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Discover how just 12 minutes of red light therapy can help sculpt your body
Planet Fitness offers a budget-friendly fitness experience, featuring a variety of unique amenities, including red light therapy. While you've probably seen this technology used in skin treatments, how does it fit into your fitness routine? In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Total Body Enhancement machines at Planet Fitness and how to make the most of them!
What benefits does red light therapy offer at Planet Fitness?
At Planet Fitness, red light therapy is integrated into their Total Body Enhancement machines. This 12-minute, non-invasive full-body treatment is designed to help accelerate recovery time. The TBE combines red light therapy with vibration plates, potentially boosting collagen production and improving circulation, which helps alleviate stress.
How to Use the Total Body Enhancement Machines
What is Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness?
Red light therapy may aid in reducing muscle recovery time. After an intense workout, muscle soreness is common. Planet Fitness’ Total Body Enhancement machines utilize red light therapy (RLT), which could help stimulate collagen production and improve blood circulation to alleviate muscle tension. Combined with the vibration plate, this therapy may reduce cell inflammation, making it easier to push through the next day's exercise session.
- Note: While advertised as infrared saunas, Planet Fitness' Total Body Enhancement (TBE) machines are not infrared saunas. Infrared saunas operate with light wavelengths of 1000nm or higher for deep tissue and heat therapy, whereas TBE machines use red wavelengths ranging from 620-700nm, typical for RLT.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light therapy might enhance cellular efficiency. Though research is ongoing, scientists believe red light therapy works by exposing the skin to wavelengths of red light (600nm or higher), which could increase energy in the mitochondria, the cell's powerhouse. This energy boost might make cells function more effectively, supporting skin rejuvenation and healing.
- Red light is thought to penetrate deeper into the skin compared to other LED lights.
- Unlike lasers, which can irritate the skin, red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment with less risk of skin damage.
- Note: While there's not enough conclusive evidence to fully support red light therapy as a treatment, some studies suggest it may help with conditions like acne, hair loss, and muscle soreness. More research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and long-term benefits.
Is Red Light Therapy Effective?
Regular use of red light therapy may prove beneficial. While research is ongoing to confirm its effectiveness, studies suggest that red light therapy could support skin recovery. Harvard Health notes that red LED light might aid in skin healing, while blue LED light could help address acne. However, much of the research conducted so far has been on small groups rather than large-scale studies.
Advantages of Red Light Therapy and Total Body Enhancement
Red light therapy may alleviate inflammation and muscle soreness. Planet Fitness' Total Body Enhancement machines are designed to offer relief after exercise. By using red light therapy (RLT), these machines may enhance cellular respiration and boost adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which could accelerate the body's repair processes. The vibration technology in the machines may also promote better blood circulation to the muscles, helping to reduce inflammation. Other potential benefits of Total Body Enhancement include:
- Increased energy before exercise
- Improved skin elasticity
- Reduced appearance of wrinkles, stretch marks, and cellulite
- Targets major muscle groups: legs, arms, abs, glutes
- Helps firm and tone the body
- Helps reduce stress
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Yes—when used as directed and for short-term recovery. Red light therapy is a non-invasive, non-toxic treatment that generally has no serious side effects. However, it’s essential to wear proper eye protection and ensure the light intensity isn’t too high. For example, using RLT daily with 1,000 nm of light could cause thermal damage to the skin. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommended usage and light settings.
- Avoid using RLT if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, have a condition that makes you sensitive to light, or are taking medications that increase light sensitivity.
- Red light therapy could potentially cause hyperpigmentation or melasma in individuals with darker skin tones. However, more research is needed to understand this side effect fully.
- If uncertain, consult a dermatologist before using red light therapy.
How to Experience Total Body Enhancement Therapy at Planet Fitness
Book your session at the front desk or through a self-service kiosk. To get started, head to the front desk at Planet Fitness to schedule your appointment. Some locations offer self-service kiosks where you can select available time slots. When it's time for your session, check in at the front desk to be assigned to your private room.
- If you use red light therapy before working out, it can help energize and prepare your body. Using it post-workout may enhance recovery time.
Undress to your comfort level and enter the machine. Lock the door behind you once inside your private room. The room is equipped with a Total Body Enhancement machine, a chair for your belongings, paper towels, and sanitizer. For the best results, it's recommended to expose as much skin as possible, though you can leave on your undergarments. All that’s required is to remove your shoes.
- Your session will start automatically in 1-2 minutes, so be sure to get ready and into the machine quickly.
- Make sure your skin is clean by removing any lotions, makeup, or other products before your session.
- Wearing sunglasses or other eyewear is optional but advised.
Choose one of the four vibration settings for a full-body, passive workout. The vibration platform beneath you sends vibrations that make your muscles involuntarily contract and relax, potentially aiding in their recovery. Select from one of four settings: Feel Great (low intensity), Toning (medium intensity), Cross-Training (high intensity), or Multi-Level (varied intensity).
- Vibration therapy may help improve muscle strength, flexibility, bone health, blood circulation, and help reduce stress.
Keep a slight bend in your knees and raise your arms. Once you’re inside the machine, close the sliding booth door and stand on the grey vibration mat. The session will start automatically, but you can adjust the vibration intensity using the interior remote. Stand with your knees slightly bent and raise both arms overhead. Some booths include straps for extra support.
- You can also control the music volume and fan settings through a small control panel, which will display the time remaining in your session.
Enjoy a 12-minute passive workout and clean the machine afterward. Each session lasts 10 minutes, followed by a 2-minute cooldown. Once your session is complete, exit the machine and get dressed. Don’t forget to clean the machine with the sanitary products available in the room before you leave.
- Results may not be immediate after one session. Planet Fitness suggests using the TBE machines 2-3 times per week with a 24-hour break between sessions for 90 days to see noticeable benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you use Total Body Enhancement? The recommended frequency for red light therapy varies. Planet Fitness advises using the TBE machine 2-3 times weekly with a 24-hour gap between sessions. Others suggest using it daily. A study by the American Association of Dermatology found improvements in skin texture and color in patients who used RLT three times a week for two weeks.
- For personalized recommendations, consult a Planet Fitness staff member or your dermatologist.
How long does it take to see results? Results can vary from person to person and depend on individual goals. Some users experience benefits like reduced inflammation and increased energy after just one session, while others may require up to four months or longer of consistent use to notice improvements.
Can you use red light therapy at home? Yes! There are various forms of LED red light therapy available for home use. You can buy a mask, lamp, or wand. While dramatic improvements may not be immediately visible, it can gradually help improve skin health, including reducing acne, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
What is the cost of Total Body Enhancement? The Total Body Enhancement service at Planet Fitness is included with the Black Card membership, which costs $24.99 per month. However, it's important to note that Total Body Enhancement is only offered at select locations. Be sure to check with your local Planet Fitness to confirm if it's available at your gym.
