Table of Contents
- Key Highlights:
- Introduction
- How the partnership translates into the studio: Red Light Classes and wall-mounted mats
- Photobiomodulation 101: How red and near-infrared light affect cells and tissues
- Why pairing red light therapy with heated yoga can amplify recovery
- What students and instructors should expect: class formats, logistics, and outcomes
- Safety, contraindications, and responsible use
- Evidence and limits: what the science supports and where uncertainty remains
- How the rollout fits within broader fitness and wellness trends
- Retail and at-home access: how members can continue recovery beyond the studio
- Voices from the partnership: what industry leaders say
- Locations and rollout: where to try Red Light Classes
- Practical guidance for instructors and studio managers
- Cost, accessibility, and the business case
- The future of recovery in group fitness
- FAQ
Key Highlights:
- CorePower Yoga has partnered with HigherDOSE to introduce Full Body Red Light Mats into select studios, integrating red and near-infrared therapy directly into heated class formats to boost recovery, circulation, and mood.
- The wall-mounted mats deliver clinically studied wavelengths (660 nm red and 850 nm near-infrared) across the body during movement and rest, creating a combined heat-plus-photobiomodulation protocol that targets cellular energy and muscle repair.
- The rollout includes themed Red Light Classes at major urban studios and a curated retail offering for members seeking at-home recovery tools, while prompting questions around dosing, safety, and evidence-based application.
Introduction
A mainstream yoga brand has taken a visible step toward blending spa-grade recovery technology with high-intensity group fitness. CorePower Yoga, the largest studio chain in the United States, announced a partnership with HigherDOSE to install Full Body Red Light Mats on studio walls and program “Red Light Classes” that immerse students in red and near-infrared light during heated sessions. The initiative pulls together two recovery trends — infrared/red light photobiomodulation and heat-based exercise — into a single studio experience designed to carry a student from exertion into restoration without interruption.
The move signals more than a new class category. It highlights a shift in how fitness operators think about post-exertion recovery as an active part of the workout, not an optional add-on. For students, the promise is clear: improved circulation, reduced muscle soreness, and a potential mood lift at the cellular level. For the industry, the partnership demonstrates how portable, med‑spa–grade technology is moving into fitness footprints, driven by demand for measurable recovery and convenience.
This article explains how the Red Light Classes work, summarizes the science behind red and near-infrared light therapy, outlines what students can expect in practice, examines safety and evidence considerations, and situates the collaboration within broader wellness and fitness trends. Where useful, real-world examples and practical guidance are provided so teachers, studio managers, and students can make informed decisions about integrating photobiomodulation into their routines.
How the partnership translates into the studio: Red Light Classes and wall-mounted mats
CorePower’s intervention is straightforward in design and ambitious in intent. Rather than offering small facial masks or single-panel devices, the collaboration installs HigherDOSE Full Body Red Light Mats on studio walls, creating a broad, enveloping field of light that bathes practitioners during movement and in moments of restoration.
What the mats deliver
- Dual wavelengths: 660 nm red light and 850 nm near-infrared (NIR) light. The combination targets both superficial tissues (skin, subdermal layers) via red light and deeper structures (muscle, joint tissues) via NIR.
- Wide-beam coverage: Mat arrays are configured to cover large body surface areas, enabling full-body exposure without the need for static positioning directly against a panel.
- Customizable session lengths: Class instructors can program short bursts of exposure during transitions or longer sessions during the cooldown and restorative portions of class.
Where they’re being used CorePower plans to integrate Red Light Classes primarily within heat-forward formats: CorePower Yoga 2 (heated Power Flow), Hot Power Fusion, and CoreRestore. These formats already incorporate elevated temperatures to increase pliability, sweat, and cardiovascular demand. Adding red/NIR aims to support the physiological processes initiated by heat, especially in the recovery window following intense movement.
The student experience Classes will include moments when the mats are activated to coincide with transitions into restorative poses or during standing sequences when the body can receive diffuse exposure while moving. The design allows continued movement — stillness is not required to receive therapeutic doses. Students will feel studio heat together with the warm glow of red light across the skin, an experience that blends the somatic calm of yoga with the clinical vibe of a med-spa treatment.
