What Is a Zero Gravity Bed?

You might have heard the term before, but what does “zero gravity” mean? It is not actually the absence of gravity, of course, but it is a reclined position that feels like it to your body. So what does that mean for sleep quality? This unique position gives zero gravity beds many health and wellness advantages over traditional beds, including musculoskeletal, breathing, and even digestive benefits.

As a leader in orthopedic sleep solutions and adjustable beds for over two decades, AirPedic™ understands the relationship between overall sleep quality and sleep position, including zero gravity. This detailed look at zero gravity beds, how they function, and the specific wellness benefits they can offer will help you determine if a zero gravity bed is the right choice for you to experience a new level of restful, restorative sleep.

What Is a Zero Gravity Bed?

When the concept of zero gravity came about, it had nothing to do with sleep. Instead, zero gravity is the name of the reclining position developed by NASA to optimize the comfort of astronauts during space travel. The goal was to find a position that evenly distributed pressure and reduced strain on the spine and heart, especially during launch.

Research determined that simultaneously raising the upper body to a 120-degree angle and the legs to 45 degrees with the knees bent—so that both head and knees are above the heart—was most advantageous for health and comfort. Understandably, the positive effects of this position in space made it appealing for applications on solid ground as well, and so the zero gravity bed was born.

A zero gravity bed is an advanced sleep system designed to replicate this weightless position. Unlike traditional beds, zero gravity beds use adjustable bases to elevate the head and legs at specific angles to create a sensation of floating. These beds are different from standard flat beds because they allow users to customize their sleeping positions according to their needs.

How Zero Gravity Beds Function

Zero gravity beds are an adjustable bed frame that raises different sections of the mattress to achieve an optimal ergonomic position. The mechanized base can be raised and lowered at the head and feet to enhance comfort and reduce pressure at various points in the body and spine.

The mechanized base is controlled via a remote or smartphone app, allowing sleepers to make incremental adjustments for comfort. Many zero gravity beds also include programmable presets so that users can save their favorite sleep positions, eliminating the need for nightly readjustments.

Modern versions offer premium features such as:

• Under-bed lighting for ambient illumination
• Wireless remote controls for easy adjustment
• Memory presets for favorite positions
• Massage settings for therapeutic relief
• Smart sensors and sleep tracking capabilities
• Zero gravity and anti-snore presets

Additionally, pairing a zero gravity base with an adjustable firmness mattress can provide an even greater level of customization. Adjustable firmness mattresses allow each sleeper to adjust firmness independently, making them ideal for couples with different sleep preferences. Some high-end models even feature smart technology that detects body position and automatically adjusts support levels throughout the night.

Benefits of a Zero Gravity Bed

It is clear to see how a zero gravity bed can be more comfortable than a traditional mattress. However, the benefits go well beyond comfort. In fact, zero gravity beds offer many physical health benefits as well:

1. Reduced Back and Joint Pain

By distributing weight more evenly and effectively reducing the pressure on the spine, an adjustable zero gravity bed can help alleviate back and neck pain and associated muscle stiffness. This makes adjustable beds a great choice for individuals suffering from chronic pain, arthritis, or sciatica. The zero gravity position ensures that joints and pressure points like hips and shoulders are not subjected to excess or prolonged pressure, promoting rest and recovery after exercise.

2. Improved Circulation

Because it keeps the head and feet above the heart, a zero gravity bed has been shown to promote improved circulation, including to the extremities, helping to deliver oxygen throughout the body more efficiently. Enhanced circulation also contributes to better oxygen delivery throughout the body, which can improve overall energy levels and promote faster muscle recovery.

3. Reduced Swelling in Feet and Legs

Improved circulation reduces swelling, especially in hands and feet, and lowers the chance of blood clots. This can be highly beneficial to sleepers with diabetes, varicose veins, edema, and heart conditions.

4. Better Breathing and Reduced Snoring

The angle of the zero gravity bed helps keep the airways open, easing sinus congestion and keeping the tongue from blocking the back of the throat. This, in turn, reduces snoring and alleviates sleep apnea symptoms. Since about half of people experience snoring during their lifetimes, a zero gravity bed is a boon to snorers and their partners. This can be especially helpful for individuals with sleep apnea, asthma, or seasonal allergies.

5. Better Digestion

Lying flat works against natural digestive forces, which are supported by gravity’s downward pull. Conversely, raising the upper body works with natural digestive forces, encouraging normal flow even at rest and helping to reduce heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. Elevating the upper body while sleeping helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back up the esophagus, reducing discomfort and improving overall digestion.

