACK DECOMPRESSION - This stretch bench can help realign your back and joints, and stretching can increase blood circulation to your spine. Exercising on this decompression bench may achieve spinal relief while reducing pressure caused by daily activities.
  • PORTABLE STRETCH BENCH - This simple, portable bench is designed for users with limited space and works as a great alternative to an inversion table that may help reduce back pain and give spinal decompression through use, without having to flip upside down on a table.
  • CONTOURED, CUSHIONED, AND COMFORTABLE - This fitness bench is designed with easy height and length adjustment and an easy-to-operate traction lever. This workout bench also has cushioned bench and contoured, foam-padded ankle and arm supports for maximum comfort.
  • CONVENIENT HOME WORKOUT EQUIPMENT - Our InLine bench is suitable for strengthening the back while improving your posture and mobility. Providing you with a new way to decompress, and counteract the effects of sitting all day by stretching your back, hips, knees, and ankles with the Stamina Back Stretch Bench.
Stretching Machine Limber Pro (with Patented Adjustable slide and Lock Seat, Calf Stretch Station and removable media shelf) Great for for stretching to increase flexibility and decrease back pain.
  • 🟢 Seat adjusts to fit users of varying size
  • 🟢 Adjustable & removable calf stretch board with designated support handles
  • 🟢 9 Stretch exercises illustrated on handle bar mount placard
  • 🟢 Removeable Media Shelf to watch our online stretch video on your phone or tablet.
  • 🟢 Integrated wheels for easy moving
Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine
Stretching Machine Limber Pro (with Patented Adjustable slide and Lock Seat, Calf Stretch Station and removable media shelf) Great for for stretching to increase flexibility and decrease back pain.
  • 🟢 Seat adjusts to fit users of varying size
  • 🟢 Adjustable & removable calf stretch board with designated support handles
  • 🟢 9 Stretch exercises illustrated on handle bar mount placard
  • 🟢 Removeable Media Shelf to watch our online stretch video on your phone or tablet.
  • 🟢 Integrated wheels for easy moving

There are several types of stretching machines out there, each with their own specialty.

We will show you how each type can benefit you, give you reviews of the best stretching equipment, and show you what to look for before deciding.

Plus, we offer our top 5 tips for using this type of equipment.

Why Stretching Machines are Important?

Stretch machines offer the athlete guidance and assistance that can not be found by stretching on your own.

It is nearly impossible to stretch your multifidus, the muscle that holds together and stabilizes the spine, on your own. You need a machine with enough pulling tension to stretch this muscle.

Some machines can allow you to easily, quickly and accurately hit all major muscle groups, making your workout routine more efficient and effective.

Stretch machines are an excellent tool in any athletes arsenal.

fitness stretching concept

What are Stretching Machines Good for and Why You Need One in Your Home Gym!

Back pain

Back pain is probably the number one reason folks invest in stretching machines.

Stretching the back in the right way, with the right equipment helps alleviate pain.

The best exercise machine for back pain can help the back pain sufferer reduce reliance on medication and painkillers and help them become active again.

Some even find that consistent stretching of the back using the right machine, helped them with pain as much as a trip to the chiropractor.

Some stretch machine users said they maintained a commercial gym membership, just to drive 15 minutes to the gym and use their stretch machine to get relief.

A stretch machine for the home gyms is a wise investment.

You may save of fees to visit the chiropractors table, drop a costly gym membership and maintain a healthy body and joints.

4 Types of Stretch Machines

Inversion Tables

Inversion tables are used for stretching or decompressing the lumbar spine in order to alleviate, lower or manage low and mid back pain. These machines use your body weight to cause traction and stretch the spine.

Who the Inversion Table is NOT for:

Anyone who can not have pressure in the head, ears, eyes and so forth. The inversion position causes pressure in the head.

Those with blood pressure and heart problems should avoid inversion machines, because using an inversion table can cause an increase in BP while using.

An in-line back stretch machine is a better option.

Horizontal Back Decompression In Line Back Stretch Machines

These back stretch machines allow you to lie horizontally, just like you would at the Chiropractors.

They stretch the spine by hooking in your ankles, or placing a harness around your hips, and then moving your back up, stretching the entire spine. This type of machine is the best stretching machine for the back.

There is one version of in line back stretch machine that offers more pulling tension than an inversion machine, much like a professional table would.

Full Body Stretch Machines

These are the type of machine you will find in a commercial gym. They allow you to stretch all major muscle groups, including the back.

