Technologies are developing relentlessly, and the world of sports and devices that can keep the body in good shape is also moving forward. In this article, we will tell you what Total Body Enhancement is, what the pros and cons you should know about before trying this machine for the first time. Also, we are ready to provide you with clinical studies about its operation: so, can this unit help you solve many issues sacred to your body, or not?
Pros
- Tones the body and trains the muscles;
- Helps in fat burning as it gives more energy for heavier workouts (also burn calories, prevent cellulite);
- Reduces joint pain after the workout.
Cons
- The same benefits are available in home-use light therapy devices;
- Can cause health problems (nausea, drop in blood pressure, vertigo) due to high intensity that impacts the whole body.
However, unlike home-use effective alternatives that have the same effect, Total Body Enhancement can cause nausea, drop in blood pressure as it exposes the whole body, not only the certain area like target domestic devices.
Worthy alternatives
If you are currently unable to use Planet Fitness, we recommend trying alternative devices that will also work effectively.
Studies show that Infrared Sauna Blankets help
to lose weight, release stress & improve skin
There are plenty of devices that can provide similar benefits as the Total Body Enhancement machine does. To your attention Infrared Sauna Blankets.
They are proven to be effective in weight loss and cellulite treatment. But the key benefits are relaxation and detoxication. Losing weight while chilling in the warm blanket, what can be better?
What is Total Body Enhancement & what does it have to do with “Planet fitness”?
“Planet fitness” is a network of gyms with one quite interesting trainer called Total Body Enhancement. This machine, also known as Beauty Angel, is available at their spa center for Black Card holders. It looks like a tanning bed, but it has completely different functions — it is a booth for red light therapy. The exterior of the cabin is the only resemblance to a solarium. Instead of ultraviolet rays, Total Body Enhancement uses infrared rays that target the entire body.
What is the essence of this unit, how does it work, its pros and cons, and what everyone who dares to try Total Body Enhancement for the first time needs to know?
How does Total Body Enhancement work?
Red light is essential but not the only function here: the booth also has a special vibrating tile on the booth floor, which effectively tones the body. The vibration of the plates, combined with red light therapy, promotes the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) or, in other words, energy for cells. Thus, with a large amount of cellular energy, you will be ready for even the most strenuous exercises in the gym. Vibrations also train the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back. Don’t worry about the vibration being too noticeable: the Beauty Angel offers programs for both beginners and more advanced users.
Moreover, you should know that Total Body Enhancement also helps in muscle recovery after exercise. The device reduces joint pain and inflammation. Additional functions of the Beauty Angel are as follows:
🔥 Helps in fat burning
Yes, the unit helps with fat burning, but this does not mean that you can simply get into the booth, and expect to see your fat melt away. The essence of this function is that we have more energy in our cells thanks to the Beauty Angel. This means that with the help of this device, we can withstand heavier, energy-consuming workouts. Accordingly, we can exercise even harder and burn more calories and fat.
💪 Supports muscle growth
In addition to burning fat, the extra energy also helps with muscle building. The more we use the muscles, the more visible they become. The Total Body Enhancement device enables you to finish your workout, relieving fatigue after high-intensity cardio and strengthening exercises. The extra energy never hurts!
🥊 Improves overall condition after exercises
Did you know that even after a long, grueling workout, you can feel refreshed? Thanks to the Beauty Angel, you will remain full of energy after using the device for just 12 minutes of training.
👶 Has an anti-aging effect
One of the device’s features is the anti-aging effect on skin cells. Red light therapy is often used for various cosmetic problems — wrinkles, stretch marks, etc. Beauty Angel tightens the skin, keeps it toned, making it softer and silkier.
Also, the Total Body Enhancement device plays relaxing music, which makes using the unit more pleasant. As a result, red ray therapy and vibrating plate in tandem help you burn calories, prevent cellulite and generally improve blood circulation throughout the body. To start your own “Enhancement” therapy, you need to enter the booth for just 12 minutes before or after your workout.
What side effects can Total Body Enhancement have?
As with any product related to sport, the Beauty Angel also has some caveats and limitations.
- This device is only available to Planet Fitness Black Card Membership Holders. It costs $19.99 a month and includes access to all 700 clubs in the Planet Fitness chain and the use of massage chairs, Hydro-massage beds, tanning, etc.
- The use of the Total Body Enhancement has a weight limit of 300 lbs.