Why wall-mounted mats rather than handheld devices Wall-mounted, wide-beam mats address limitations associated with smaller devices. Face masks or point-source panels concentrate energy on a tiny area, requiring stillness and precise positioning. Wide mats provide even exposure from head to toe, reduce barriers to use in a group setting, and enable instructors to maintain class flow while students receive a recovery-aimed intervention.
Photobiomodulation 101: How red and near-infrared light affect cells and tissues
The therapeutic effects of red and near-infrared light derive from photobiomodulation, the process by which specific light wavelengths interact with cellular chromophores to influence biological functions. The most discussed intracellular target is cytochrome c oxidase, a component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain.
Key mechanisms
- Mitochondrial stimulation: Red and NIR light can be absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores, particularly cytochrome c oxidase. Absorption may enhance enzyme activity, promoting increased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production and improving cellular energy availability.
- Nitric oxide modulation: Photobiomodulation can trigger the release of nitric oxide from intracellular stores, supporting vasodilation and improved blood flow to treated tissues.
- Reactive oxygen species and signaling: Controlled production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can trigger adaptive cellular signaling, potentially upregulating repair and anti-inflammatory pathways.
- Gene expression changes: Exposure may influence transcriptional activity linked to tissue repair, antioxidant defenses, and inflammatory mediators.
Wavelength and penetration
- Red light (~630–680 nm) is absorbed relatively superficially, effective for skin, subdermal tissues, and shallow muscle layers.
- Near-infrared (typically 800–900 nm, with many devices at 830–850 nm) penetrates more deeply into muscle and joint tissues. The combined use of red and NIR seeks to target both superficial and deep structures.
Dose matters Clinical outcomes depend on irradiance (power per unit area), total energy delivered (fluence), exposure time, and treatment frequency. Effective protocols vary by condition and target tissue. Delivering too little energy produces no effect; too much may reduce efficacy. This dose-response relationship underscores the need for device manufacturers and studio operators to calibrate sessions against established clinical parameters.
What studies show Clinical research includes trials in tissue healing, pain reduction, reduced muscle soreness, and improved circulation. Evidence favors benefits for localized musculoskeletal conditions and certain dermatological applications. Studies on athletic recovery indicate reduced markers of muscle damage and perceived soreness when photobiomodulation is applied pre- or post-exercise. Researchers emphasize consistent dosing and standardized outcome measures to advance the field.
Limitations and gaps Heterogeneity in study designs — variable wavelengths, irradiances, and treatment schedules — produces mixed results across conditions. Comparative studies and large randomized controlled trials remain limited for many claims circulating in consumer markets. Nonetheless, a growing body of mechanistic evidence and clinical trials supports targeted use within evidence-based parameters.
Why pairing red light therapy with heated yoga can amplify recovery
Heated yoga drives specific physiological responses: increased tissue temperature, elevated heart rate, profuse sweating, and enhanced metabolic demand. Photobiomodulation can complement these processes through distinct mechanisms that converge on recovery and resilience.
Enhanced circulation and nutrient delivery Heat induces peripheral vasodilation. When combined with red/NIR exposure — which promotes nitric oxide release and further vasodilation — tissue perfusion increases. Improved blood flow accelerates delivery of oxygen and nutrients and facilitates removal of metabolic byproducts such as lactate. For students finishing a vigorous flow, this combined effect may shorten the time needed for muscle recovery.
Support for cellular energy and repair Heated movement stresses muscle fibers. Photobiomodulation can support mitochondrial function at the cellular level, promoting ATP production that fuels repair processes. This suggests a rationale for activating mats during or immediately after intense work when tissues demand enhanced energy and recovery signaling.
Mood and autonomic regulation Heat exposure and breathwork used in yoga both influence the autonomic nervous system, and red/NIR exposure has been associated with modulation of neurochemical pathways tied to mood and arousal. Putting these elements together creates a restoration-focused window where students transition from sympathetic activation (exercise) to parasympathetic recovery (cooldown and relaxation).
Real-world comparison: recovery lounges and athlete protocols High-performance athletes commonly layer recovery modalities — compression, cryotherapy, massage, and light therapy — to accelerate return-to-play. CorePower’s approach adapts that layered model to a group class format: exercise followed by a targeted recovery modality in the same session. The logic mirrors athlete recovery stations at training facilities, scaled for everyday practitioners.
