The Elite Fitness IT 9250 inversion table is one of the more popular ‘less expensive’ inversion tables on the market today. It comes with a few features that other $100′ish tables don’t have, including a bar in the back that allows you to invert safely at three different angles (most other models have some type of strap that you use to regulate the inversion angles), and easy to reach ankle lock, a padded head rest, and what the company calls a ‘pod style’ base which allows you to adjust the frame in case you are on slightly uneven ground.
Unfortunately, as with other less expensive models, the IT 9250 does not allow for core workouts and thus should only be considered for those looking to purchase an inversion table for therapeutic and stretching reasons only.
Features Checklist:
Max Height: 6 foot 4 inches
Max Weight: 250 pounds
Core Workouts: NO
Decompress Joints: YES
Limited Mobility: YES
Foldable: YES
Our Elite Fitness Inversion Table Review
Overall Score: 3.9 / 5.0
[tabs slidertype="top tabs" fx="slide"] [tabcontainer] [tabtext]Ease of Use[/tabtext] [tabtext]Features[/tabtext] [tabtext]Design/Build[/tabtext] [tabtext]Customer Reviews[/tabtext] [/tabcontainer] [tabcontent] [tab]Rating: 3.8 / 5.0
I’m breaking this section into two smaller sections – actually using the Elite Fitness IT 9250, and setting up the inversion table.
First, sett-up is actually easier than other comparable inversion tables, provided you do one very important thing: use your own socket wrench. When I tried to use the included toy wrenches they just didn’t work. If you have your own wrench then you should be able to put this together in about an hour.
Second, using the Elite IT 9250 is very straight forward. It’s a basic inversion table that allows you to invert to three different angles (and that’s it). As far as the ankle clamps go, while this is not the best and most comfortable table I’ve found, I would say it’s slightly above average for the $100 – $130 price range. I would recommend wearing socks and/or shoes for more comfort.
Laying on the back rest is fairly comfortable, but I would like to see a little more padding on the metal support bars both on the side and in your back. The headrest is nice, although some taller people will need to remove the headrest in order to fit better on the table. OVerall, the comfort level is decent, I would say about average in this area.
Finally, when I look at ‘doing what it’s supposed to do’, or inverting and helping me stretch out my back, muscles, and joints, I think Elite did a decent job. I always like to see the ability to invert to a full 90 degrees, which you can’t with this table – max inversion is about a 60 degree angle. In addition, there is obviously no core workouts that you will be doing on this machine, as it won’t lock into place. However, it does go up and down nicely and having extended handles make coming back up even easier.
[/tab] [tab]Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
Features are where this table gets interesting. The bottom line is that the table is a very basic, decent inversion therapy device. However, you will find the following features that are not as common in this price range:
- Easy to reach ankle locks. No, they aren’t as good and easy to use as the Teeter EP-950, but it’s a nice feature to have, especially if you are mobily challenged by back pain and can’t bend over easily
- Extended reach handles. These come in handy for cases where you haven’t balanced the table just right and don’t come up by simply raising your hands. In addition, with these you can do a limited amount of traction therapy (but you have to know what you are doing in figuring out your balance since the table doesn’t lock).
- Rear inversion safety bar. This is the bar that rests behind you as you invert, preventing you from over-inverting. They call it a safety bar, which is probably accurate for inexperienced inverters. However, for me, I prefer the ability to fully invert and invert at exactly the angle I want. Of course, that can take some practice, so for someone who wants a very simple, easy way to invert they will probably appreciate the safety bar in the back. In addition, the bar does allow you to invert to 60 degrees, which is the angle at which you experience most of the inversion therapy benefits.
- Padded headrest. Again, this is a nice addition for most people, but can also be easily removed.
- ‘Pod’-style adjustable frame. This is very unique to the Elite inversion table, and I find this feature interesting, although a little gimmicky. The purpose of the pod legs is to be able to adjust the table when you are on uneven ground. Personally, I don’t think I would trust this and would never invert on an unlevel flooring surface..but that’s just me.
[/tab] [tab]Rating: 3.5 / 5.0
The elite fitness is not UL 1647 certified. However, it does feel very sturdy and is slightly above average when compared to other sub $130 inversion tables. However, note that it is only ‘rated’ for usage up to 250 pounds. If you are close to that weight range then I would recommend purchasing a more sturdy table, such as the Fitform inversion table, which is made by Teeter. You will spend a little more, but it’s worth the $40.
[/tab] [tab]Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 Stars
Most customers really love this table. On Amazon.com it has recieved only (1) 2-star review, all the other 30+ reviews have been 4 or 5 stars. Of course, most people also realize that they are getting a less expensive model, and they are not expecting the most comfortable, sturdy inversion table on the market.
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Bottom Line Elite Fitness Inversion Table Review
The bottom line with the IT 9250 is that it’s a decent table, at a good price. No, it’s not the best inversion table in the world, but if you are looking to spend around $120, then you would be very happy with this model. Again, I would recommend spending a little more and looking at the Fitform inversion table by Teeterif you are on a budget, but of course you will end up spending more if you go that route.
Best Place To Purchase the Elite Fitness IT 9250 Inversion Therapy Table
I would recommend you look first at Amazon.com. Not only are they one of the only online sites that currently is sellling the Elite Therapy table, but they also have great deals and free shipping.