- The machine is not suitable for pregnant women, those under medication, or those with pacemakers, and not for people who had recent surgery.
Using red light is usually safe. However, there may be minimal side effects. To make sure that this is just a side effect and not a serious problem, study the following list, which includes:
- Headache;
- Tension in the eyes;
- Irritability.
These side effects can occur due to red light, as some people may have an intolerance. Therefore, for your safety, when using the Beauty Angel device, you need to wear protective goggles that are similar to those used in tanning salons.
Also, the time allotted for the session should be mediated to avoid overheating and burns. Since infrared light is thermal, it can cause burns, but it is not the same burn as you get from UV in tanning beds. In any case, following all instructions will keep you safe from side effects.
Read more about Laser Lipo Machines that are completely safe to use at home and won’t cause burns until you follow the instructions.
Pros & Cons of using Total Body Enhancement machine
So let’s recap all the pros and cons of Total Body Enhancement.
Pros
- Tones the body and train the muscles;
- Produces ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — energy for cells;
- Reduces joint pain and inflammation;
- Helps in fat burning because it gives more energy for heavier workouts (also burn calories, prevent cellulite);
- Supports muscle growth;
- Improves mood and overall condition in a gym;
- Only 12 minutes is needed for one session;
- The device improves skin complexion, makes the skin smoother;
- Improves blood circulation in the body;
- Has an anti-aging effect on skin cells.
Cons
- Is available only for Planet Fitness Black Card Membership Holders ($19.99 per month);
- Has a weight limit of 300 lbs;
- Is not suitable for pregnant women;
- Is not suitable for those taking medication or those with pacemakers;
- Is not suitable for people who had recent surgery;
- Can give minimal side effects: headache, some tension in the eyes, and irritability.
Studies prove that Infrared Sauna Blankets work for cellulite treatment and fat loss
If you want to burn fat and treat cellulite in the comfort of your home, we have a scientifically proven solution for you — Infrared Sauna Blankets.
Besides, the benefits listed above, it also reduces the stress level, contributes to detoxication, and due to infrared light, the blanket boosts collagen production making skin look younger.
The effectiveness of Total Body Enhancement based on clinical trials
To believe that Total Body Enhancement works, you need to look at some clinical studies about the effect of red light on our body.
Since one of Beauty Angel’s functions is to reduce muscle pain after exercise, we found a clinical study [1] that proves that low-level red light laser therapy (LLLT) can reduce pain. The trial found that 96% of patients found pain relief after two years of treating oral mucositis by undergoing infrared light therapy.
The authors of another clinical study [2] investigated the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy on pain in adult patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Eighteen studies allowing for 21 head-to-head comparisons (totaling 1462 participants who took part in the study) were included. The trial concluded that red light therapy effectively reduces pain in adult patients with severe musculoskeletal disorders.
We already know that the Beauty Angel’s red light energizes our cells, allowing us to perform more complex exercises, thereby burning fat and calories more actively. Moreover, red light also keeps the muscles in the body toned.
Atrophy from disuse and pain can be major barriers to recovery from musculoskeletal injury. The following study [3] showed that light therapy improves muscle function during rehabilitation and is of great benefit to patients.
The findings were as follows: when applied to the skeletal muscle before resistance training, red light therapy effectively reduces loss of strength. Therefore, light therapy may be a useful non-invasive method for improving muscle function during rehabilitation after musculoskeletal injury. The study involved 39 healthy people — 21 men and 18 women aged 20 to 22 years.
Another research [4] has shown that red light therapy has a positive effect on skin rejuvenation, thanks to collagen production. You can see the mechanism of action of LLLT on the skin in the picture below.
In this clinical study [4], there were several stages. The first was attended by 300 people who received only LED therapy. In the second phase, 600 patients have gotten LED therapy with a thermal photorejuvenation procedure. 90% of those participants who had photorejuvenation with LEDs confirmed that significantly softened their skin, and reduced dryness and fine expression lines.
The next stage of the research trial was conducted, with 90 patients receiving 8 LED treatments over 4 weeks. The outcome of this study showed 90% of those candidates who had photorejuvenation with LEDs confirmed that the photoaging slowed down, and 65% of members of the trial improved their face condition, including pigmentation, fine lines, texture. The best result appeared 4-6 months after the completion of 8 procedures.