What students and instructors should expect: class formats, logistics, and outcomes
Classroom implementation will vary by studio, but several common elements will likely appear across CorePower’s rollout.
Typical class flow
- Warm-up and movement: The class begins with dynamic movement in a heated environment to increase temperature and heart rate.
- Targeted exposures: Instructors activate wall mats at planned points — for instance, during sequences of standing poses, inversions, or transitional flows — to provide supplemental photobiomodulation while students continue moving.
- Restorative integration: Longer mat sessions occur during the cooldown or restorative sequences, allowing students to lie back or assume gentle poses while receiving extended red/NIR exposure.
- Optionality: Students not ready to receive light exposure — those sensitive to light, wearing photosensitizing medications, or preferring lower sensory environments — can choose standard classes or opt out of mat zones.
Expected sensations and short-term effects Students describe a warm, gentle glow on exposed skin. During and after class, many report reduced muscle stiffness, less perceived soreness, and an enhanced sense of relaxation. Some students notice a mood lift that may stem from neurochemical shifts linked to light exposure and the combined effects of heat and mindful breathing.
Session length and dosing considerations Effective sessions depend on irradiance and exposure time. Many in-clinic and at-home protocols use sessions from 5 to 20 minutes per area, but whole-body protocols vary. CorePower’s mats are designed with customizable session lengths, enabling studios to set exposure durations aligned with manufacturer recommendations and class flow.
Practical tips for students
- Hydrate thoroughly before and after heated classes combined with red light exposure.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows light to reach the skin where appropriate.
- Communicate with instructors about any medical conditions or medications that may influence sensitivity to light.
- Try a short exposure at first to assess tolerance and subjective benefit.
Instructor training and class design Instructors should receive training on the mats’ operation, recommended session durations, contraindications, and guest communication. Class scripts can include clear cues for when mats will be activated and options for students who prefer to avoid exposure.
Safety, contraindications, and responsible use
Red and near-infrared light therapy has a favorable safety profile when used according to manufacturer guidance. Nonetheless, responsible deployment requires adherence to contraindications and awareness of potential interactions.
Common contraindications and precautions
- Photosensitizing medications: Certain drugs increase sensitivity to light. Students taking photosensitizing agents should consult a healthcare provider before exposure.
- Pregnancy: Research is limited regarding safety of whole-body photobiomodulation in pregnancy. Pregnant individuals should seek guidance from their healthcare provider.
- Active malignancies: While photobiomodulation is generally considered low-risk, those with active cancers should consult oncologists regarding full-body exposure.
- Implanted electronic devices: People with pacemakers or certain implanted devices should check device manufacturer guidance or consult a clinician.
- Eye protection: Direct retinal exposure to high-intensity light may pose a risk. Devices typically design beams to avoid direct eye exposure, but instructors should confirm manufacturer safety features and encourage students to close their eyes or use protective eyewear if recommended.
Operational safeguards for studios
- Staff training: Studios must train staff on safe operation, recommended exposure times, emergency protocols, and client screening.
- Clear disclosure: Class descriptions should state that red light mats will be used and note any known contraindications or suggested precautions.
- Opt-out pathways: Students should easily access classes without red light exposure and have seating or mats placed in areas less affected by wall-mounted devices.
- Maintenance and calibration: Studios should maintain devices per manufacturer instructions and monitor irradiance to ensure consistent dosing over time.
Addressing overuse and unrealistic expectations Therapies can be oversold. Photobiomodulation supports certain recovery and repair processes, but it is not a panacea. Studios should present realistic expectations: the technology can complement movement and other recovery strategies but works best when used within evidence-based protocols and as part of a broader regimen that includes rest, nutrition, and gradual progression.
Evidence and limits: what the science supports and where uncertainty remains
Clinical literature on red and near-infrared light therapy is growing, and early results are promising in several areas. However, the field faces methodological variability that tempers claims about universal efficacy.
Where evidence is strongest
- Localized musculoskeletal pain and wound healing: Several randomized trials report benefits for certain pain syndromes and improved soft-tissue healing.
- Athletic recovery markers: Studies show reductions in perceived soreness, inflammatory markers, and biomarkers of muscle damage when light therapy is applied pre- or post-exercise.
