A Guide to Selecting the Best Chi Machine 

best chi machines

December 23, 2018

Have you ever awoken one day and thought, ugh! everything in my body seems off? My joints hurt, my muscles ache, my back and neck are stiff, I have no energy…the list goes on! Have no fear, there are options for helping your whole body heal and achieve a natural balance.

Sometimes we have to call the doctor and are prescribed medicines, treatments, or even surgery depending on the severity of the condition. But not all bodily ailments are the same, and for you, trying other more holistic & natural approaches might be the best option.

And now you’re asking, what exactly is it that’s off in my body? And how can it be corrected without medicine & surgery? Below we discuss a unique option: It has been acknowledged for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese philosophy. It’s known as Chi.

Chi

Chi, (pronounced Chee), is known as life force energy:

  • It is present in all living things in the universe
  • Everything is comprised of electromagnetic energy which pulses, or vibrates, at different frequencies
  • These various frequencies correlate to things such as sounds, colors & light

When your life force is misaligned, your whole body responds with pain, fatigue, lack of sleep, and overall sense of being unwell. 

chi energy

Part of traditional Chinese philosophy and medicine focuses on harnessing, embracing, & aligning chi in the body. The basic principle is that if your chi is unbalanced, it will negatively affect your physical, mental, and emotional well being.  So how do you align or realign your chi?

Much of western medicine focuses on manufactured drugs to supplement or substitute for what the body is missing. And while that may help under certain conditions, there are other options that have a more holistic and natural way of positively affecting your body. There are a number of different alternative medical techniques that have been used to help maintain or regain your balanced chi, including:

  • Chiropractic care
  • Massage
  • Acupuncture
  • Acupressure
  • Yoga
  • Martial arts
  • Reiki

Chi Machine Benefits

As with other medical/health machines, there are many beneficial aspects to using a chi machine. 

Perhaps one of the best things about using a chi machine is that it provides a multitude of health benefits, with little to no effort on your part: 

  • Passive aerobic exerciser
  • Relieves chronic back pain & muscle tension
  • Increases oxygen flow to your whole body
  • Strengthens your immune system
  • Chi machine helps to improve digestion
  • Improves lymphatic circulation
  • Reduces fatigue and improves sleep

So, let’s take a look at some of the chi machine reviews!

Our Top Picks

There is only one original Sun Ancon Chi Machine, but there are others of similar design that provide the same benefits with a slightly lower price. This means there are multiple options to fit anyone’s budget. Some of the less expensive products might not function quite as well as the premium ones. 

If you do pick the high end products the benefits are well worth the investment.

1. Chi Vitalizer Machine USJ-106


One of the best chi machines on the market is the Chi Vitalizer Machine USJ-106 manufactured by U.S. Jaclean. Unlike the original machine by Sun Ancon, the Chi Vitalizer has more than one speed control setting, which allows for a more personalized treatment. Because of the variable speeds, you can customize your usage and modify both speed & time as needed. Monitor your speed and time with your progress and slowly increase both until you find the best comfort level for yourself.

As with other chi machines, using the Chi Vitalizer on a daily basis provides many helpful benefits, such as:

  • Spinal realignment
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Increased blood flow and circulation
  • Improved sleep
  • Increased energy

Key Specs:

  • 40W motor power
  • Power supply: AC 120V-60Hz
  • Dimensions: 16”x11”x15”
  • Weight: 15lb
  • Timer: 15 minutes
  • Variable speeds
  • Padded foot cradle

PROS:

  • Less expensive than original Chi Machine by Sun Ancon
  • Multiple speed settings
  • Non weight-bearing exercise
  • Simple set up and easy to use

CONS:

  • Occasional plastic smell
  • May cause sore/bruised ankles from cradle
  • Periodic changing of speed without manually adjusting

2. Daiwa Felicity Original Deluxe Chi Swing Machine


Another top selling chi swing is the Daiwa Felicity Deluxe Chi Swing Machine. This machine is, in fact, the same machine as the Chi Vitalizer, but is sold by Daiwa. Because it is sold by a different vendor, the price is slightly lower than the one sold by U.S. Jaclean.  

As marketed, the Daiwa Deluxe Chi Machine creates a wave-like motion that moves up the legs and spine, which provides a source of passive  exercise. This in turn will help to realign the spine, relax muscles, reduce stress, increase energy levels, and improve sleep. 

