What's a zero-gravity massage chair?

The term ‘Zero Gravity’ refers to a state or condition in which there is no (apparent) force or stress acting on a body. Ideally this would mean that the force of gravity is not acting on a body, but since that is only achievable in space, in realistic terms this means that the body is not under any stress because forces are evenly distributed across it. A detailed comparison of zero gravity chairs has been done by ComfortBro . The zero gravity massage chair took the market by storm nearly a decade ago, but do you really know how they work?

Zero gravity is a feature that is touted by many of the best (and most expensive) massage chairs on the market today. However, since it is impossible to defeat gravity on earth, is this just another marketing buzzword designed to attract the masses? Let’s take a further look into what really goes on in zero gravity massage chairs.

When you’re sitting in a normal chair, the forces of gravity are distributed unevenly across your body. This is where the main objective of a zero gravity massage chair comes from: to position the body in such a way that the forces of gravity are distributed evenly across it. It should be noted that it was not massage chair manufacturers that came up with this technology. When astronauts leave the earth’s gravitational force, they are subjected to a changing G forces that can be harmful to the human body. To counter this, they sit in a fully reclined position that ensures that the G forces are distributed evenly across the body.

A zero gravity massage chairs works in a similar manner. It is able to recline its user to such an extent that their legs are higher than their torso. This produces a feeling of apparent weightlessness, thus putting the user’s body in a much more relaxed state than a normal upright seating posture allows for. And because the user’s weight is now distributed equally across the chair, the massaging sensation is much more pronounced and the relaxation that can be derived from the robotic massage is much better as well.

Zero gravity is not a feature that is synonymous with massage chairs however. Normal reclining chairs can also offer you the same position, but because the all-important massage feature is missing, it will not necessarily take care of your body’s stress and pain.

You do not have to take the manufacturer’s word for it either. It has been observed that the zero gravity posture promotes better blood circulation in the legs (because of a lack of stress and pressure) and thus reduces the chances of swelling. This position is also useful in preventing conditions like varicose veins.

In practical experience these zero gravity massage chairs do not exactly replicate a true feeling of weightlessness, as the manufacturers often claim. However, they are successful in delivering a much more satisfying massage experience. The reclined position puts the body in a very relaxed and comfortable position, which increases the sensation produced by the massage chair’s heat pads, rollers and airbags. Another notable advantage is that the zero gravity position puts the user’s back in full contact with the massage chair’s backrest which means that no part of the back is left untouched by the massage routine. The same massage in an upright position might not be as effective as parts of the back will not be in contact because of the natural S-curve of the spine.

Does the zero gravity feature justify the increased premium it brings? It depends on the user. If you are looking for a basic massage experience, a budget massage chair under the $500 mark will serve you just fine. But if you want the best and most relaxing massage experience, the zero gravity feature is a must have.