Benefits of PBM
Published on
May 24, 2025
Photobiomodulation and Sports: Optimizing Performance and Recovery
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is increasingly being used by elite athletes, professional sports teams, and amateur athletes. By stimulating cells with red and infrared light, it acts as a natural catalyst for muscle recovery, performance enhancement, and the reduction of post-workout pain.
Why include PBM in a sports training program?
- Faster muscle recovery (up to twice as fast)
- Reduction in muscle soreness and pain
- Reduced risk of injury (anti-inflammatory effect)
- Improved sleep and energy levels
- Regulation of exercise-induced oxidative stress
- Optimization of ATP production (the cell's energy source)
How do I use it?
- Before exercise: to prepare the muscles, improve flexibility and oxygenation
- After exercise: to flush out toxins, reduce soreness, and regenerate tissue
- Frequency: 3 to 5 sessions per week, depending on the training volume
- Duration: 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the area and the device's power
Recommended devices for athletes
- Large-format LED panels: for the back, legs, and torso
- Wearable devices: for the knee, ankle, shoulder, and wrist
- Full-body LED cabins: for systemic recovery
Good to know
Staying hydrated, breathing deeply, and relaxing your muscles before and during the session increase the effectiveness of PBM.
For sports medicine professionals
- Interest in physical conditioning, rehabilitation, and pain management
- Shorter recovery times following injury
- Improving the training intensity-to-rest period ratio
- Non-invasive treatment without medication
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the concrete benefits for athletes?
Less pain, faster recovery, sustained performance, and a reduced risk of injury.
Can you use PBM right after exercise?
Yes, it's actually recommended. Post-workout PBM helps reduce inflammation and speed up the elimination of metabolic waste.
What is the ideal frequency for sessions?
During periods of intense training: 3 to 5 times a week. For maintenance or prevention: 2 to 3 times a week is sufficient.
Scientific sources cited
- Leal-Junior E.C. et al. (2015) – PBM and exercise performance recovery – PubMed
→ Demonstrates the effects on post-exercise muscle recovery. - Ferraresi C. et al. (2012) – PBM improves performance and prevents muscle damage – PubMed
→ Confirms the preventive and energy-boosting effects of light on muscle cells. - De Marchi T. et al. (2017) – Effect of LED therapy on muscle fatigue and soreness – PubMed
→ Shows a reduction in muscle soreness and pain following red LED therapy. - Zhevago N.A., Samoilova K.A. (2006) – Effect of visible light on whole-body physiology – PubMed
→ Examines the systemic effects of light on performance and overall metabolism.
See also
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