6. Enhanced Sleep Quality

Many sleep disturbances are caused by discomfort, poor spinal alignment, or restricted breathing. Zero gravity beds address these issues by creating a more supportive sleep environment. The ability to adjust sleep positions minimizes tossing and turning, leading to deeper, more restful sleep cycles. Good quality sleep is essential to general health and well-being. Without sufficient restful sleep, our bodies are less able to recover from daily activity and stress or to repair themselves when injured or sick. By promoting better sleep, a zero gravity bed becomes an investment in overall wellness.

Practical Considerations for Choosing a Zero Gravity Bed

Now that you understand why a zero gravity bed might be the perfect sleep solution for you, consider these other factors when making your purchase decision.

Budget and Price Range

With a price range from $300 to $10,000 and more, a zero gravity bed can be an investment, involving an adjustable bed base and a compatible mattress. The price variation is based on factors such as:

Basic Models ($300 – $1,000): Offer simple head and leg adjustments but may lack advanced features like memory presets or massage functions.

Mid-Range Models ($1,000 – $3,000): Include additional comfort features such as anti-snore settings, wireless remote controls, and improved adjustability.

Luxury Models ($3,000 – $10,000+): Feature massage settings, under-bed lighting, smart home integration, and high-quality materials for enhanced durability.

Upgraded features such as massage settings, memory functions, and lighting can significantly affect price. Of course, mattress size also impacts price, with prices increasing with bed size and king-sized mattresses requiring two adjustable bed bases. If budget is a concern, many retailers offer financing options, allowing buyers to invest in better sleep without a large upfront cost.

Mattress Compatibility

Traditional innerspring mattresses may not conform to an adjustable bed’s movements and are often too rigid to conform properly to an adjustable base. As such, mattress types that offer both flexibility and durability are ideal for adjustable bed bases. The best options include:

Memory Foam Mattresses: Highly flexible and contouring, allowing them to adjust seamlessly with the base’s movements.

Latex Mattresses: Naturally responsive and durable, making them a great choice for flexibility and longevity.

Hybrid Mattresses: Combine foam and coils for balanced support and adaptability, flexing with changing bed positions while maintaining their performance over time.

Additional Features to Consider

Dual Adjustability: Ideal for couples, allowing each person to control their side of the bed independently.

Massage Functions: Provide therapeutic relief for sore muscles and stress.

Under-Bed Lighting: Offers ambient illumination without disturbing sleep.

Smart Sensors & Sleep Tracking: Some models come equipped with sensors that monitor sleep patterns and make automatic adjustments for optimal support.

Zero Gravity and Anti-Snore Presets: Quickly switch to pre-programmed positions for enhanced comfort and wellness.

Brand Quality

As a place where we spend so much of our time, choosing the right bed is a significant decision. Ensuring your bed comes from a reputable manufacturer is critical, even more so with the added mechanical component of an adjustable bed base. A lengthy warranty, generous trial period, and excellent customer reviews can provide much-needed peace of mind when making your choice, as can experience, reputation, and customer service.

Is a Zero Gravity Bed Right for You?

As you can see, the customized positioning offered by a zero gravity bed has many benefits for sleep and overall wellness. By keeping the head and knees elevated over the heart and reducing pressure on the spine and joints, zero gravity beds can provide musculoskeletal relief and promote better breathing, circulation, and digestion. All of this adds up to the better quality sleep you’re looking for, especially when choosing the zero gravity bed that is right for your needs and preferences from the right manufacturer.

Zero gravity beds are a revolutionary sleep solution that provides both comfort and significant health benefits. By reducing spinal pressure, improving circulation, and offering the ability for a customizable sleeping position, these beds are ideal for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality and overall well-being. With various models available, selecting the right one requires evaluating individual sleep needs and lifestyle preferences.

Experience Zero Gravity with AirPedic™

A comprehensive AirPedic™ sleep solution provides the benefits of zero gravity positioning along with the personalized comfort and orthopedic superiority of an adjustable air mattress. Our adjustable bases offer presets for zero gravity and snore-reduction positions, wireless controls, and premium upgrades to fit your needs. When topped with one of our high-quality latex, memory foam, or hybrid mattresses featuring our patented 6-zone multi-chamber technology for adjustable firmness at your fingertips, you will experience zero gravity – and restorative sleep – at another level altogether.

If you’re looking for a high-quality zero gravity bed that combines advanced sleep technology with exceptional support, AirPedic™ offers industry-leading solutions. With customizable firmness settings, orthopedic support, and premium adjustable bases, AirPedic™ ensures a sleep experience tailored to your unique needs. Explore the collection today to find the perfect zero gravity bed for your best night’s sleep.