Key Specs:

  • 40W motor power
  • Power supply: AC 120V-60Hz
  • Dimensions: 16”x11”x15”
  • Weight: 15lb
  • Timer: 15 minutes
  • Variable speed
  • Padded foot cradle

PROS:

  • Less expensive than original Sun Ancon Chi Machine
  • Less expensive than the Chi Vitalizer
  • Different speed settings
  • Non weight-bearing exercise
  • Simple set up and easy to use

CONS:

  • Occasional plastic smell
  • Ankle padding may cause sore/bruised ankles
  • Periodic changing of speed without manually adjusting

3. Daiwa Felicity Original Chi Swing Master


The next model down on the U.S. Jaclean and Daiwa product line is the Daiwa Felicity Original Chi Swing Master. As with the other chi machines, this product will help correct spinal alignment, improve energy, and help restore chi throughout the body. When used on a daily basis, you will find your chi is consistently restored & balanced. 

Key Specs:

  • 15W motor power
  • Power supply: AC 120V-60Hz
  • Dimensions: 9”x8”x11.5”
  • Weight: 9 lb
  • Timer: 15 minutes
  • Variable speed
  • Padded vinyl foot cradle

PROS:

  • Less expensive than Sun Ancon and Chi Vitalizer
  • Same health benefits as other machines
  • Lighter weight
  • Easy to carry and use

CONS:

  • Not as high quality as the more expensive machines
  • Lacking in motor power
  • Occasional plastic/vinyl smell
  • May cause sore/bruised ankles due to thin padding

4. The Original Sun Ancon Chi Machine


The top rated chi machine is the Original Chi Machine by Sun Ancon. As this was the device created by Dr. Inoue, it is set up to give you the best possible results. The machine is set with only one speed, at 140-145 oscillations per minute, which is the precise calculation that Dr. Inoue found provides the best spinal and chi alignment.

This machine can be used by anyone, from 4 to 100 years old! Depending on the age of the person and their physical condition, the amount of treatment time should be adjusted. It is suggested that you begin with 1-2 minutes, especially for the young and elderly, slowly increasing the time to longer sessions, the maximum being 15 minutes. If you experience any discomfort, simply use it for shorter times.

Using a chi machine on a daily basis will continue to improve your overall health by maintaining your balanced chi!

Key Specs:

  • Power supply: 110V or 220V
  • Dimensions: 10.5”x13.5”x8.25”
  • Weight: 15.5 lb

PROS:

  • Precisely tuned for optimum results
  • Acclaimed world wide
  • Helps restore and balance your chi
  • Simple set up and easy to use

CONS:

  • Higher price
  • Only one speed
  • No padded foot cradle
  • May cause sore/bruised ankles from cradle if not aligned properly

5. Sunpentown Health Swing Machine


Rounding out our list of highly ranked chi machines is the Sunpentown Healthy Swing Machine. This chi machine is the lowest priced on the list, but still does well in terms of benefits with up to 175 rotations per minute.

This machine also comes with a swivel disc for the lower back to help increase the flow of energy and chi, as the machine moves in the Goldfish motion.

Key Specs:

  • 14 different speed control adjustments
  • 95-175 rotations per minute
  • Dimensions: 15” x 11” x 15”
  • Weight: 12.5lb
  • Padded vinyl foot cradle
  • Swivel disc for lower back

PROS:

  • Less expensive than other chi machines
  • User friendly with 1-touch buttons
  • Timer programmable at 5 minute intervals, up to 30 minutes
  • Easy to carry and handle

CONS:

  • Small ankle cradle limits size of leg placement
  • Less expensive parts more prone to failure after repeated usage
  • May cause sore/bruised ankles and legs due to smaller size
  • Swivel disc might not work based on weight

6. Exerciser Elite Circulation Machine


The Exerciser Elite has an original design that doesn’t imitate other brands. The integrated electronic systems and the cushioning ankle pads are designed by Clifford Park which is a company that specializes in high-end home therapy equipment.

Exerciser Elite’s circulation machine is built to last. It’s also a lightweight compact device that can be transported and stored easily. The wide cushioning ankle rests are soft so they won’t chafe your skin or cause any discomfort during therapy. The ankle rest can also support a maximum weight of 450lb.

Another advantage of the Exerciser Elite is that it doesn’t require regular maintenance. Operating the machine is effortless. Simply plug in the machine, place your ankles on the cushions and select between five different settings to start your therapy. 

Key Specs:

  • 110V DC motor
  • Five-speed operations
  • 16-minute timer
  • Auto shut off feature
  • Ranges between 120 and 160 swings per minute

PROS:

  • FDA 1 approved
  • ETL approved
  • Lightweight device
  • Comfortable ankle rests

CONS:

  • The movements are not gentle
  • Product can’t be returned if faulty

7. Kitzen Mini Smart Swing Machine


The Kitzen mini smart swing chi machine has a compact design that’s lightweight and easy to operate. The ankle pads are soft so they won’t cause any discomfort during your therapy. This device comes with a remote control so you can make changes to your therapy without moving.