- Dermatological effects: Red light has demonstrated capacity to support collagen production and skin quality in clinical aesthetic protocols.
Where more data are needed
- Whole-body protocols: Many clinical trials test localized treatment areas. Research on consistent, whole-body dosing strategies appropriate for group exposure is less developed.
- Optimal dosing standards: Studies use varying irradiances, wavelengths, session lengths, and frequencies. Consensus on optimal dosing for specific outcomes would improve comparability.
- Long-term outcomes: Longitudinal data on repeated whole-body exposure in fitness contexts remains limited.
Interpreting consumer and clinical claims Device manufacturers and wellness operators often present photobiomodulation benefits in compelling terms. Consumers should evaluate claims against clinical endpoints and inquire about device specifications: wavelength, irradiance (mW/cm²), treatment time, and recommended frequency. These metrics determine dose and underlie potential efficacy.
How the rollout fits within broader fitness and wellness trends
CorePower’s collaboration with HigherDOSE reflects several converging market forces.
From boutique recovery to group-fit integration Recovery technologies — cryotherapy, infrared saunas, percussive therapy, compression systems, and light therapy — started as niche treatments in luxury wellness centers. Operators now move these tools into everyday fitness environments to attract members who want performance benefits without seeking out separate facilities.
Consumer demand for measurable outcomes Members increasingly expect fitness experiences to deliver measurable improvements in recovery, performance, and wellbeing. Photobiomodulation offers a quantifiable intervention that studios can package into membership offerings or premium classes.
Biohacking enters mainstream fitness HigherDOSE markets biohacking tools to consumers seeking self-directed enhancement of energy, mood, and recovery. Brands like CorePower bridge the gap between targeted consumer biohacking devices and accessible, instructor-led group programming.
Competitive positioning for studios Offering recovery technology differentiates studios in competitive urban markets. For CorePower, the partnership strengthens its reputation as a brand that layers mindful practice with performance-oriented amenities.
Parallel examples
- High-end gyms and athletic facilities incorporate cryotherapy chambers and infrared saunas alongside strength and conditioning equipment.
- Professional sports teams use targeted photobiomodulation to support athlete recovery, influencing consumer acceptance of these modalities.
Retail and at-home access: how members can continue recovery beyond the studio
CorePower also curated a line of HigherDOSE products on its Shop site and in select studios. The assortment ranges from full-body mats and infrared sauna blankets to smaller items such as red light face masks, topical recovery aids, and tools that support relaxation rituals.
Products available through CorePower
- Full Body Red Light Mat: The same technology used in-studio, scaled for at-home use.
- Infrared Sauna Blanket: A portable way to receive infrared heat benefits without a dedicated sauna room.
- Red Light Face Mask: Targeted facial photobiomodulation for skin health.
- Supporting wellness essentials: Soaking salts, body brushes, topical oils, and transdermal magnesium sprays.
Practical considerations for at-home devices
- Match clinical parameters: Consumers should check product specifications — wavelength, irradiance, and suggested session times — and align expectations with device capabilities.
- Consider space and ventilation: Infrared blankets and mats can raise body temperature; adequate airflow and hydration remain important.
- Budget and durability: Home versions vary widely in price and longevity. Users should weigh upfront cost against expected usage and replacement timelines.
How retail augments in-studio programming Retail access enables students to extend benefits outside the studio and supports brand loyalty. It also offers revenue diversification for studios aiming to monetize both services and products.
Voices from the partnership: what industry leaders say
HigherDOSE co-founder and co-CEO Lauren Berlingeri frames the collaboration as an additive measure: “Yoga creates openness and awareness in the body, and red light and infrared help support that work. I’m thrilled to bring the power of red light into a unique, fitness-forward setting where the benefits can be stacked together.” Her view emphasizes the synergy between mindful movement and technology-driven recovery.
CorePower’s Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer Sarah Choi highlights performance and recovery benefits: “Physically intense movement and active recovery are at the core of everything we do. By introducing red-light technology, we’re giving our students another way to enhance recovery, boost performance, and get even more out of every class.” The statement positions the technology as a tool to deepen the value proposition of CorePower’s classes.
Both comments underscore a broader strategic intent: integrate clinically inspired recovery into a mainstream fitness routine without disrupting class flow or the communal aspect of studio practice.
