Zero Gravity by the Numbers

chart-showing-zero-gravity-chair-increase

With 8.2% of American adults experiencing chronic severe back pain, and 74.8% of those experience difficulties with mobility, social participation, self-care, or work1, it’s no wonder that finding the right furniture to help with pain relief, like zero gravity recliners, is becoming more and more necessary.

Before choosing your newest furniture addition, it’s important to take a look at zero gravity chair research to see for yourself how these modern recliners may benefit you in ways traditional recliners simply can’t. 

Continue reading as this guide presents what the research actually shows, where the numbers come from, and why this type of chair has become such an integral and popular choice. You’ll learn how NASA’s neutral body posture inspired modern zero gravity design, what the science says about physical and mental benefits, and how many people are choosing zero gravity recliners over traditional models.

How Zero Gravity Chairs Got Started

Potential zero gravity chair benefits stem from a simple question NASA asked decades ago. 

What position does the human body naturally move into when gravity pulls less on it?

During spaceflight studies, NASA found that astronauts drift into the same relaxed shape every time. This became known as neutral body posture, or the zero gravity position.

What NASA Identified

When NASA made its observations2 on the positioning of astronauts at rest in space, they learned that in a zero gravity environment:

  1. Your torso settles at roughly a 128-degree angle relative to your legs.

  2. Pressure spreads evenly from shoulders through hips.

  3. Muscles stay active but more relaxed because they do less work to stabilize posture.

Zero gravity chairs recreate this shape so your body can experience a similar sense of relief and balanced support while reducing the effects of excess pressure on your spine that comes from traditional recliners.

Additional Info: What is zero gravity position? Learn more about it and its potential benefits next.

The Science and Numbers Behind Zero Gravity

While zero gravity sounds futuristic, the measurable effects are very down to earth. Studies continue to show how the position may provide positive benefits to your spine, circulation, and stress levels.

1. Disc Pressure Reduced Up to 40%

A study in Spine found that reclining to about 125 to 130 degrees reduced disc pressure by as much as 40% compared to sitting upright. In fully reclined positions with legs elevated above the heart, the hallmark of zero gravity positioning, pressure reduction can reach up to 50%3. That reduction in spinal compression is one of the primary potential benefits of using a zero gravity chair for back pain.

2. Improved Blood Flow Up to 45%

Elevating your legs above your heart makes it easier for blood to return to the upper body. Cardiovascular research shows that leg elevation may improve microcirculatory flow by up to 45% and double the rate of venous flow to reduce swelling in people who stand or sit for long periods4.

3. Reduced Muscle Tension By Nearly 27%

A 2021 study on biomechanics indicated that reclining significantly reduces muscle tension by nearly 27% by better distributing weight5. Zero gravity chairs are designed to distribute your body weight evenly, contributing to the potential for noticeable muscle tension relief. Less strain can lead to more comfort, especially during longer rest sessions.

4. Statistically Significant Increase in Relaxation

A 2023 study reported statistically significant physiological and psychological effects on healthy adults spending time in a relaxation chair6. Results showed that immunoglobulin A, an indicator of anti-stress activity, increased significantly after sitting on the relaxation chair as compared to the normal chair used as a control.

You may have a similar experience when using the chair during your daily relaxation routine.

Current Usage Stats and Buying Trends for Zero Gravity Chairs

You may not have used one before, but once you try a zero gravity chair for yourself, it’ll quickly become part of your daily comfort routine. Don’t just take our word for it, consumer data shows steady growth across the zero gravity recliner category.

  • The global zero gravity chair market reached upwards of 2.4 billion dollars in 20244 and is projected to top 6 billion dollars by 2030 based on wellness spending and ergonomic demand7.

  • In a 2024 Furniture Today survey, 38% of recliner shoppers said they now prefer ergonomic reclining chairs like zero gravity styles. That number was only 24% in 20208.

  • Google Trends reports a 250% increase in zero gravity chair searches from 2019 to 2024, showing a big shift in awareness for these types of chairs9.

  • A Sparks Research wellness study found that 52% of zero gravity buyers purchased for back pain relief and 34% for everyday comfort10.

What Real Zero Gravity Chair Users Say They Want

If you take a look at zero gravity chair reviews, you’ll see customers overwhelmingly enjoy them. From the Svago Lite 2 through the Motion Mastery zero gravity lounge chair, options for indoor models come with plenty of features.

Some of the reasons consumers are choosing zero gravity chairs include wanting:

  • Comfortable daily recovery after long workdays

  • Relief from lingering stiffness or tension

  • A chair they can use beyond watching TV

  • A relaxation tool that fits into a wellness routine

A zero gravity recliner is both a furniture piece and a wellness investment, making it the perfect long-term addition to any home. It’s important to consider zero gravity chair pros and cons before you make your selection.

The Numbers Show the Benefits of Zero Gravity

The numbers are in and people love zero gravity chairs. It’s impossible to overlook their many potential benefits and why they make a better choice than traditional recliners. 

Whether you’re just starting your research or actively looking for your next addition, take these facts into consideration and see which model is right for you.

FAQs on Zero Gravity Chair Research and Benefits

What is the purpose of a zero gravity chair?

A zero gravity chair is designed to place your body in a position that reduces pressure on your spine and distributes weight more evenly. This posture is based on NASA’s neutral body posture research, which helps support comfort, circulation, and relaxation.

Are zero gravity chairs good for back pain?

Research shows that reclining at about 125 to 130 degrees may reduce spinal disc pressure by up to 40%, which may help people who experience stiffness or lower back discomfort. Using a zero gravity chair daily may contribute towards acute and long-term back pain relief.

Can a zero gravity chair help with circulation?

The zero gravity position elevates your legs above the heart level, which promotes venous return. Studies show this may improve circulation and reduce swelling in the lower legs. 

How many people use zero gravity chairs today?

Market reports show growing usage, with the category reaching nearly 7 billion dollars in global value in 2023 and expected to grow significantly by 2030.

Disclaimer: This content is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professional when considering implementing changes to your health or workout routines to ensure it's compatible with your needs.

Sources

  1. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/research/research-results/us-national-survey-identifies-associations-between-chronic-severe-back-pain-and-disability

  2. NASA Neutral Body Posture Study, NASA Johnson Space Center, 1978

  3. Wilke HJ et al. "Pressure in intervertebral discs." Spine, 2001 and Nachemson, Alfred.; Elfström, Gösta. Spine, 1970

  4. Elevate to Alleviate – Evidence Based Vascular Nursing Study. Nursing: Research and Reviews. 2022

  5. Kett, Alexander R., Freddy Sichting, and Thomas L. Milani. 2021. "The Effect of Sitting Posture and Postural Activity on Low Back Muscle Stiffness" Biomechanics 1, no. 2: 214-224. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics1020018

  6. Takahiro KAKEDA, Effects of a Relaxation Chair for Stress Relief in Healthy Adults: A Randomized Study, International Journal of Affective Engineering, 2023, Volume 22, Issue 1, Pages 47-52

  7. https://www.strategicrevenueinsights.com/industry/zero-gravity-massage-chair-market

  8. Furniture Today Recliner Preference Survey, 2024

  9. Google Trends Zero Gravity Chair Search Data, 2019 to 2024

  10. Sparks Research Wellness Consumer Insights Report, 2023

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