Table of Contents
Introduction
- When you walk into a Planet Fitness gym, you expect treadmills, weight machines, and perhaps a few group classes. But for many, one of the lesser-known perks of a Planet Fitness membership is the Total Body Enhancement machine. This advanced equipment, often met with curiosity, is designed to offer a unique form of fitness enhancement and recovery. But what exactly is Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness, and how does it work?
- In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Total Body Enhancement (TBE), how it can enhance your fitness journey, and why it might become your favorite new addition to your workout routine.
What Is Total Body Enhancement?
- Total Body Enhancement, sometimes referred to as the “Beauty Angel” at Planet Fitness, is a booth equipped with full-body vibration plates and red light therapy. It combines these two technologies to provide users with several benefits, ranging from skin rejuvenation to muscle recovery.
- The machine is intended for use before or after a workout. Some members use it for warming up, while others find it particularly useful as a recovery tool after a tough session. Planet Fitness offers Total Body Enhancement as part of their Black Card membership, making it accessible to those who want to add a new layer to their fitness regimen.
The Technology Behind Total Body Enhancement
The machine uses two primary technologies:
- Red Light Therapy: This type of therapy utilizes low-level wavelengths of red light to penetrate the skin’s layers and stimulate cells. Red light therapy is believed to enhance circulation, repair tissue, reduce inflammation, and boost the body’s natural healing processes.
- Vibration Plates: The booth also contains vibration plates, which vibrate at various intensities. Whole-body vibration training can engage muscles in a unique way, helping with muscle stimulation, flexibility, and even balance.
When used together, these technologies can deliver an array of benefits to both your fitness performance and overall well-being.
How Does Total Body Enhancement Work?
Planet Fitness’s Total Body Enhancement is relatively simple to use. When you step inside, you will stand on the vibration plate, and the booth will begin emitting red light. The experience usually lasts for about 12 minutes, and users can adjust the vibration intensity based on their preferences.
There are multiple program settings, with varying intensities and vibration frequencies, which can be customized for different user needs—whether you are a beginner or an advanced fitness enthusiast.
Let’s break down how the two primary components work together:
- Red Light Therapy: The red light penetrates the skin, activating the mitochondria in your cells. This process enhances collagen production, improves circulation, and can help with skin elasticity. The gentle, non-invasive light is completely safe for the skin and doesn’t produce heat, making it comfortable to use.
- Vibration Plates: As the platform vibrates, your muscles contract and relax rapidly. This engages the muscles more efficiently than standing still. The vibrations also improve blood flow, promote lymphatic drainage, and help to warm up the body before a workout or aid in muscle recovery afterward.
Key Benefits of Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness
1. Improved Circulation and Oxygenation
The red light therapy aspect of Total Body Enhancement can improve blood circulation, helping to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This increased oxygen flow can aid in quicker muscle recovery and may even enhance performance during your workouts.
2. Muscle Stimulation
The vibrations from the platform stimulate muscle activity, which can help to strengthen muscles over time. This can also aid in warming up the body pre-workout, reducing the risk of injury during exercise, or improving flexibility post-workout.
3. Skin Health and Appearance
The benefits of red light treatment for anti-aging are well-known. The enhanced collagen production triggered by red light can help to smooth out wrinkles, improve skin tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Users often report a subtle glow or overall improvement in their skin after consistent use.
4. Fat Reduction and Toning
The vibration plates can help with toning and even minor fat reduction. While it’s not a substitute for a well-rounded fitness routine and diet, the enhanced muscle engagement combined with red light therapy may help to sculpt and firm certain areas of the body over time.
5. Reduced Inflammation and Pain
Red light therapy has been widely studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or simply the after-effects of an intense workout, the anti-inflammatory benefits of red light therapy may offer relief.
6. Enhanced Mood and Energy
While most people focus on the physical benefits of Total Body Enhancement, it’s important to note that red light therapy has been linked to improved mental well-being. Many users report an increase in energy levels and mood after using the machine, possibly due to the enhanced circulation and endorphin release.
