As a runner, you're always looking for ways to improve your performance and avoid injury. But have you heard of infrared therapy? Infrared products have recently been highlighted by publications like Runner's World for their potential benefits to post-workout recovery. Active.com recently featured an article specifically about infrared saunas, and their potential benefits for recovery. These innovative treatments use infrared radiation to help increase blood flow, reduce pain and inflammation, and even improve skin health. Infrared therapy is gaining popularity among athletes as a way to boost their training and recovery, and it's easy to see why. With so many potential benefits, it's worth taking a closer look at what infrared therapy can do for you.
WHAT IS INFRARED THERAPY
Infrared therapy is gaining popularity among athletes as a means to improve performance and aid in recovery. Infrared radiation is a type of energy that is emitted as heat and is absorbed by the body. It can penetrate the skin and affect the underlying tissues, leading to a range of benefits.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF INFRARED
One of the main benefits of infrared therapy for athletes is improved local circulation. Infrared radiation helps to increase local blood flow to muscles, which may improve local oxygenation and nutrient delivery.
In addition to improving circulation, infrared therapy may also help to reduce pain and inflammation. Some studies have suggested that exposure to infrared radiation can stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory molecules and reduce levels of pain-causing substances in the body. This may be particularly beneficial for athletes dealing with chronic pain or injuries, as was suggested by a 2019 study specifically on chronic low back pain.
HOW INFRARED CAN BE HELPFUL FOR RUNNERS
There are a number of different ways that athletes can incorporate infrared therapy into their training and recovery routines. One option is to use infrared saunas or heating pads, which can provide targeted heat therapy to specific areas of the body. Another option is to use light-emitting diode (LED) therapy, which uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes. And if you haven't yet heard of new KT Tape Pro Oxygen, made with embedded Celliant minerals which convert body heat into full-spectrum infrared energy (benefits where tape is applied), you are missing out!
Overall, infrared therapy may offer a range of benefits for athletes looking to improve their performance and recovery. Whether used in conjunction with other recovery techniques or as a standalone treatment, infrared therapy is a promising option for athletes looking to take their training to the next level.
