Over the past years, red light therapy has emerged as one of the hottest topics in the field of wellness, and Planet Fitness has not been left behind. Being a company that provides cheap gym memberships and convenient fitness services, Planet Fitness has introduced red light therapy to its high-end membership benefits. What is this therapy, however, and how does it work, and why are so many of the gym-goers raving about it? We should take a more detailed look at what exactly Planet Fitness red light therapy consists of and whether it is worth trying.
What Red Light Therapy Is (And Is Not)
Photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, which is also referred to as red light therapy, is a form of treatment that exposes your skin to low wavelengths of red light. Red light can penetrate deep through the layers of the skin, unlike UV light, which damages the skin cells, and this activates the cellular functions, thereby supporting the processes of natural healing. This light assists in the amplification of the mitochondrial activity. To put it simply, it provides additional energy to your cells to renew, repair, and work effectively. Red light therapy, which was initially used in the clinical and medical field to aid wound healing and tissue repair, has now been integrated into the wellness and fitness industry as a mainstream recovery and beauty item.
Planet Fitness Implementation of Red Light Therapy
Planet Fitness has red light therapy that is provided in a machine called the Total Body Enhancement Booth. Coupled with the red light exposure and whole-body vibration technology, this futuristic appearance of the booth is found in most Planet Fitness locations as the Black Card Membership. The user is placed in the booth, and the red lights are placed so that the body is illuminated. The platform where feet are placed gives a slight vibration to stimulate the muscles. The whole session normally takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Red light and vibration are meant to increase circulation, loosen muscles and provide a gentle toning and refreshing effect to the users without the physical effort of traditional forms of exercising the body to recover.
The Benefits Claimed: What users get
Members of Planet Fitness who have gone through the red light therapy booth report many benefits other than just muscle recovery. Most users report that having regular sessions helps them to have smoother, firmer skin, a better mood, and they feel relaxed in general. Physiologically, the red light treatment can be used to alleviate inflammation and enhance the flow of blood, which are highly relevant in muscle recovery following vigorous exercise. Furthermore, increased circulation helps with the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which may accelerate recovery and decrease soreness. Others also attest to positive results in their sleeping and energy, which is probably because the therapy can control the processes in the cell and can alleviate stress.
The Science: What the Science Says about Red Light Therapy
Although the red light therapy has raised much excitement, it is essential to examine the science behind the practice. The research indicates that the red light of wavelengths, especially the ones with wavelengths of 630 to 660 nanometers, can affect cellular metabolism by increasing ATP, which is the primary energy source of cells. Through this process, the tissues heal more quickly, and oxidative stress, which leads to ageing and inflammation, is reduced. There has been a good response to clinical trials in skin rejuvenation, wound healing and even in enhancing muscle performance. Nevertheless, the results also differ depending on the wavelength, time of exposure, and the biology of a particular person, according to researchers. When dealing with Planet Fitness, given that the therapy is included in a wellness experience instead of a medical intervention, the outcomes will probably be more gradual and indirect instead of immediate and pronounced.
The Skin and Beauty Health Telescopes of Red Light Therapy
The fact that it may have a positive effect on the state of the skin is one of the most attractive features of Planet Fitness red light therapy. Since the red light enhances the production of collagen, most users appear to have a tangible difference in their skin tone and texture after regular use. Collagen plays a vital role in ensuring elasticity and firmness, and in old age, its natural synthesis reduces. Constant exposure to red light can be used to reverse this ageing and produce a more smooth and younger-looking skin. Others also testify that red light therapy reduces acne and scars by enhancing the rate at which the skin cells are regenerated. Although it will not happen immediately and will need regular sessions, all these effects add to the general glow that users tend to attribute.
Muscle Recovery and Performance Enhancement
The red light therapy booths especially appeal to athletes and most often frequent gym-goers, due to the possible benefits they have in terms of recovery. Working out causes small tears in the muscle fibres, which need to be repaired to become stronger, a process that is hectic and time-consuming. Red light therapy could help speed up this healing process by enhancing blood circulation and decreasing inflammation so that athletes can train more regularly with less rest. Together with the vibration plate technology in the Planet Fitness booth, it is possible that the user will feel slight muscle stimulation, which increases flexibility and loosens tight muscles. This does not eliminate the practice of stretching or massage therapy, but it is a good addition to a balanced recovery regimen.
Psychological and Emotional Effects
In addition to the physical advantages, red light therapy has been associated with mood elevation and stress elimination. Red light may affect the circadian rhythm in the body and stimulate the secretion of serotonin, also known as the happy hormone. Some users complain that the experience is relaxing and meditative. Taking a few minutes in warm red lighting may be a mental recharge, particularly following a demanding exercise. The soft vibration also brings in an element of relaxation, which assists the users in walking out of the gym more relaxed and refreshed. Although these are subjective effects, they add to the general feeling of well-being that Planet Fitness wants to bring to its members.
Caution, Occurrence, and Hints
The use of Planet Fitness red light therapy is found to be safe for the majority of the population since the wavelengths of light used are non-invasive and do not contain any harmful UV radiation. Nevertheless, consistency is important in getting results. The majority of the experts suggest that the red light therapy should be done three to four times a week, particularly during initiation. The length of each session must be about 10-15 minutes, depending on the comfort and schedule. It is recommended that users take off all makeup and sunscreen before entering the booth so as to get the highest amount of light possible. Also, it would be prudent to keep the body hydrated both before and after the sessions since better circulation and cell activity may require more fluids. Before starting the use of sunscreens, people with medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional, especially those who are photosensitive or have skin disorders.
Will Planet Fitness Red Light Therapy Pay Off?
The question of whether red light therapy at Planet Fitness is worth it is based on the expectation and fitness targets. The Total Body Enhancement booth can be an excellent complement to an exercise routine for people who want to improve overall health, have better skin, and positively affect their recovery. It provides a stress-free and easy way to enjoy time and enjoy physical and mental health conditions included in the price of a Black Card membership. But it is not a magic panacea. The effects cumulate over time due to frequent use, and the outcomes depend on the individual. Consider it an adjunct to wellness as opposed to a treatment in its own right.
Conclusions: A Current Wellness Trend that is Here to Stay
Planet Fitness red light therapy is the emerging combination of exercise and total wellness. This technology offers a convenient alternative, which can easily be integrated into the everyday activities of a gym-going population in a world that is seeking safe and non-invasive means of recovery, rejuvenation, and relaxation. As the science is still developing, preliminary data and user feedback point to the fact that red light therapy is indeed capable of aiding in the enhancement of skin, muscle recovery, and mood. To anyone ready to make an effort and visit the club regularly, entering the red glow could be the next little but significant step to a healthier lifestyle.