They are used to build flexibility and range of motion. These machines are universal, all-purpose equipment and are a good fit for all types of athletes of any age.

They are very popular and make an excellent addition to a home gym because they are versatile and hit all muscle groups.

Leg Stretchers

Leg stretchers focus on the hamstring, the set of three muscles that run down the back of the leg. This machine helps stretch the muscles and tendons involved with ‘doing the splits’ or doing high kicks.

These machines are prized by martial artists, dancers, gymnasts and even weight lifters and CrossFitters.

TOP 9 Best Stretching Equipment 2024

Inversion Table – Back stretching machine

Teeter EP-560 Ltd. FDA-Cleared Inversion Table

Teeter EP-560 Ltd. Inversion Table for Back Pain, FDA-Registered
  • FDA REGISTERED 510(k) DEVICE: Teeter is the ONLY FDA registered inversion table. Indicated for back pain, muscle tension, herniated disc, sciatica, muscle spasm, and more (see below)
  • PREMIUM FEATURES: Acupressure Nodes (8) in varied heights for trigger-point release and focused relief. Lumbar Bridge with adjustable arch for added traction and support
  • UNMATCHED COMFORT & SUPPORT: Patented wrap-around ankle cups are made from specialty foam. Contoured Bed with Hand Grips flexes for comfort and optimizes stretch for maximum relief
  • PRECISION ROTATION FOR TOTAL CONTROL: Shift your body weight with just simple arm movements for easy return to the upright position
  • HIGH GRADE MATERIALS FOR RELIABILITY: Heavy-gauge steel parts with patented security features like auto-locking hinges, cam locks, specialized pivot bearings for durability

Review: This top rated Teeter Inversion Table has several unique features that set it apart from the rest.

It is designed with comfortable pressure reducing ankle cuffs, built in handles that allow you to stretch the spine buy twisting a bit plus, it folds for easy storage.

PROS
  • Smooth bed surface so the body slides allowing a good stretch – unlike the vinyl beds of less expensive machines
  • Folding design for compact storage
  • Ankle cuffs evenly distribute weight, plus the foot platform is adjustable for small or large feet. Far more comfortable than the bar lock found on less expensive models.
  • Built in handles to facilitate stretching
CONS
  • Slightly more expensive than others
TAKEAWAY

As beautiful as it is useful, worth the extra investment.

Kettler APOLLO Gravity Inversion Therapy Table

Kettler Home Exercise/Fitness Equipment: APOLLO Gravity Inversion Therapy Table
  • Inversion system with sturdy, powder coated ergonomically formed tubing frame
  • High quality, hygienic and ergonomic comfort padding
  • Multi-adjustable footplate featuring easy entry and exit mechanism with safety push-button latch release
  • 7 fixed positions with quick adjustments beyond 180 degree angle
  • Inventive folding mechanism for easy space storage

 

Review: This inversion table is made in Germany has an adjustable footplate with easy entry, 7 inversion adjustments and a comfortable padded back.

PROS
  • Novel Easy fold system-for fast storage
  • Max inversion of 150 degrees
  • Integrated handlebars for easy entry and exit, plus stretching
CONS
  • Challenging to assemble
TAKEAWAY

German quality, craftsmanship and ingenuity are behind the design and manufacture of this inversion table.

Innova ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table

Sale
INNOVA HEALTH AND FITNESS ITX9600 Heavy Duty Inversion Table, Standard Ankle Holding System, 300 lb Weight Capacity,Grey/Black
  • Ergonomic and Reversible Ankle Holding System (Ankle Holders can trade places)
  • True Balance System for easy inverting
  • Six (6) Position Adjustable Pin System with added Patented Protective Cover for easy positioning
  • Large, Comfortable Backrest with Adjustable Headrest
  • Accommodates users 4ft-10in to 6ft-6in with a 300 lb Weight Capacity

Review: The budget friendly inversion table that helps alleviate back pain by using body weight to stretch the spine.

PROS
  • Adjustable height, footrest and headrest for a perfect fit
  • 5 Angles available, adjusted via a pin and slot
  • Folds up similar to how a ladder folds, to a nearly flat position
  • Value priced
CONS
  • Challenging to assemble, instruction pictures are small
TAKEAWAY

Uncomplicated, Sturdy, affordable inversion table.

