MY HONEST Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness REVIEW 2025

Red light therapy (RLT) has become a popular treatment for everything from improving skin health to aiding muscle recovery. A standout feature in many Planet Fitness locations is the Total Body Enhancement (TBE) machine, which combines red light therapy with whole-body vibration. But does this combination really live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll dive deep into my personal experience with red light therapy at Planet Fitness, covering everything from the technology to the benefits and limitations, along with a few expert insights.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses low-wavelength red light (typically between 620–700 nm) to stimulate various healing processes in the body. Originally developed for its therapeutic uses in wound healing, RLT has since been explored for its potential to reduce inflammation, improve skin tone, and aid in muscle recovery. The science behind it is that red light penetrates the skin to promote cellular activity, including boosting collagen production and improving mitochondrial function.

Planet Fitness offers this therapy through the Total Body Enhancement (TBE) machine, combining RLT with vibration therapy to enhance its effects. But how effective is this service really? Let’s break it down.

The Total Body Enhancement Machine: How It Works

The TBE machine at Planet Fitness is a standing booth that surrounds your body with red light while you stand on a vibrating platform. It’s simple to use—select a program, step into the machine, and stand still for a 12-minute session. The vibration helps stimulate your muscles and improve circulation, while the red light targets your skin and cellular regeneration.

Vibration Therapy

The TBE machine offers different vibration levels, but it is important to note that it’s not a workout. The vibration is more about relaxation and promoting lymphatic drainage than muscle strengthening. Some users find the vibration soothing, especially after a tough workout, while others may not be as comfortable with the feeling. The vibration can help improve circulation, ease muscle soreness, and even reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Red Light Therapy

The red light component works by emitting a combination of therapeutic light to help stimulate collagen production, improve skin tone, and speed up recovery. The machine offers four settings, each with a specific vibration intensity. The warmth from the light combined with the vibration can make for a relaxing experience, and many users report feeling more rejuvenated after just a few sessions.

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness

1. Skin Health and Appearance

One of the key selling points of red light therapy is its ability to improve skin health. Many users, myself included, have noticed smoother skin and a more even skin tone after regular sessions. The therapy is believed to stimulate collagen production, which helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and the appearance of stretch marks. It also enhances skin texture, giving it a soft, refreshed feel.

2. Reduced Muscle Soreness

For fitness enthusiasts, red light therapy at Planet Fitness is particularly appealing for its muscle recovery benefits. After a workout, muscle soreness can often hinder performance. By using the TBE machine, you can help promote healing by increasing blood flow and stimulating cellular energy. I personally felt my sore muscles were noticeably less tense and fatigued after several sessions.

3. Cellulite Reduction

While the red light therapy is not a magic bullet for cellulite, it may help improve the overall appearance of the skin by promoting circulation and reducing the fatty layer just beneath the skin. A few users report seeing a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, though results may vary depending on the individual.

4. Reduced Varicose and Spider Veins

One of the more intriguing benefits is the potential for reducing the appearance of varicose and spider veins. Several users have shared positive results regarding the reduction of these veins after consistent use of the TBE machine. The red light promotes better circulation, which can lead to healthier veins over time.

5. Relaxation and Stress Relief

The combination of vibration and red light creates a calming, therapeutic experience. It’s especially beneficial after a long day or a strenuous workout. Many users report feeling relaxed, with some even noting that it helped improve their mood and sleep quality. The soothing effects of the TBE machine can be a great way to unwind after a stressful day.

The Limitations of Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness

While the Total Body Enhancement machine at Planet Fitness offers several benefits, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you commit to regular sessions.

1. Limited Light Spectrum

One of the main limitations of the TBE machine is that it primarily uses red light, while more advanced red light therapy devices often incorporate near-infrared light (NIR). NIR light is believed to penetrate deeper into the skin and tissues, making it more effective for muscle recovery and pain relief. The absence of NIR light means that the TBE machine might not be as effective for deep tissue healing as other specialized devices.

2. Inconsistent Results

As with any therapy, results can vary from person to person. While many users report improvements in skin tone and muscle recovery, others may not experience noticeable changes. This variability can be frustrating, especially if you are using the service regularly. I personally saw subtle improvements in skin texture, but I didn’t experience dramatic results, such as the complete disappearance of stretch marks or veins.

3. Time Commitment and Cost

Though it’s convenient to use the TBE machine at Planet Fitness, especially if you already have a membership, it can still require a time commitment to see results. Each session lasts about 12 minutes, and consistent use over weeks or months may be necessary for visible improvements. Additionally, you need to have a Black Card membership to access the Total Body Enhancement machine, which costs around $24.99 per month. This is more expensive than the basic membership and may not be worth it if you’re not using the machine regularly.

4. Vibration Plate May Not Be for Everyone

While the vibration plate is a feature that many find beneficial, it’s not for everyone. Some people may find it uncomfortable, especially if they have issues with balance or dizziness. Personally, I enjoyed the vibration, but it did take some getting used to, especially on higher settings. If you suffer from vertigo or motion sensitivity, the vibration plate may be a deterrent for you.

5. Lack of Long-Term Scientific Data

Although red light therapy is widely regarded as a safe and beneficial treatment, the long-term effects of using the TBE machine specifically are still not fully understood. While there are studies supporting the use of red light therapy for various health benefits, there’s not enough conclusive data about the specific combination of red light and vibration therapy offered by Planet Fitness.

My Personal Experience with Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness

I began using the Total Body Enhancement machine at Planet Fitness after hearing about its benefits for skin and muscle recovery. After several weeks of using the machine three to four times a week, I noticed the following:

• Smoother Skin: I observed that my skin felt softer and appeared more even-toned.
• Reduced Muscle Soreness: After intense workouts, I felt less sore and more mobile, which helped me keep my training on track.
• No Dramatic Skin Changes: While my skin felt smoother, I did not experience the dramatic reductions in cellulite or wrinkles that some users claimed.

I didn’t see life-changing results, but I did feel an improvement in my overall well-being. The experience was calming, and the machine became a nice addition to my routine, particularly after intense workouts.

Conclusion: Is Red Light Therapy at Planet Fitness Worth It?

Overall, red light therapy at Planet Fitness through the Total Body Enhancement machine can be a valuable addition to your fitness and wellness routine. It’s not a miracle solution, but it does offer benefits like smoother skin, reduced muscle soreness, and relaxation. The combination of red light therapy and vibration may help improve circulation and stimulate healing processes, making it a great option for those looking for a non-invasive recovery tool.

However, the machine’s effectiveness depends on individual factors such as consistency of use, skin type, and health goals. While I’ve found the therapy useful for improving my skin’s texture and easing muscle soreness, it may not provide dramatic changes for everyone.

If you’re already a Planet Fitness member with a Black Card, it’s worth giving the Total Body Enhancement machine a try. However, if you’re expecting rapid, drastic changes, you might need to adjust your expectations and approach the therapy with patience and consistency.