In the 1960s and 70s chiropractor and osteopath Dr. Robert M. Martin introduced inversion exercises to the mainstream, and his inversion tables and boots soon became the fad. To explain the overall value of inversion, Martin divided posture into two categories: common postures and uncommon postures. Common postures refer to the way we spend most of our day and include standing and sitting. Uncommon postures are those positions we rarely find ourselves in—hanging upside down, headstand, and standing back bend. According to Dr. Martin, practicing uncommon postures offset the spine compressing forces of gravity.

Inversion exercises have long been used to alleviate back pain by relieving stress on the spine and neck, but their benefits extend to anyone who pursues traditional exercises, from running to walking.

“Gravity is a considerable stressor to our body and when exercising primarily in the upright position we are adding to this stress. When inverted, forces (gravity) work opposite on the body than when standing. For example, in the spine the spaces between the vertebrae are enlarged and stress on the spine is relieved. This may help backache and soreness, can relax overtaxed muscles, and it can give the exerciser an awareness of proper spine position. Also, in this position, core muscles can be strengthened without stressing the spine.

“Inversion can act positively on the cardiovascular system, as blood flow is in some parts aided, and in other parts challenged, which can lead to a mild cardiovascular workout. I can imagine that regular inversion can have a positive effect in fighting varicose veins, and, as blood is helped to infuse the brain, the increased oxygen it carries may have a positive impact on maintaining brain function in later years. Inversion will stimulate the upper regions of the inner ear, which may enhance the sense of orientation and general balance, aiding individuals to maintain orientation when quick position changes are voluntary or caused by outside forces.”

Women who are pregnant and individuals suffering from glaucoma, hypertension and various other conditions, including vascular disease and detached retina are just a few who should not invert.

To be on the safe side, consult your doctor before incorporating inversions into your regimen.

Always invert with a partner. “People should not do inversion exercises unsupervised