Horizontal In line Stretcher – Back Stretching Machines

Stamina In Line Back Stretch Bench

Stamina InLine Bench - Back Stretch Decompression Bench - Inversion Table Workout Bench for Home Workout - Up to 250 lbs Weight Capacity
  • STAMINA INLINE BENCH - Our InLine bench provides a non-invasive form of traction therapy that stretches and strengthens your back, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. This back stretch bench helps in improving your posture, mobility, and balance.
  • BACK DECOMPRESSION - This stretch bench can help realign your back and joints, and stretching can increase blood circulation to your spine. Exercising on this decompression bench may achieve spinal relief while reducing pressure caused by daily activities.
  • PORTABLE STRETCH BENCH - This simple, portable bench is designed for users with limited space and works as a great alternative to an inversion table that may help reduce back pain and give spinal decompression through use, without having to flip upside down on a table.
  • CONTOURED, CUSHIONED, AND COMFORTABLE - This fitness bench is designed with easy height and length adjustment and an easy-to-operate traction lever. This workout bench also has cushioned bench and contoured, foam-padded ankle and arm supports for maximum comfort.
  • CONVENIENT HOME WORKOUT EQUIPMENT - Our InLine bench is suitable for strengthening the back while improving your posture and mobility. Providing you with a new way to decompress, and counteract the effects of sitting all day by stretching your back, hips, knees, and ankles with the Stamina Back Stretch Bench.

Review: This simple in line horizontal back stretch bench is very easy to use and requires no inversion or hanging from your feet.

You always remain in a horizontal position. It is easy to get into and a breeze to use. This machine stretches back, hips and ankles with ease.

PROS
  • Adjustable foot beam and arm rests.
  • Stretch occurs when ratchet a lever on the right side of the bench, stretching your spine bit by bit, giving you complete control of how much stretch you want
  • Quickly release the stretch by pushing the lever in the other direction
  • Portable, includes transport wheels
CONS
  • Some users find the under arm handles uncomfortable
TAKEAWAY

Small price for such a great relief of back pain.

LumbarTrac Spinal Fitness Machine

LumbarTrac Spinal Fitness Machine (X-Large Harness Fits Waist 31" to 62") Cervical Halter Not Included
  • The Last Back Pain Relief Product You Will Ever Purchase
  • Eliminates The Need For Future Visits To Medical Doctors, Chiropractors, Massage Therapists, and Physical Therapists For Back Pain
  • Relieves Back Pain By Decompressing The Entire Spine From Top To Bottom
  • Extremely Comfortable and Directs Pulling Force Directly Where It Is Needed In The Spine With Absolutely No Pain
  • Provides Any Amount Of Force Needed Via A Gearbox That You Are In Full Control Of For Precision Adjustments To Provide The Exact Amount Of "Pull" Your Spine Needs For Long Lasting Relief

Review: This machine may eliminate the need for another trip to the chiropractor to stretch the spine and alleviate lower back pain.

This machine features a harness for the hips, and another that fit just under the rib cage. Easily one of the best machines for back pain.

PROS
  • Ability to create more pulling tension than an inversion table. Manufacture claims this machine offers enough force to stretch the multifidi, which is the muscle hat holds the spine together
  • Avoid pulling on the legs, knees and ankles
  • Easy smooth adjustment wheel allows the exact right amount of pulling tension you need
CONS
  • Pricy, but not when compared to Dr. visits and surgery
TAKEAWAY

An excellent solution that allows the user to lie flat, use a lot of pulling tension, and avoid pulling on the ankles and knees. Best machine for back pain.

Best stretching machines

Gronk Fitness Commercial Stretch Machine

Review: This Gronk Commercial Stretch machine offers a great value for the home gym because it facilitates stretching of each major muscle group in the body.

PROS
  • Lower back, Upper back, shoulder, groin, hamstring and glute stretch and more
  • Instruction illustrations displayed on the front
  • Wrist straps included I the event you lose grip-a safety feature.
  • Integrated front pads offer the ability to stretch muscles that similar machines don’t
  • Adjustable handlebars
  • Well designed for people of all heights
CONS
  • The seat is somewhat small
TAKEAWAY

Best in class among exercise equipment stretching machines.

ProFlex Stretch Machine

Proflex Stretch
  • Enhances physical efficiency and performance.
  • Increases fluidity of movement, enhances posture and improves coordination.
  • Improves relaxation, reduces stress and promotes an overall sense of well-being.
  • Increases flexibility for people who experience lower back pain due to inflexibility in the major muscle groups and joints.
  • Improves circulation and joint nutrition, helping to safeguard against degenerative diseases.