Select between a red or blue design of the Kitzen mini chi machine. Regardless of the color you pick, the Kitzen still offers the same beneficial results. It has two different kinds of therapy: infrared and magnetic. The infrared therapy warms up your muscles to soothe the pain. Magnetic therapy increases blood circulation and minimizes stiffness in the joints & muscles.

There’s a vibration pad on the Kitzen mini chi machine that reduces headaches, backache and it stops your feet from cramping. You can use your remote control to adjust the intensity of the vibrations, heat and magnetic therapy. 

Key Specs:

  • 35W foot massager 
  • Change between speeds of 1 to 10
  • Massages feet and legs
  • Has 80 to 190-minute swing frequency

PROS:

  • Has a timer
  • Provides comfortable support for your ankles
  • Settings are easy to adjust
  • Lightweight
  • Increases blood circulation
  • Relieves pain

CONS:

  • Lacks motor power
  • The remote control is often faulty

All About Chi Machines

How the Chi Machine Got Started

The Original Sun Ancon Chi Machine was created and designed by Japanese scientist Dr. Inoue in 1990. He based the motion of the exercise machine on the ancient Japanese exercise Kinyo Undo, also known as the Goldfish exercise.

By simply laying on a flat surface, such as the floor or a firm bed, you slowly stretch and relax. Then you begin quickly wiggling your body in a wave-like motion starting with the feet, much as a fish would do while swimming. This unique but simple exercise uses the body’s own movement to improve blood circulation, which in turn helps the body’s nervous system align itself. As the body adjusts, the flow of chi increases and balance is achieved.

Goldfish Exercise

But what Dr. Inoue realized was that not everyone was, or is, able to lay on the ground due to physical limitations, age, or infirmity. He wondered if there was a way that everyone could benefit from the healing properties of this type of exercise, no matter what their physical status. And thus the Chi Machine was born.

The workings of a chi machine are really quite simple. By resting on the floor or a firm surface, you simply lay back, slip your feet/ankles into the cradle, and let the machine swing your body with its swaying wave motion. This provides you with a full aerobic exercise without taxing the body, which means that virtually anyone can use it!

How to Use a Chi Machine

Some of the basics on using the Chi Machine:

  • Simply lie down, set a timer for 4-6 minutes and let the Chi Machine do the work for you
  • Start with 1-2 minutes for the elderly or children; 4-6 minutes for everyone else
  • Work up to 15-20 minutes maximum, 1-3 times per day
  • If you experience any discomfort, simply decrease the amount of time
Daiwa Felicity Original Chi Swing Machine Deluxe Passive Aerobic Exerciser Circulation Qi Machine Vitality Swing Comfortable Ankle Padded

Used by hospitals and clinics around the world

Multiple hospitals and clinics around the world rate the chi machine as an excellent piece of technology that aids with clinical, medical, and health recovery. The exceptional results that the natural rhythm the machine provides has been attested to by multiple medical personnel, including:

  • Doctors & nurses
  • Masseuses
  • Chiropractors
  • Physical & Mental health therapists

Other equipment and products that can provide drug-free pain relief:

Chi Machines: These innovative machines use simple swinging motions of the feet and lower legs to realign the spine and re-balance your body & chi. We hope that our chi machine reviews convinced you to get one.

Circulation BoostersCirculation machines are available for both feet and legs, stimulating your blood circulation by vibration and/or massaging pulses, by releasing tension of specific pressure points. This causes the muscles to contact and relax, restoring blood circulation throughout your body.

Cervical Traction Devices: These devices come in various forms. They all help by stretching the neck, relaxing the muscles, as well as realigning your cervical vertebrae by taking pressure off of pinched nerves and blood vessels. 

Inversion Tables: Inversion tables are another form of stretching, realigning, and relaxation. They work on the principle of getting more blood flow to your brain, thus rejuvenating and restoring circulation throughout your body.

TENS Units: TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units are a form of non-invasive electrical stimulation which delivers low-voltage pulses to the skin, stimulating your nerve fibers. This process helps to block the pain from the nerves, allowing your muscles to relax, and your body to naturally balance.

FAQ:

Can a Chi Machine Help You Lose Weight?

Though the machine wasn’t originally designed or marketed as a weight loss exercise machine, many people have found this to be an added benefit as documented in a number of Australian clinical trials

As the machine swings the body, the physical motion releases energy which increases circulation, promoting oxygenation of the blood. Since this motion is a form of physical activity, your body weight may decrease and you may also experience toning and firming of your muscles, including your waist, thighs, hips & abs. This is however not the most affective weight loss exercise machine.

How Will a Chi Machine Help Your Back?

