Planet Fitness is known for being an affordable and beginner-friendly gym, but what really caught my attention was their red light therapy. I had heard about its potential benefits, like skin rejuvenation, muscle recovery, and pain relief, but I wasn’t sure if it actually worked. So, I decided to try it out myself and see if it was worth the hype.
In this article, I’ll share my personal experience with Planet Fitness’s red light therapy, explain how it works, and whether it’s actually beneficial.
Does Planet Fitness Offer Red Light Therapy?
Yes, Planet Fitness does have red light therapy, but it’s not available to all members. You can only access it if you have a Black Card Membership, which costs more than the basic plan. The red light therapy booth is usually located near the tanning area in most Planet Fitness locations.
When I first walked into the red light therapy booth, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The machine looked like a futuristic tanning bed, but instead of UV rays, it emitted red and near-infrared light. It felt warm, but not uncomfortable, and the session lasted about 12 minutes.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-wavelength red light to penetrate the skin and muscles. It is said to help with:
✅ Muscle recovery – Helps reduce soreness after workouts
✅ Joint pain relief – May ease discomfort from inflammation
✅ Skin health – Promotes collagen production and reduces wrinkles
✅ Improved blood circulation – Helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues
At Planet Fitness, this therapy is often marketed as a post-workout recovery tool. Some locations call it the “Total Body Enhancement” machine, which combines red light therapy with vibration therapy to further aid muscle relaxation.
My Experience Using Planet Fitness Red Light Therapy
Since I work out several times a week, I was really curious to see if red light therapy would help with muscle soreness and recovery. After using it for a few weeks, here’s what I noticed:
1. Did It Help with Muscle Recovery?
After intense leg days, I often experience stiffness and soreness. After using the red light therapy booth consistently, I did feel less soreness, but I couldn’t tell if it was because of the therapy itself or just my normal recovery process.
2. Did It Improve My Skin?
Red light therapy is said to improve skin tone and reduce wrinkles. While I didn’t see any major changes, my skin did feel smoother and slightly more hydrated after a few sessions.
3. Was It Comfortable to Use?
Yes! The red light therapy booth was actually relaxing. It didn’t feel like a tanning bed, and the gentle warmth was nice after a workout. The added vibration plate also made my muscles feel more relaxed.
Also Read: Are Planet Fitness Personal Trainers Any God – A Complete Overview!
Is Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness Worth It?
If you already have a Black Card Membership, then it’s worth trying. It’s a nice bonus feature, and it can be relaxing after a workout. However, if you’re thinking about upgrading just for red light therapy, you should consider the following:
Pros:
✔️ Included in the Black Card Membership – No extra cost if you already have it
✔️ Can help with mild muscle soreness – Especially after workouts
✔️ Relaxing and easy to use – Feels like a spa-like experience
✔️ Might improve skin health over time
Cons:
❌ Results vary – Some people see benefits, while others don’t notice much
❌ Not available in all locations – Some Planet Fitness gyms don’t have this feature
❌ Requires consistency – You won’t see major results after just one session
For me, it was a nice post-workout recovery tool, but I wouldn’t call it a miracle treatment. It helped with relaxation, but the effects on muscle soreness and skin health were subtle.
FAQ’s
1. Does Planet Fitness have red light therapy?
Yes, Planet Fitness offers red light therapy as part of its Black Card Membership under the “Total Body Enhancement” machine.
2. Is red light therapy free at Planet Fitness?
It’s included in the Black Card Membership but not available for basic membership holders.
3. What are the benefits of red light therapy at Planet Fitness?
It may help with muscle recovery, joint pain relief, skin health, and improved circulation.
4. How long is a red light therapy session at Planet Fitness?
Each session typically lasts 10–12 minutes.
5. Does red light therapy at Planet Fitness help with weight loss?
It’s not a weight-loss tool, but the vibration plate in the machine may help with muscle stimulation.
6. Is red light therapy safe?
Yes, it’s non-invasive and considered safe, with no known serious side effects.
7. Do all Planet Fitness locations have red light therapy?
No, availability varies by location. It’s best to check with your local gym.
8. How often should I use red light therapy at Planet Fitness?
For best results, many users try 3–4 sessions per week, but consistency is key.
Final Verdict: Should You Try It?
If you already go to Planet Fitness and have a Black Card Membership, there’s no reason not to try it. It’s a free perk, and you might notice some benefits with muscle recovery and relaxation. However, if you’re expecting instant pain relief or drastic skin improvements, you might be disappointed. For me, red light therapy at Planet Fitness was a nice addition to my workout routine, but not a must-have feature. If your gym has it, I’d say give it a try—you might just find it works for you!