Review: What sets the Proflex Stretch machine apart from other all body stretch machines is the front boom that allows for the hanging bar stretch that stretches shoulders, decompresses the spine and stretches the thoracic cage.

It is also one of the best exercise machines for hips and thighs.

PROS
  • Front boom that allows for hanging stretch
  • Crank that opens the legs for the leg stretch
  • Boom can be set to several angles for various stretches and enforces proper form
  • Boom swivels for single leg and other isolated leg and back stretches
  • Includes instruction manual, wheels for transport and is easy to put together (wrenches included)
  • Best workmanship and build
CONS
  • The manuals could offer more advice on how to use. Their website offers several user videos, however.
TAKEAWAY

The most unique exercise equipment stretching machines available, highly versatile.

This is our easily favorite all over body stretch machine.

Nitrofit Limber Pro Stretch Machine

Stretching Machine Limber Pro (with Patented Adjustable slide and Lock Seat, Calf Stretch Station and removable media shelf) Great for for stretching to increase flexibility and decrease back pain.
  • 🟢 Seat adjusts to fit users of varying size
  • 🟢 Adjustable & removable calf stretch board with designated support handles
  • 🟢 9 Stretch exercises illustrated on handle bar mount placard
  • 🟢 Removeable Media Shelf to watch our online stretch video on your phone or tablet.
  • 🟢 Integrated wheels for easy moving

Review: This Nitrolift is far less expensive than the name brand competition, yet delivers the same quality and variety of stretch. Plus, it has a removable plate for calf stretches.

PROS
  • Removable plate for calf stretch
  • Instruction plate above handlebars- very handy
  • Height adjustable seat to fit all height people
  • Safety wrist straps included
  • Includes support bracket to accommodate folks up to 300 lbs
  • Accessible price
CONS
  • The machine padding could be better for the hamstring stretch
TAKEAWAY

This stretch machine is easy on the wallet, helps with back pain, and is a great back stretching machine for your home gym.

Best leg stretcher

Pro Leg Stretcher

Pro Leg Stretcher
  • Get your splits and stretch beyond 180 degrees!
  • Makes stretching easier
  • Sturdy construction and steering wheel assembly
  • Padded foot rests, seat, and adjustable back support
  • Comes FULLY ASSEMBLED

Review: Train your legs to do the splits like contortionists with this leg machine that enables you to stretch your legs beyond 180 degrees.

The best leg stretching machine, perfect for martial arts, dance, contortion and more.

PROS
  • Shipped fully assembled
  • Easy smooth crank wheel action put you in control of your stretch
  • Seat back and wheels are removable to store under a bed
  • Excellent hamstring, hip and pelvic area stretch
CONS
  • The plywood of the seat is thin, but even heavy users have successfully used the machine
TAKEAWAY

The best leg stretcher machine for martial arts and more at an unbeatable price.

What to Keep in Mind when Choosing the Best Stretching Equipment

  • Space – Make sure you have room for the equipment. Some machines fold up or have removable pieces that make storage easier. Envision the pieces of equipment in the space you have and measure the space, comparing it to the equipment footprint.
  • Easy assembly – a machine that comes assembled, or includes the tools needed, and clear instructions is ideal. You should also check to see if you need more than one person to assemble the equipment.
  • Stretch control – Machines that use a wheel or other form of gradual stretch are superior to those that use incremental stretch.

Top 5 Pieces of Advice for using Stretching Machines

1. You must be able to relax your muscles to use these machines.

If you are having trouble relaxing the back muscles because they are so tight, try placing a heating pad on the bench first. Once you feel your muscles relax start off with a small stretch.

2. When using an inversion table, start with 15 to 30 second increments and work up from there.

Too much time in an inverted position can cause headaches, nausea and other ill effects. Many doctors advise a maximum of 2 minutes.

3. Use the machine consistently.

Remember, the behavior that leads to tight muscles or sore backs is likely done consistently or something you do every day, like sitting at a desk for 8 hours.

Likewise, your stretch routine also needs to be done consistently to counteract the effects and keep you pain free.

4. Always warm up before stretching.

10 minute on the treadmill or elliptical or some light cardio should do the trick.

5. Make stretching a part of your workout routine and use the stretching machine each time you work out.

Some of the flexibility and range of motion you gain by stretching can be lost in as little as a few days, and much of it can be lost if you do not stretch for a few weeks

Don’t wait, Stretch yourself and get the best stretching equipment for your home gym today.