While Planet Fitness is a popular gym chain, a unique feature at many locations is the Total Body Enhancement booth.

(Often called the “Beauty Angel” or red light therapy booth.)

This machine combines 1) red light therapy with 2) whole-body vibration to offer a mix of potential health and fitness benefits.

But is it worth your time, or just a fancy gimmick?

This article dives into the pros and cons of using the Total Body Enhancement booth. We’ll explore what it does, its benefits, its downsides, and whether it fits into your fitness routine.

What Is Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness?

The Total Body Enhancement booth at Planet Fitness is a high-tech machine that looks like a tanning bed but works differently. It uses red light therapy, which involves low-wavelength red lights, paired with a vibrating platform.

You step inside, stand on the vibrating plate, and let the red lights and vibrations do their thing for about 12 minutes per session. The idea is to boost skin health, muscle recovery, and overall wellness with red light therapy.

How it works:

This non-invasive treatment penetrates deep into the skin and muscle tissues, stimulating cellular activity, reducing inflammation, and promoting collagen production.

The result is smoother, more radiant skin, faster healing from physical exertion, and a boost in general vitality – making red light therapy a natural, effective approach to supporting your body’s health from the inside out.

Sounds cool, right?

But it’s not just about standing there feeling like you’re in a sci-fi movie – there’s science behind it, though not all claims are rock-solid.

• Red light therapy works by penetrating the skin with specific wavelengths of light, usually between 630 and 700 nanometers.
• This light is thought to stimulate cells, increase energy production, and promote healing.
• The vibration plate, meanwhile, shakes your body gently to engage muscles and improve circulation.
• Together, they aim to give you a full-body boost in a short time.

Many Planet Fitness locations include this booth in their Black Card membership, so it’s often free to use if you’ve got the upgraded plan. But understanding what it actually does is key before you decide to make it part of your routine.

Benefits of Total Body Enhancement

The Total Body Enhancement booth has some legit perks that make it appealing, especially if you’re already hitting the gym regularly. Users report a range of benefits (from better skin to faster muscle recovery, according to the NIH). While not every claim is backed by hardcore science, there’s enough evidence to suggest it’s more than just a shiny toy. Here are the main pros:

• Improved skin health… since red light therapy is known to boost collagen production, which can reduce wrinkles and make skin look smoother. Some studies show it helps with acne and scars too.
• Muscle recovery… with the vibrations and red light might reduce muscle soreness after workouts. Athletes like Sarah, a 25-year-old runner, swear by it for quicker recovery after long runs.
• Better circulation… because vibrating platform gets blood flowing, which can help with muscle relaxation and overall energy levels.
• Mood boost… some users feel more relaxed or energized after a session at Planet Fitness, possibly due to the light stimulating endorphin release.
• Quick and convenient… with a 12-minute session fitting easily into a busy schedule, making it a low-effort add-on to your gym visit.
• Boosts hormone production… some studies show it can boost testosterone for some people (see the best site to buy testosterone online if you need any).
• Better sleep quality… which enhances cognitive function, stabilizes mood, strengthens the immune system, and supports overall physical and mental well-being.

These benefits sound promising, but they don’t work miracles.

For example, Sarah might notice less soreness after using the booth, but it’s not going to replace her stretching routine or a good night’s sleep. The science on red light therapy is growing, with studies showing it can help with skin conditions like psoriasis or even minor pain relief. Vibration therapy, on the other hand, has been used for years to improve muscle strength and flexibility in some settings. Combining the two in one booth is a clever idea – it’s like getting a two-for-one deal. Still, results vary from person to person, so don’t expect to walk out looking like a superhero after one session.

Downsides of Total Body Enhancement

Nothing’s perfect, and the Total Body Enhancement booth has its share of drawbacks.

While it’s marketed as a wellness wonder, there are some limitations and potential risks to keep in mind.

Not everyone gets the same results, and some folks might not vibe with it at all. Here’s a look at the cons:

• While some studies support red light therapy, the combo with vibration isn’t well-researched. Many claims are based on user experiences, not hard data.
• People with certain conditions, like epilepsy or pacemakers, should avoid the booth due to vibrations or light sensitivity.
• The vibrations can feel weird or even dizzying for some users, especially if you’re new to it.
• Though it’s quick, adding 12 minutes to every gym visit can feel like a chore if you’re not seeing results.
• You need a Black Card membership to use it, which costs more than the basic Planet Fitness plan.

