The Wellness World's Latest Obsession Is a Workout in Red Light

What Is Red Light Therapy, Exactly?

Before we dive into red light workouts, let’s start with the fundamentals of red light therapy.

By targeting the mitochondria, which are the energy creators within skin cells, “Red light therapy kickstarts cell repair, collagen production, and overall rejuvenation,” one of our experts previously shared. “Plus, it enhances blood circulation and reduces inflammation, making it ideal even for autoimmune conditions like psoriasis."

Up to this point, we’ve experienced the accessible treatment in the form of masks, wands, beds, and blankets. From what we’ve seen, daily red light therapy sessions can be as quick as 3 minutes (LED masks), or as long as 45 minutes (workouts). 

While red light therapy has traditionally been a standalone treatment, some studios are now building it directly into exercise classes.

What Happens During a Red Light Workout?

Much like it sounds, a red light workout incorporates red light therapy into a fitness experience. There are a number of ways this can be done. In the case of Burn LA, for example, the classes combine weighted training, strategic sequencing, medical grade LED | NIR red and blue light therapy, and infrared heat.

“I built the method around the belief that movement and recovery belong together,” Chase says, of her varied class formats designed to create a balanced, strong physique. “Rather than working out and seeking recovery afterward, we've integrated everything into a single experience designed to improve performance, recovery, and results. I like to call it biostacking.”

CorePower Yoga, for example, has recently partnered with HigherDOSE to incorporate full body red light mat installations into the studio walls. The idea is to promote relaxation, while easing post-class soreness, and supporting mood and energy. The limited classes are currently available in major cities across the United States, including Los Angeles, New York, and Miami.

Meanwhile, Touchland just hosted a one-off red light pilates class in L.A. to promote the launch of their Blush Rose Glow Essence, a skincare-infused body and hair fragrance mist.

Are Red Light Workouts Actually Effective?

It’s no secret that certain parts of the beauty and wellness industries can be gimmicky and marketing-driven—while others are just ahead of the technology curve. When it comes to red light workouts in particular, the jury is still out. 

For Chase’s part, she says Burn LA utilizes the most advanced LED | NIR red and blue lights that are powerful enough to penetrate through skin, connective tissue, muscle and bone, while actively promoting cellular regeneration. 

“Our studios are designed to allow members to receive continuous exposure while they are in class,” the entrepreneur explains. “The therapy does not require direct skin contact, which allows us to seamlessly integrate it into the workout experience rather than treating it as a separate recovery service.”

Dr. Haskin, however, says, “Unfortunately, the existing evidence for exercise benefits of whole body [red light workouts] is currently too limited. There are only a handful of studies to draw meaningful conclusions. Currently, localized photobiomodulation (red light or low light therapy) is more available in sports medicine clinics, professional athletic performance facilities, and physical therapy centers. However, this may eventually expand into more commercial facilities as the tech continues to evolve.”

Why Are Red Light Workouts Trending?

As we mentioned above, red light workouts tie in key elements of the longevity movement (wellness, fitness, and beauty).

“Red light therapy has become more popular in workouts and fitness studies due to the proposed benefits of improved muscle recovery and exercise performance,” Dr. Haskin explains. “This fits nicely into ‘biohacking’ marketing, even though consistent efficacy of most of these systems have not been scientifically supported.”

Should You Try a Red Light Workout

If you're already curious about red light therapy, a red light workout could be a fun way to combine movement and recovery into a single experience. While the science behind whole-body red light workouts is still emerging, the workouts themselves often emphasize thoughtful programming, low-impact movement, recovery, and overall wellbeing—all things we're generally in favor of.

That said, it's worth managing your expectations. Most experts agree that the proven benefits of exercise itself far outweigh any potential benefits of the red light component. Think of the red light as a possible bonus, not the main event. If the class motivates you to move your body, helps you recover, or simply makes your workout feel more enjoyable, that's a win in our book.

As research continues to evolve, we'll be keeping an eye on this wellness trend. For now, consider it an intriguing addition to your fitness routine—not a miracle shortcut.

Final Thoughts

Like with any new beauty or wellness trend or movement, a real analysis of efficacy takes time. What we do know, however, is that red light workouts aren’t known to hurt anyone. Over the last several years, red light therapy has had actively reported benefits, so it’s a hope that the same can be said for full-body workout treatments. For Chase, the prime purpose of red light therapy in Burn LA workouts is to promote muscle recovery. 

Ultimately, there’s not enough evidence up to this point to support significant impact from said workouts. But Dr. Haskin suggests we’re in the right direction, and she wouldn’t be surprised if we end up with a promising outcome.