Red light therapy, also known as "photobiomodulation," is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-energy red light to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. These benefits make it a popular treatment for skin health and anti-aging, but it turns out that red light therapy can also be a useful supplement for weightlifters looking to enhance their performance and recovery.
One of the main ways that red light therapy can benefit weightlifters is by increasing muscle strength and endurance. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rehabilitative Tissue Engineering Research found that participants who received red light therapy before and after weight training had significantly increased muscle strength and endurance compared to those who did not receive the therapy.
Red light therapy can also help to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time after a workout. The anti-inflammatory effects of the light can help to reduce muscle damage and promote healing, while the increased circulation can help to bring oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, aiding in recovery.
Another potential benefit of red light therapy for weightlifters is its ability to boost the production of testosterone. Testosterone is a key hormone for building muscle mass, and a study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology found that red light therapy increased testosterone levels in mice. While more research is needed to confirm this effect in humans, it is possible that red light therapy could help to boost testosterone levels and enhance muscle growth.
To incorporate red light therapy into their weightlifting routine, weightlifters can use a red light therapy device at home or visit a salon or spa that offers the treatment. It is generally recommended to start with 2-3 sessions per week, with each session lasting around 10-15 minutes. Some users may experience results after just a few sessions, while others may need more consistent use over a longer period of time to see results. Red light therapy devices come in a variety of forms, including handheld devices, full-body panels, and targeted spotlights. When choosing a device, it is important to consider factors such as the size of the coverage area, the intensity of the light, and the wavelength of the LED lights. Our LED light therapy products are optimized for both recovery and performance, skincare and anti-aging.
Overall, incorporating red light therapy into a weightlifting routine can be a useful supplement and a simple but effective way to enhance performance and recovery. Many of the employees on the AAO Care team use it to supplement their fitness regimen. We recommend our Photons Flex as it is our most versatile option, but there are many other machines to chose from! With its ability to increase muscle strength and endurance and reduce muscle soreness, using a red light therapy device at home is worth considering as part of a comprehensive training and recovery plan.
Want to read more about LED light therapy in sports? We found this article, published by the National Library of Medicine, to be a great read!