Recovery Discovery

The fitness space is flooded with products, potions and protocols promising to optimize your recovery from training. See what science has to say about some of the most popular applications.

- By Jenessa Connor

If your idea of recovery consists of a few halfhearted stretches and a hot shower, it’s time to level up. Here are 10 of-the-moment practices to help revamp your recovery routine and speed along your progress.

RED LIGHT THERAPY (aka photobiomodulation)

The theory behind this practice is that low-level wavelengths of red light penetrate the skin and supercharge the mitochondria, which, according to a study published in Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, enables them to produce more energy. A review of research published in AIMS Biophysics also reported that regular use of RLT can help reduce inflammation, speed muscle recovery, promote quality sleep and even clear up skin issues such as acne, rosacea and wrinkles — all from passively standing in front of a light. However, other experts believe that the benefits of RLT are exaggerated, and a systematic review of 11 studies concluded that while at-home devices are likely safe, additional research is needed to evaluate their true efficacy and worth.

The take-away: Red light therapy probably won’t hurt you, and you may even see some benefits. But a personal-use unit can be pricy, so consider your budget before Amazoning it.

BUYER’S CHOICE

Joovv Go 2.0

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