How to use Total Body Enhancement step by step
Globally, you can use the Total Body Enhancement whenever you want. However, there are clear instructions about the time of use. The manufacturer recommends using Beauty Angel 2-3 times a week for 12 minutes for 90 days and leaving a gap of 24 hours between sessions. According to those who have already tried the unit, the best results are achieved in the period from 8 to 12 weeks.
As practice shows, even Planet Fitness employees do not always know how to use the cabin correctly. Moreover, there are no publicly available official instructions for use. So if you decide to try Total Body Enhancement for the first time, follow our step-by-step instructions for using the device:
Each 12-minute session begins with a warm-up phase and ends with a cooling-down phase. The vibration program usually lasts 10 minutes out of the 12 allocated for the session, while the red lamps will work for the entire 12 minutes. Since vibration takes up most of the session, it is essential to understand how to set it up.
To operate the machine yourself, you will need the controller located inside the cab and shown in the picture below.
The light comes on, and the platform vibrates. To turn off the red lights but leave the vibrating platform on, press the start/stop button. To turn off everything, hold down the start/stop button. During the entire session, you should hear the voice prompts when you press the buttons. Enjoy the Total Body Enhancement machine!
What to wear in the Total Body Enhancement machine?
Another fundamental question arises when we talk about the use of the Beauty Angel — what to wear in the booth? If you only use the unit for the vibration function, it doesn’t matter what you wear. Just wear your regular gym clothes. If you want to use red light therapy, you must expose the areas you want to work with red light. Red light does not penetrate the clothes, so you need to undress to the swimsuit/underwear in this case.
Fat Burning Device Alternatives
The Total Body Enhancement machine is an excellent weight loss device, but the main disadvantage is that you can use it if you are a member of Fitness Planet. However, many don’t have so much free time to visit it every day and, in addition, the entrance to this gym costs a lot.
If you don’t want or can not go to Fitness Planet for any reason (for example, lack of free time), you should know that there are other ways to get an equal body improvement. For this reason, we offer alternative devices that will help to lose weight, get rid of flaccidity, strengthen muscle tone, and can be used at home.
Californiamicroneedle Lipo-laser machine
Californiamicroneedle Lipo-laser machine
The Californiamicroneedle Lipo Laser Treatment is pain-free, unlike traditional liposuction, which can cause skin discoloration and scarring. Also, this device can be used for all parts of the body that need laser treatment.
Another feature of the Californiamicroneedle lipo laser is its versatility, which manifests itself in treating various skin types, whether light or dark, without worrying about side effects.
PXBF Slimming Belt
PXBF Slimming Belt
PXBF Slimming Belt was one of the most famous slimming devices. Its popularity is due to the unique design that allows users to wear it comfortably while exercising or working without discomfort.
The slimming belt stimulates the area around the navel. This causes your abs to contract, which strains your abdominal muscles and reduces body fat. It also increases your metabolism, which promotes weight loss through exercise, diet, or supplementation.
The belt is made of high-quality ABS material, which makes it safe to use.
Asopal Handheld-Cellulite Massager
Asopal Handheld-Cellulite Massager
The Asopal handheld-cellulite massager is one of the few portable deep tissue cellulite massagers on the market. It has 4 removable massage heads designed to combat fat deposits.
The machine emits high-frequency vibrations that mimic professional massage equipment while having a small ergonomic size that fits in hand. The device is compact and lightweight so that it can be used at any angle on any part of the body (back, hips, legs, arms).
Daily use of the Asopal handheld-cellulite massager will help smooth uneven skin, reduce water retention and improve skin texture.
VOYOR Handheld Massager
VOYOR Handheld Massager
The Voyor handheld massager is the best product for health, beauty, and relaxation. With two special massage heads, the massager can help you quickly cleanse your face, massage your facial muscles and relax your shoulders. Each replacement head is made of imported nylon fiber, which is highly durable.
The Voyor handheld massager is not only effective for relaxing and reducing stress in daily life but also helps you lose weight, remove stretch marks, and get rid of cellulite. For effective results, you need to regularly use the massager after showering to help your cream penetrate deep into your skin and smoothed it.
With its wireless design, it is easy to use and store.
ADVASUN Light Therapy Belt
ADVASUN Light Therapy Belt
The Advasun light therapy belt is a device that penetrates deep into the body using laser radiation therapy (a combination of red and near-infrared light). It promotes metabolism, reduces excess fat, and improves calorie burning during exercise.
The device is universal and can be used on various body parts (back, buttocks, chest, neck, arms, shoulders) that require laser treatment.The Advasun also has a timer shutdown function, which makes the procedure more convenient.