Let’s be real – the lack of solid research is a biggie. Most studies on red light therapy focus on specific uses, like wound healing, not the full-body setup Planet Fitness offers.

The vibration part?

It’s got some backing for improving muscle tone, but the effects are often small and inconsistent. If you’re someone trying to bulk up, you might find the booth doesn’t add much to your weightlifting gains. Plus, if you’re sensitive to shaking or bright lights, it could leave you feeling off instead of energized.

And while the booth is “free” with a Black Card, that membership runs about $22.99 a month – not exactly pocket change for everyone.

Who Should Avoid It?

Certain folks should steer clear of Planet Fitness’s Total Body Enhancement booth to stay safe. If you’ve got a medical condition, talk to a doctor first. Pregnant women, people with heart issues, or those prone to seizures MIGHT face risks from the vibrations or lights. It’s not worth gambling with your health just to try it out.

Always check the safety guidelines posted near a red light therapy booth too.

These guidelines are designed to ensure users operate the equipment correctly and avoid potential harm, such as overexposure or improper use.

Adhering to the recommended duration and distance from the light source is crucial for safe and effective treatment. Many booths also include specific warnings for individuals with certain medical conditions, so reading the posted instructions can help prevent adverse effects. Following these precautions not only protects your health but also maximizes the benefits of red light therapy sessions.

Is Total Body Enhancement Worth It?

So, should you hop in the Total Body Enhancement booth every time you hit Planet Fitness?

It depends on your goals, budget, and how much you trust the hype. If you’re already paying for a Black Card membership, it’s a low-risk add-on to experiment with. But don’t expect it to replace your workouts or fix all your aches and pains. Here’s what to consider when deciding if it’s worth your time:

1) Your Fitness Goals

If you’re aiming for better skin or faster recovery, it might be worth a try. But for major muscle gains or weight loss, stick to traditional exercise.

2) Budget

If you’re not already a Planet Fitness Black Card member, upgrading just for the booth might not make sense unless you’re using other perks like tanning or massage chairs.

3) Consistency

You’ll likely need regular sessions (2-3 times a week) to see any benefits, so factor in the time commitment.

4) Personal Comfort

If vibrations or enclosed spaces make you uneasy, you might not enjoy the experience.

Here’s the deal: the booth is a cool perk, but it’s not a game-changer.

Think of it like a cherry on top of your gym routine – nice to have, but not essential. Some people love the glowy skin or relaxed muscles they get after a session. Others try it a few times and forget about it. If you’re curious, give it a shot and see how your body responds.

But if you’re skeptical or strapped for cash, skipping it won’t ruin your fitness journey.

How to Make the Most of Your Session at Planet Fitness

If you decide to use the Total Body Enhancement booth, a few tips can help you get the best results. First, stay consistent – sporadic use probably won’t do much. Second, pair it with a solid workout plan; don’t rely on the booth alone. Third, follow the instructions carefully, like wearing protective eyewear for the red lights. Lastly, listen to your body – if it feels off, take a break. Why push through red light therapy something that doesn’t feel right?

• Listen to your body and trust your instincts when something doesn’t sit well.
• Discomfort or unease could be a signal that the treatment isn’t suitable for your specific needs or that there may be underlying issues to address first.
• Continuing with a therapy that doesn’t feel right might not only be ineffective but could also lead to adverse effects.

Instead of pushing through, consider consulting a healthcare professional to reevaluate your approach and explore alternative options that align better with your health goals and personal comfort. (Prioritizing your well-being means recognizing when to pause or change direction for the sake of long-term results.)

Try It A Few Times at Your Favorite Gym!

The Total Body Enhancement booth at Planet Fitness gym is an interesting mix of red light therapy and whole-body vibration.

It’s got some solid benefits, like better skin and potential muscle recovery… but it’s not without flaws.

The science is still catching up, and it’s not for everyone. If you’ve got a Black Card membership, it’s worth trying to see if it clicks for you. But don’t feel pressured to make it a must-do – your workouts, diet, and rest are still the real MVPs of fitness.

They form the foundation of any successful health journey.

Consistent workouts help build strength, endurance, and overall physical performance. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients to fuel your body and promote recovery. Adequate rest allows your muscles to repair, prevents burnout, and supports long-term progress. Together, these three elements create a powerful synergy that drives results, enhances well-being, and supports sustainable fitness goals.

So, what’s your take? Ready to step into the red light, or sticking to the treadmill?