A growing trend in the fitness and wellness industry is taking advantage of the recovery benefits of red light therapy. This non-invasive treatment exposes the body to low-level, red and near-infrared light wavelengths, which have numerous benefits for the body.
Red light therapy (RLT) is a form of phototherapy that uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. It stimulates the body’s natural healing processes and improve various aspects of physical and mental wellness.
This therapy is particularly helpful for improving muscle recovery, reducing inflammation and pain, and promoting overall fitness and wellness.
Muscle Recovery
RLT is helpful for fitness and wellness is by aiding in muscle recovery. When we engage in physical activity, our muscles undergo a process of tearing and repairing. That process is essential for building strength and endurance.
However, this process can be prolonged and painful, leading to muscle soreness and fatigue.
Red light therapy has been shown to speed up muscle recovery by;
- increasing circulation
- reducing inflammation
- promoting the production of collagen and elastin
As a result, red light therapy can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, allowing you to bounce back faster and more effectively after workouts.
In addition to aiding in muscle recovery, red light therapy has also been shown to reduce inflammation and pain.
Collagen Production
Promoting the production of collagen is one of the recovery benefits of red light therapy. Collagen is a protein that is essential for the health and strength of connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. By increasing collagen production, red light therapy can help to reduce the risk of injury and improve recovery time after workouts. This makes it a useful tool for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to improve their performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Red light therapy is anti-inflammatory, which can be beneficial for those with chronic pain or inflammation. This can help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness, making it easier for individuals to engage in physical activity.
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or damage, and while it is necessary for healing, excessive or chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including muscle and joint pain.
Red light therapy reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activating anti-inflammatory pathways. As a result, red light therapy can help reduce muscle and joint pain, making it easier to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Red Light Therapy Provides Energy
Another way that red light therapy can be helpful for fitness and wellness is by promoting the production of ATP, the body’s main source of energy.
This can help to improve energy levels and overall stamina, making it easier to engage in physical activity and workout for longer periods of time.
Research on the Recovery Benefits of Red Light Therapy
There is a growing body of research supporting the use of red light therapy for fitness and wellness. A study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology found that red light therapy was effective in reducing muscle soreness and improving muscle strength in athletes (1).
Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that red light therapy was effective in reducing chronic pain and improving physical function in individuals with osteoarthritis (2).
While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of red light therapy, the existing evidence suggests it can be a valuable addition to a fitness and wellness routine.
Summary TL;DR
Overall, red light therapy can be an excellent tool for improving fitness and wellness. By aiding in muscle recovery, reducing inflammation and pain, and promoting collagen production, red light therapy can help you stay active, recover faster, and enjoy a greater sense of physical and mental well-being.
If you’re looking to improve your fitness and wellness, consider incorporating red light therapy into your routine as a safe, natural, and effective way to support your goals.
LEARN MORE: 3 Ways Red Light Therapy Can Help Athletes Recover
References:
- Miqueles, N. A., de Sousa, D. P., Ribeiro, L. F., Crippa, G. A., & de Oliveira, R. M. (2015). Red and near-infrared light therapy in post-exercise muscle recovery: a systematic review. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, 117, 13-22.
- Toma, H., Nakano, T., & Iwamoto, J. (2016). Red light therapy for osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Medical Association, 315(16), 1754-1760.