Red Light Therapy in St. Albert: What It Is, What to Expect, and Common Questions

Red light therapy has moved from professional sports recovery rooms into wellness studios, and Afitness Pilates offers it alongside our reformer and hot classes in St. Albert. Because it is still new to many people, we get a lot of questions about what it is, what it does, and whether it is worth adding to a workout routine. This guide answers the most common ones.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy, sometimes called photobiomodulation or low level light therapy, exposes the skin to specific wavelengths of red and near infrared light. These wavelengths are absorbed by cells in the skin and underlying tissue. The light is not ultraviolet, it does not tan or burn, and it does not produce the intense heat of a sauna. A session involves sitting or standing in front of a panel of LEDs for a set period, usually 10 to 20 minutes.

What is red light therapy used for?

People use red light therapy for a range of goals. The most common reasons our members book sessions are:

• Muscle recovery and reduced soreness after training

• Skin health, including tone, texture, and the appearance of fine lines

• Joint comfort and stiffness

• General relaxation and a sense of wellbeing

Research on red light therapy is ongoing. Some studies show promising results for skin, muscle recovery, and certain types of pain, while others are small or inconclusive. We present red light as a wellness and recovery tool, not a medical treatment, and encourage anyone with a health condition to speak to their physician first.

Does red light therapy help with muscle recovery?

This is the most popular reason our members use it. Several studies suggest that red and near infrared light applied before or after exercise may reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and support recovery, likely by improving cellular energy production and circulation in the treated tissue. Many of our members schedule a session after a reformer or hot class and report feeling less sore the following day. Individual results vary.

Does red light therapy help skin?

Red light in the 600 to 700 nanometre range is the most studied for skin. It is widely used in aesthetic settings for improving skin tone, supporting collagen, and reducing the appearance of fine lines with consistent use over weeks and months. It is not a substitute for sun protection or dermatological care.

Is red light therapy safe?

For most healthy adults, red light therapy is considered low risk. It does not use ultraviolet light and does not damage the skin the way tanning does. Eye protection or keeping your eyes closed is recommended when facing bright panels. People who are pregnant, who have a photosensitivity condition, who take medications that increase light sensitivity, or who have a history of skin cancer should consult a physician before use.

What does a session feel like?

Warm and calm. You will feel gentle warmth on the skin from the panel and most people find the session relaxing. There is no pain, no downtime, and you can go straight back to your day or into a class afterwards.

How often should I do red light therapy?

Consistency matters more than session length. Most protocols suggest three to five sessions per week for several weeks to notice changes in skin or recovery, then a maintenance schedule of a few sessions per week. A single session will not produce lasting results.

What should I wear?

Light reaches only exposed skin, so wear as little as you are comfortable with for the area you want to treat. Remove makeup and heavy lotions from the face before a skin focused session.

Can I combine red light therapy with Pilates?

Yes, and this is how most of our members use it. A session before class may help you feel looser, and a session after class may support recovery. Booking it right before or after a reformer or hot class is the easiest way to be consistent.

How do I book red light therapy at Afitness?

Red light therapy sessions are booked through Momence, the same platform used for all Afitness classes. Current pricing and availability are listed there. If you have questions about whether red light is suitable for you, email info@afitness.ca or ask at the studio.

Where is red light therapy available in St. Albert?

Afitness Pilates is a women only studio at 20 Circle Drive, Unit 10, St. Albert, on the second floor above Adam Physio and Wellness. We serve women from St. Albert, north Edmonton, Sturgeon County, and Morinville.

Book your first class at Afitness

New to Afitness? Try one week of unlimited hot classes for $29 or one week of unlimited reformer for $59. Check the live schedule and the studio policy before you arrive. Afitness Pilates is a women only reformer and hot Pilates studio at 20 Circle Drive, Unit 10, St. Albert, Alberta, on the second floor above Adam Physio and Wellness. Email info@afitness.ca or follow @afitnesspilates on Instagram.

Related reading: pricing guide, first class guide, and reformer Pilates guide.