Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness: Benefits, Experience, and What to Expect
If you’ve ever walked into a Planet Fitness and noticed the glowing booths tucked away in the corner, you may have wondered what they’re for. That’s where red light therapy at Planet Fitness comes in. More and more people are talking about it, but many are unsure what it really does, how it works, and whether it’s worth trying. In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you can make an informed decision.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy, sometimes called low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and reach your cells. The idea is that this light stimulates mitochondria—the energy-producing parts of your cells—helping them function better. Improved cell function can lead to a range of benefits like faster recovery, reduced inflammation, and healthier-looking skin.
When you try red light therapy at Planet Fitness, you’re stepping into a booth that exposes your body to this therapeutic light. It feels like standing in a tanning bed, but without harmful UV rays. Instead, it’s a gentle warmth designed to energize your body from the inside out.
Why Does Planet Fitness Offer Red Light Therapy?
Planet Fitness is known for offering budget-friendly gym memberships, but they also add extra perks with their Black Card membership. Red light therapy is one of those perks. By including it, they’re giving members access to recovery and wellness benefits that go beyond standard exercise equipment.
Adding red light therapy at Planet Fitness means they’re helping members recover faster after workouts, reduce muscle soreness, and even support skin health. For a fitness chain that emphasizes accessibility and value, it’s a smart way to add something that feels like a luxury treatment without the luxury price tag.
Potential Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Many people are drawn to red light therapy because of its wide range of reported benefits. While research is ongoing, studies suggest it can help with:
Muscle Recovery: By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, red light therapy may help muscles heal faster after intense workouts.
Skin Health: It’s often used in dermatology to reduce wrinkles, scars, and acne, thanks to its ability to boost collagen production.
Joint Pain Relief: People dealing with arthritis or chronic pain sometimes notice reduced discomfort after sessions.
Energy and Mood: Some users report feeling more energized and balanced, possibly because of the effect on cellular energy production.
Of course, results vary. Not everyone will notice dramatic changes right away, but for many, red light therapy at Planet Fitness is a relaxing and helpful part of their routine.
👉 Try a few sessions for yourself and see how your body responds.
What to Expect During a Session
If you’re trying red light therapy at Planet Fitness for the first time, here’s what usually happens:
You step into the booth, which looks a bit like a tanning bed.
The machine emits red and near-infrared light while you stand or lie inside.
Sessions are short, usually 10–15 minutes.
You don’t feel pain—just a gentle warmth from the light.
There’s no downtime, so you can head straight to your workout afterward or use it as a recovery step after exercising. Some people like to do it daily, while others use it a few times a week.
👉 Curious? Book a session on your next gym visit and see how easy it is to add to your routine.
Is It Safe?
One of the biggest concerns people have about therapies involving light is safety. The good news is that red light therapy does not use UV light, so it won’t tan your skin or increase the risk of skin cancer. It’s non-invasive and generally considered safe when used properly.
The main side effect some people experience is mild eye strain if they forget to wear protective goggles, which is why Planet Fitness provides them. Otherwise, it’s a low-risk treatment that’s safe for most adults.
👉 Safety is key—use the provided goggles and enjoy your session worry-free.
How Effective Is It?
Effectiveness varies. Some users swear by red light therapy, saying it helps them recover faster, feel less sore, and even improves their skin. Others may not notice immediate results. Like many wellness treatments, it works best as part of a consistent routine rather than a one-time session.
Experts agree that while research is promising, more large-scale studies are needed. Still, many people enjoy it as a relaxing and beneficial addition to their gym membership. Trying red light therapy at Planet Fitness costs nothing extra for Black Card members, so it’s worth experimenting to see if it works for you.
👉 Consistency matters—commit to regular sessions to see the best results.
Who Should Try It?
Red light therapy is appealing for a wide range of people:
Athletes looking for faster recovery.
Fitness beginners dealing with sore muscles.
Older adults seeking joint pain relief.
Anyone interested in skincare or wellness benefits.
If you fall into one of these categories, adding red light therapy at Planet Fitness to your routine could be a smart choice.
👉 Not sure if it’s right for you? Ask the staff at your local Planet Fitness for guidance.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Red Light Therapy
Be Consistent: One session won’t give lasting results. Aim for several times per week.
Stay Hydrated: Good hydration supports cellular repair.
Pair with Workouts: Use it after strength training or cardio for better recovery.
Listen to Your Body: If you feel more energized and less sore, it’s working for you.
By combining red light therapy with your regular fitness routine, you’ll give your body an extra edge in performance and recovery.
👉 Pair your workouts with red light therapy for a complete fitness and wellness experience.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy at Planet Fitness is more than just a fancy perk—it’s a practical, science-backed tool that supports recovery, skin health, and overall well-being. While results vary, the potential benefits make it worth trying, especially since it’s included with the Black Card membership.
If you’re already a member, don’t overlook this hidden gem. And if you’re thinking of joining Planet Fitness, this feature alone can make the membership more valuable.
