Does Planet Fitness Total Body Enhancement Work

The promise of achieving a full-body glow in just minutes has made Planet Fitness's Total Body Enhancement booth, often called the Beauty Angel, a popular amenity. But does this red light therapy actually deliver on its promises, or is it simply another fitness fad?

This article delves into the science behind Planet Fitness's Total Body Enhancement, examining its purported benefits, expert opinions, and potential risks. We'll explore how it works, what it claims to do, and whether the evidence supports these claims, helping you decide if it's worth incorporating into your fitness routine.

What is Total Body Enhancement?

The Total Body Enhancement booth at Planet Fitness utilizes red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation.

This involves exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light.

The premise is that these specific wavelengths of light can penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function.

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy

RLT works by affecting the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells.

When red light penetrates the skin, it's believed to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell's primary energy currency. This enhanced energy production can potentially improve various cellular processes.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), RLT has been investigated for a range of applications, from wound healing to pain relief.

Claimed Benefits and Expert Opinions

Planet Fitness advertises the Total Body Enhancement booth as providing benefits such as skin rejuvenation, reduced appearance of wrinkles and cellulite, and improved muscle recovery.

These claims are largely based on the general research surrounding RLT.

However, it’s important to discern between broad research on RLT and specific studies validating these benefits from the particular devices used at Planet Fitness.

Dermatologists like Dr. Emily Carter, in an interview with Healthline, acknowledge that RLT can stimulate collagen production, potentially improving skin elasticity.

However, she cautions that the effectiveness can vary greatly depending on the device's power output, wavelength, and exposure time.

“Not all red light devices are created equal,” Dr. Carter noted. "The intensity of the light and the duration of exposure are critical factors in determining whether you'll see any noticeable results.”

Regarding muscle recovery, some studies suggest that RLT may reduce inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise.

However, the evidence is still considered preliminary, and more rigorous research is needed to confirm these effects definitively.

Is There Concrete Evidence?

A key issue is the lack of independent, peer-reviewed studies specifically evaluating the Planet Fitness Total Body Enhancement booths themselves.

Most available evidence relies on the generalized benefits of red light therapy.

Without data from specific Planet Fitness devices, it's hard to say definitively whether the benefits are directly transferable.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While RLT is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks to be aware of.

Overexposure to red light can lead to skin irritation or burns, although this is rare with the low-intensity devices used at Planet Fitness.

It's essential to follow the recommended exposure times and avoid looking directly into the light.

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as photosensitivity or a history of skin cancer, should consult their doctor before using RLT.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate red light therapy devices as stringently as medical devices.

This means the effectiveness and safety claims may not be thoroughly vetted.

Planet Fitness's Perspective

Planet Fitness emphasizes that the Total Body Enhancement booth is intended as a supplementary wellness offering, not a medical treatment.

Their website states that the booth aims to provide "red light therapy to help you feel and look your best."

However, they do not offer detailed specifications about the device's power output or wavelengths.

Many Planet Fitness members enjoy using the booth and report feeling positive effects, such as improved skin tone or reduced muscle soreness.

These anecdotal experiences highlight the potential placebo effect, where a person's belief in the treatment contributes to its perceived effectiveness.

Individual results can vary significantly.

The Verdict

While the science behind red light therapy shows promise, the efficacy of Planet Fitness's Total Body Enhancement booth remains somewhat inconclusive.

The lack of device-specific research makes it difficult to confirm whether the advertised benefits are consistently achieved.

If you're considering using the booth, it's essential to have realistic expectations and prioritize safety by adhering to recommended exposure times.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to incorporate the Total Body Enhancement into your routine is a personal one.

Consider your individual needs, consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, and weigh the potential benefits against the limitations of the available evidence.

More research is needed to fully understand the specific effects of these devices and their potential long-term impacts.