Cocoarm Portable Steam Sauna Spa
Cocoarm Portable Steam Sauna Spa
Cocoarm Portable Steam Sauna Spa is a steam sauna and portable spa in one. It has a large seat that can accommodate two people so that you can enjoy the benefits with your partner, friend, or family member.
The Cocoarm Spa works like an infrared sauna, which creates radiant heat that induces sweating, which ultimately contributes to weight loss. It has a built-in water heater that warms the water to 60˚C (140˚F) and produces steam.The advantage of an infrared sauna is that it is equipped with a digital controller that allows you to regulate the temperature while keeping your body safe.
More information about infrared saunas and their effects on the body — in our article.
Summary
There is no doubt that the Total Body Enhancement, which consists of red light therapy and a vibrating plate, works. The main thing to know is that this unit is not a panacea for everything. It can certainly be used solo, but if you want to see impressive results, the Beauty Angel should work as an element to complement your workouts and proper nutrition. If you follow safety techniques (wearing goggles, making an adjustable number of sessions) and use the device regularly, you will fall in love with it.
FAQs
❓ What is Planet Fitness Total Body Enhancement?
The Total Body Enhancement, also known as Beauty Angel, is a machine that is available at Planet Fitness spa center for Black Card holders. It looks like a tanning bed, but it has completely different functions — it is a booth for red light therapy with a vibration plate. Vibration, combined with red light therapy, promotes the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) or, in other words, energy for cells. Vibrations also train the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and back.
🩳 Do you wear clothes in the Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness?
If you only use the unit for the vibration function, it doesn’t matter what you are wearing. Just wear your regular gym clothes. If you want to use red light therapy, you must expose the areas you want to work with red light. Red light does not penetrate the clothes, so in this case, you need to undress to the swimsuit/underwear.
⌚ How often should you do the Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness?
The manufacturer recommends using Beauty Angel 2-3 times a week for 12 minutes for 90 days, and leave a gap of 24 hours between sessions. According to those who have already tried the unit, the best results are achieved in the period from 8 to 12 weeks.
🔥 Does the Total Body Enhancement burn calories?
Yes, thanks to the Total Body Enhancement machine we have more energy in our cells, this means that with the help of this device we can withstand heavier, energy-consuming workouts. Accordingly, we can exercise even harder and burn more calories and fat.
💎 Is the Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness safe?
Yes, using red light is usually safe, however, there may be minimal side effects: headache, the tension in the eyes, irritability. Therefore, for your safety, when using the Beauty Angel device, you need to wear protective goggles. Also, to avoid overheating and burns, the time allotted for the session should be mediated. In any case, following all instructions will keep you safe from side effects.
Sources
- Steven.E.Roy. NASA Light Technology Successfully Reduces Cancer Patients Painful Side Effects from Radiation and Chemotherapy. – Published online 03.03.11.
- Ron Clijsen, Anina Brunner, Marco Barbero, Peter Clarys, Jan Taeymans. Effects of low-level laser therapy on pain in patients with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. – European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine 2017 August;53(4):603-10. DOI: 10.23736/S1973-9087.17.04432-X.
- Kelly A. Larkin-Kaiser, Ph.D., Evangelos Christou, Ph.D., Mark Tillman, Ph.D., Steven George, Ph.D., PT, and Paul A. Borsa, Ph.D., ATC, FACSM. Near-Infrared Light Therapy to Attenuate Strength Loss After Strenuous Resistance Exercise. – J Athl Train. 2015 Jan; 50(1): 45–50. DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-49.3.82.
- Pinar Avci, MD, Asheesh Gupta, Ph.D., Magesh Sadasivam, MTech, Daniela Vecchio, Ph.D., Zeev Pam, MD, Nadav Pam, MD, and Michael R Hamblin, Ph.D. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. – Semin Cutan Med Surg. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2014 Aug 8. Published in final edited form as Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2013 Mar; 32(1): 41–52.
Can I use oil with Carer Spark? I’d like to use jojoba oil or does it have to be a water-based serum, cream, etc? Thanks!
How long does the weight loss machine take before you see a result?
Are you supposed to use this machine before or after your workout?
The best time to utilize the total body enhancement booth is after completing a workout. One of the key benefits of red light therapy is its ability to naturally enhance the body’s repair processes and alleviate inflammation, making it particularly advantageous following weightlifting or intense cardiovascular exercises.