Locations and rollout: where to try Red Light Classes
CorePower’s initial rollout focuses on select urban studios, offering access across major US markets. Participating locations include:
- New York: NoMad
- San Francisco: Cow Hollow
- Los Angeles (North): Sherman Oaks
- Los Angeles (South): Manhattan Beach
- San Diego: La Costa
- Orange County: Huntington Beach
- Boston: Fenway
- Denver: Cherry Hills
- Austin: Triangle
- Miami: Brickell
Students can find class schedules and red light-themed events on CorePower’s content pages or studio-specific booking platforms. Expect rollout expansion to follow demand, operational feasibility, and ongoing evaluation of student outcomes.
Practical guidance for instructors and studio managers
Implementing red light technology in a studio requires intentional planning.
Operational checklist
- Manufacturer training: Ensure staff understand device operation, maintenance, and safety protocols.
- Class design templates: Create scripts that integrate mat activation into transitions and restorative windows.
- Client screening forms: Add discrete questions about photosensitizing medications, pregnancy status, and medical devices to booking flows or check-ins.
- Signage and disclosure: Post visible notices about mat usage and recommended precautions in studio spaces and class descriptions.
- Data collection: Consider short surveys to collect member feedback on perceived recovery, soreness, and satisfaction to inform program refinement.
Marketing and member communication
- Educate rather than oversell: Present photobiomodulation as a recovery tool with evidence-backed potential, not a cure-all.
- Offer trial classes: Provide discounted or introductory Red Light Classes to lower barriers to adoption and gather early feedback.
- Bundle options: Create recovery-focused packages that combine classes, retail items, and limited-time access to mats.
Evaluating outcomes Measure member retention, class attendance, and subjective recovery metrics. If possible, collaborate with local researchers or use wearable data (heart rate variability, sleep tracking) with member consent to evaluate physiological changes. Data will guide decisions about expansion and protocol adjustments.
Cost, accessibility, and the business case
Studio-level adoption involves capital expenditure and operational adjustments. HigherDOSE mats are med-spa–grade devices; cost considerations include purchase price, installation, maintenance, and staff training.
Monetization strategies
- Premium class pricing: Charge a modest premium for Red Light Classes or offer them as part of a higher-tier membership.
- Retail sales: Sell at-home devices and accessories in-studio or through online shops.
- Partnerships and sponsorships: Explore local brand collaborations or pilot programs that provide offset costs in exchange for marketing exposure.
Accessibility considerations While advanced devices enhance studio offerings, the cost may limit access for some members. Community-focused programming can preserve inclusion: for instance, scheduling a mix of standard and Red Light Classes, offering periodic community classes with reduced or no additional fees, and providing transparent pricing.
The future of recovery in group fitness
CorePower’s rollout is an indicator of a broader trend: studios will increasingly think about recovery as a programmed, scalable part of their offerings. Expect to see:
- Integrated recovery loops: Movement, targeted recovery tech, and education delivered in a single session.
- Greater device standardization: As demand grows, manufacturers and industry bodies will move toward clearer dosing and safety guidelines.
- Evidence-driven programming: Studios that rigorously evaluate outcomes will differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
This progression will benefit students looking for measurable returns on time spent in class and operators aiming to deliver distinctive, science-informed experiences.
FAQ
Q: What is the Full Body Red Light Mat and what wavelengths does it use? A: The Full Body Red Light Mat is a wall-mounted device designed for whole-body exposure. It emits dual wavelengths: red light at approximately 660 nm and near-infrared light at 850 nm. The combined wavelengths target superficial and deeper tissues to support cellular energy, circulation, and recovery.
Q: Which CorePower classes will include red light exposure? A: Red Light Classes will primarily be woven into CorePower Yoga 2 (heated Power Flow), Hot Power Fusion, and CoreRestore formats. Integration may vary by studio and class schedule.
Q: Do I have to stay still to receive the benefits? A: No. The wall-mounted mats provide wide-beam coverage that bathes the body during movement. Instructors will time exposures during transitions and restorative segments, so students can remain fluid or rest as they prefer.
