The Gravity Balans is the original zero-gravity recliner — kneeling-to-reclined range of motion in one Peter Opsvik design. Norwegian heritage since the Balans line launched in 1979, with the Gravity itself in continuous production since its introduction. This page is for the buyer searching specifically for a zero-gravity recliner; the chair is the Gravity Balans and it sits in the Varier line alongside the kneeling chairs and the Ekstrem accent lounge. This page sits alongside the broader ergonomic kneeling chair hub.
What “zero-gravity recliner” actually means
The phrase points to a specific reclined position where the legs sit slightly higher than the heart, distributing body weight in a way that approximates the relaxed posture astronauts adopt under low gravitational load. The Gravity Balans achieves this through a sculptural kneel-to-recline arc — the chair starts in a kneeling-style forward posture and rocks back into a fully reclined zero-gravity position with the legs elevated.
The Varier zero-gravity recliner
- Gravity Balans — the canonical Varier zero-gravity recliner. Peter Opsvik design, kneeling-to-reclined range, made in Norway.
The Gravity does not have a sibling in the Varier line; it is a category of one within the Balans family. Visit the Gravity Balans page for current configurations and pricing.
Heritage and origin
Norwegian, Peter Opsvik design language. Continuous production. The Gravity is part of the same active-sitting hypothesis that produced the Variable Balans — the chair extends the principle from the desk into resting and reading positions.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Gravity Balans only a zero-gravity recliner?
It also functions in a kneeling-style forward posture. The full range of motion is kneel → seated → reclined → zero-gravity reclined.
Can I work at a desk on a Gravity?
Not really. The chair is too large and too reclined for desk use. Pair it with a Variable for the desk side.
What does zero gravity actually do for the body?
The leg-elevated position reduces sustained venous and lower-limb load and changes the spinal curve. Many users find it a useful recovery position; the chair does not make medical claims.
How big is the Gravity?
Larger than any kneeling chair in the line. Plan for the recliner depth when reclined.
Is it the only Varier reclining chair?
Yes. The Ekstrem is an accent lounge with its own design idiom; the Gravity is the recliner.