How Often Should You Use Total Body Enhancement?
- Like most wellness tools, the benefits of Total Body Enhancement become more apparent with consistent use. Many Planet Fitness members incorporated THE into their routine two to three times per week, although some use it more frequently based on their fitness goals.
- For best results, it’s a good idea to integrate Total Body Enhancement into a broader wellness regimen that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper hydration.
Is Total Body Enhancement Safe?
Yes, Total Body Enhancement is considered safe for the majority of users. Red light therapy is non-invasive, and vibration plates are generally low-impact, making the experience gentle on the body. Nonetheless, there are a few things to remember:
- Consult Your Doctor: If you have any underlying health conditions (especially cardiovascular issues or joint problems), it’s always a good idea to consult with your physician before using Total Body Enhancement.
- Stay Hydrated: It’s essential to stay well-hydrated when using the machine, as red light therapy can increase your body’s detoxification processes.
- Avoid Overuse: While TBE is safe, overuse of vibration plates can cause discomfort or strain. It’s best to start slow, especially if you’re new to this kind of therapy.
Who Should Use Total Body Enhancement?
The Total Body Enhancement machine at Planet Fitness is suitable for a wide range of individuals. Whether you’re looking to improve your workout performance, recover faster after a gym session, or enhance your overall skin health, the machine can offer numerous benefits.
Here are a few types of gym-goers who might benefit the most:
- Fitness Enthusiasts: Those who exercise regularly may find that the TBE helps with muscle recovery, reduces soreness, and improves flexibility.
- Individuals Seeking Anti-Aging Benefits: If you’re interested in skin rejuvenation, the red light therapy aspect of THE can provide some cosmetic benefits, including smoother, more radiant skin.
- Those with Muscle Aches or Pains: If you experience frequent muscle pain, whether due to workouts or other factors, the machine’s combination of red light and vibration can potentially help alleviate discomfort and inflammation.
- People New to Fitness: For beginners, Total Body Enhancement can provide a low-impact introduction to muscle stimulation and recovery without being too intense.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Total Body Enhancement
1. Can I use Total Body Enhancement every day?
While you can use THE daily, most experts recommend starting with two to three sessions per week to see how your body responds. Overusing the vibration plates might lead to discomfort.
2. Do I need to wear special clothes when using the machine?
No, you don’t need to wear anything special. However, wearing light, breathable clothing allows the red light to better penetrate the skin, making the therapy more effective.
3. Can Total Body Enhancement help with weight loss?
TBE is not a weight loss tool, but it may complement your fitness journey. The machine’s ability to stimulate muscles and enhance circulation could indirectly support fat loss and muscle toning when paired with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
4. How long is a Total Body Enhancement session?
Most sessions last about 12 minutes. This gives enough time for both the red light therapy and vibration plates to work without overdoing it.
5. Is there any scientific proof that red light therapy works?
Yes, several studies have shown that red light therapy can improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and enhance muscle recovery. However, as with many wellness technologies, individual results may vary.
Final Thoughts: Is Total Body Enhancement Worth It?
- If you’re already a Planet Fitness Black Card member, trying the Total Body Enhancement machine is a no-brainer. With potential benefits ranging from improved muscle recovery to skin rejuvenation, it offers a range of perks that can enhance your fitness routine and overall well-being.
- While Total Body Enhancement won’t replace traditional workouts or skincare routines, it’s a helpful tool that can support your fitness goals. Whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or simply seeking some rejuvenation, the combination of red light therapy and vibration plates makes for a unique and worthwhile experience.
- With consistent use, TBE can become a valuable part of your fitness routine, offering subtle but noticeable improvements in muscle recovery, circulation, and overall health.
- Next time you’re at Planet Fitness, why not give it a try? After all, the Total Body Enhancement machine is one more way Planet Fitness makes its gyms a judgment-free zone—designed to help you feel good, inside and out.
