Ever wondered what helps top athletes stay at the peak of their game? Some Black Ferns Sevens players are turning to red light therapy, a holistic health treatment making waves in sports performance and recovery.
At Gaia Wellness and Recovery, we’ve seen firsthand how red light therapy is revolutionising the way athletes recover and perform. Recently, we had the pleasure of chatting with two of New Zealand’s Black Ferns Sevens players, Michaela Blyde and Tyla King, who shared their incredible experiences with us.
Meet the athletes
Michaela Blyde is a dynamic winger who has always dreamt of competing in the Olympic Games. “When I started playing rugby in 2012, I saw the potential to achieve my dream, so I went for it!” she shares. For Michaela, recovery is paramount. “Recovery is more important than the training itself. You don’t get the gains unless you recover properly, which is why I love red light therapy!”
Tyla King grew up in a sporting family and has a passion for all oval ball codes. “Recovery, rehab, and game prep are extremely important to get the body in the best shape to perform and do our job on the field,” she explains.
Discovering Red Light Therapy
Michaela was introduced to red light therapy by Gaia Wellness and Recovery owner Ange, who messaged her on Instagram. “I started using it frequently in March 2024. I’m always open to trying new recovery tools, and red light was something I was very keen to try.” Michaela now uses red light therapy 4-5 times a week. “It’s compulsory for me now as I instantly feel the difference when I don’t use it. I feel more fatigued when I don’t have a session.”
Tyla discovered red light therapy through a teammate who brought her to Gaia Wellness and Recovery after a long tournament. “I try to get in at least one session a week, more if possible. I fit it around my training sessions or on my recovery days.”
The benefits of Red Light Therapy
Both athletes have noticed significant health benefits from incorporating red light therapy into their routines. Michaela highlights the decrease in fatigue during her training week.
“I don’t feel sluggish at the end of the week and feel like I can get up every training day. I’ve been able to train hard each day after using red light therapy without going backward.” She also notes a significant increase in her energy levels. “As soon as I leave the red light pod, I feel more awake and energetic.”
Tyla has experienced a different set of benefits. “Red light therapy gives me a space to fully relax and ease my mind from my busy day,” she says. She has also noticed a reduction in skin breakouts during her menstrual cycle and finds that she can wind down faster at night and get to sleep more easily.
Why Red Light Therapy works
Red light therapy is a natural health treatment that works by exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light. This non-invasive treatment penetrates the skin and stimulates cellular repair and regeneration. The result? Reduced inflammation, improved muscle recovery, and enhanced overall health and well-being.
Michaela explains, “It’s a very easy recovery tool that helps reduce fatigue and allows you to repair your muscles without doing anything.” Tyla adds, “For me, it’s a why not. Why not give something a go and see if it works for you? Especially as an athlete, any little edge you can get to help performance or you as a person is worth a try.”
Join the revolution
Whether you’re a pro athlete or just looking to feel your best, red light therapy might be your new holistic health secret weapon for performance and well-being.
Ready to discover the benefits firsthand?
Give red light therapy a go at Gaia Wellness and Recovery, Papamoa today.
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