When your spine is misaligned, every vital organ in your body suffers due to the imbalance in your nervous system. This can lead to all kinds of unpleasant issues such as:

  • Sore bones, joints & muscles 
  • Inflammation
  • Nerve pain
  • Digestive tract issues 
  • Migraines
  • Bone spurs 

The swaying motion of a chi machine actually helps to realign your spine by relaxing the muscles all along your back. As your body is gently stimulated, your nervous system responds and naturally starts healing itself, and balancing your chi. With corrected spinal alignment, you will have decreased neck & back pain, increased energy, with overall improvement both physically & mentally.

Are There Benefits of Using a Chi Machine for Women Post Pregnancy?

If you’re a new mother, you’re probably aware that your post pregnancy body develops aches and pains associated with child birth. During a typical delivery process, your spine is taxed, muscles are used in ways they aren’t used to, blood flow is altered and energy is severely depleted. 

Ask anyone who’s had a baby and they’ll tell you what they really want and need is deep sleep and a nice massage! By using a chi machine on a regular basis, the passive aerobic exercise may help relieve & relax muscle pain while your body returns to a normal balance.

Is a Chi Machine Safe for Children?

Absolutely! As children are always on the go, growing, and changing, their spines get extra usage. Studies have shown that kids greatly benefit from chi balancing practices as well. By using the chi machine for 4-6 minutes, a child’s body can be relaxed, calmed, and more focused. And unlike the use of medications or invasive procedures, a chi machine provides a natural balance to a child’s ever changing body.

Chi Machine Side Effects & Potential Dangers?

One of the questions you should always ask when dealing with medical treatments and devices is whether there areany negative side effects. The chi machine is known for being a non-invasive, non-impact form of passive exercise. It also provides benefits of massage, spinal realignment and increased energy.  

The most common negative side effect is soreness around the ankles where the body touches the machine. Occasionally it has also been reported to cause more pain in the lower back. However this can be corrected by using the machine correctly, at the right frequency and for the right amount of time. 

How often can you use a chi machine?

You can use a chi machine every day. It’s recommended that you have a one to two-minute session on your chi machine daily if you’re a beginner user. You can increase the time in two-minute increments when your body has adjusted to the movements of your device. Most people who take part in intense cardio or sports have daily 16-minute sessions on a chi machine.

Some people may split their time into two sessions per day: Once in the morning and at night. But you can utilize your chi machine whenever you’re feeling discomfort in your joints and muscles. 

Comparing the Chi Vitalizer and the Swing Master

One of the biggest differences between the Chi Vitalizer/Deluxe machine and the Swing Master, other than the price, lies primarily in the power unit. The Vitalizer has a 40W motor while the Master motor tops at 15W.

The stronger the motor, the more consistent power will be transferred to the foot cradle. And the durability of the larger motor is usually greater than the smaller powered motor. But the overall benefits compared to the price make the Swing Chi Master machine definitely one to keep in mind.

Let’s Summarize:

For centuries, the life force energy known as chi has been a vital component in traditional Chinese medical treatment. No matter your challenge, a Chi machine could be what you’ve been looking for: 

  • Sick with the flu
  • General aches & pains
  • Neck & back pain
  • Lack of energy
  • Poor sleep patterns

Everyone can benefit from a healthy balance to their life. Through the use of various techniques and technologies, your body & your chi can be realigned and now you know how to make it work for you.

In our opinion the top ranked chi machine is the Original Sun Ancon Chi Machine because of the specific & targeted oscillation speed for optimum results. It’s the highest priced but for guaranteed top results it’s worth it. 

Next on the list are the Chi Vitalizer Machine and the Daiwa Felicity Deluxe Chi Machine. These two best chi machines are exactly the same, just sold by different vendors at slightly different prices. The Chi Vitalizer is slightly higher priced than the Daiwa Deluxe machine, but since the features are the same, it comes down to which seller and warranty works best for you.

Using a chi machine to help realign your spine may allow your whole body and chi to balance. And thankfully there are multiple products at varying prices, so you can find the right machine for your budget.

Is budget your biggest concern? To get the most bang for your buck, the Chi Vitalizer/Daiwa Deluxe is the way to go. You’ll enjoy all of the great benefits of a high quality chi machine that is friendlier on your wallet.

Just remember that what’s good for your budget might not always be best for actual machine function, quality, and results. Do you research and read our chi machine reviews so you buy the best option the first time and don’t have to waste money on a second purchase later on. 

No matter what you decide to go with, here’s to a happier, healthier chi-balanced you!

Disclaimer: None of the information or reviews in this article is intended as individual medical advice and has not been reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration. As always, contact your doctor if you have any medical issues or symptoms before using a chi machine or other medical equipment.

About the author 

Kevin Lee

Health and fitness have always been a passion for me; whether its being in the weight room, going for a run before work or even participating in a half iron man triathlon. ShapeJunkie was created to share to knowledge and love of fitness with others.

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