Q: How long will sessions last and how often should I use them? A: Session length will vary by studio and class design. Effective photobiomodulation depends on irradiance and total energy delivered; typical clinical exposures range from 5 to 20 minutes per area. Studios configure session duration per manufacturer guidance. For ongoing benefits, regular use aligned with training load and recovery needs is advisable.
Q: Are there any safety concerns or contraindications? A: Precautions include photosensitizing medications, pregnancy, active malignancies, and certain implanted electronic devices. Eye protection and manufacturer safety features mitigate retinal exposure risks. Students should notify staff of any medical conditions and can opt out of classes or choose non-exposed areas.
Q: Will this technology replace other recovery modalities like stretching, massage, or sleep? A: No single modality replaces a holistic recovery strategy. Photobiomodulation complements heat, movement, nutrition, sleep, and manual therapies. It can accelerate certain cellular and vascular processes but works best as one component of a comprehensive recovery plan.
Q: How is this different from red light face masks or small panels? A: Face masks and handheld panels concentrate energy on small, specific regions and typically require stillness. Full-body mats offer wide coverage, enabling whole-body exposure during movement and longer, consistent treatments without repositioning.
Q: Can I buy a HigherDOSE mat for home use? A: Yes. CorePower’s Shop offers select HigherDOSE products, including the Full Body Red Light Mat and Infrared Sauna Blanket, along with smaller recovery tools. Home devices vary in specifications, so compare wavelength and irradiance metrics against the in-studio units.
Q: Does insurance cover red light therapy? A: Coverage depends on the medical indication and insurer. Many wellness and fitness-related uses are not covered by standard health insurance. People using photobiomodulation for specific clinical conditions should consult their healthcare provider and insurer.
Q: How can studios measure whether the technology is delivering value? A: Studios can gather member feedback on soreness, perceived recovery, mood, and class satisfaction. If members consent, wearable data (sleep quality, heart rate variability) can track physiological changes. Attendance patterns, retention, and retail sales also serve as business signals.
Q: Where can I try a Red Light Class? A: Initially, Red Light Classes are available at select CorePower locations including NoMad (New York), Cow Hollow (San Francisco), Sherman Oaks and Manhattan Beach (Los Angeles), La Costa (San Diego), Huntington Beach (Orange County), Fenway (Boston), Cherry Hills (Denver), Triangle (Austin), and Brickell (Miami). Check CorePower’s studio schedules or event pages for current offerings and booking details.
Q: Is there scientific consensus supporting whole-body red light therapy in fitness settings? A: Evidence supports specific benefits of photobiomodulation for localized pain, skin conditions, and athletic recovery in controlled settings. Research on whole-body, group-based protocols is developing. Proper dosing and consistent application are important for replicable outcomes.
Q: Should instructors receive special training? A: Yes. Instructors should be trained on device operation, session planning, safety protocols, client screening, and how to communicate benefits and limitations to members.
Q: How does the light interact with sweating and heated conditions? A: Heat and photobiomodulation act through complementary mechanisms. Heat increases blood flow and tissue pliability; red/NIR promotes mitochondrial function and additional vasodilation. Sweating does not reduce the effectiveness of the light but instructors should ensure hydration and monitor student comfort.
Q: What should I do if I feel unwell during a Red Light Class? A: Inform the instructor immediately and move to a designated low-exposure area if needed. Sit or lie down, cool down, hydrate, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Q: Will every student notice benefits? A: Individual responses vary. Factors include baseline fitness, tissue condition, frequency of exposure, and whether other recovery strategies are in place. Many students report reduced soreness and improved relaxation; others may notice subtler changes that accumulate over repeated sessions.
Q: Are there long-term risks? A: Current evidence suggests a favorable safety profile when devices are used according to manufacturer guidelines. Longitudinal studies of repeated whole-body exposure in fitness contexts are limited, underlining the importance of adhering to recommended doses and ongoing monitoring.
The CorePower–HigherDOSE partnership represents a practical evolution of recovery culture: med‑spa technologies moving into everyday fitness to provide accessible, session-based restoration. For practitioners, the integration promises an efficient pathway from exertion to repair. For studios, it provides a differentiated product that aligns with growing consumer interest in measurable recovery. Students and operators who approach the technology with clear expectations, respect for dosing, and attention to safety will find it a valuable addition to the modern movement and recovery toolkit.