Mitchell Hooper may be the most deliberate athlete in strongman today. Indeed, the Canadian has already won three Arnold Strongman Classic titles. More importantly, he has reached the podium in 24 consecutive contests. Now, he’s applying that same precision to recovery. In mid-May 2025, Hooper revealed why red light therapy is a game-changer for him.

Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses red and near-infrared wavelengths. Specifically, it works by stimulating the mitochondria inside cells. As a result, ATP production increases while reactive oxygen species decrease. Therefore, this therapy aims to improve tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and enhance cellular energy.

Notably, Hooper sees it as a critical part of his recovery routine. In fact, he believes it supports both performance and long-term health. He highlighted a wide range of potential benefits.

“[Red light therapy] is used for acne, scarring, wound healing, skin health, muscle recovery, inflammation, and brain health.” — Mitchell Hooper

However, the research is still catching up. So far, clinical studies show it’s safe for treating acne and some skin issues. Even so, scientists remain cautious about its effectiveness for broader uses like muscle recovery or brain health.

 

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Why Red Light Therapy Is a Game-Changer for Mitchell Hooper

Hooper is not the only former World’s Strongest Man who trusts red light therapy. In fact, 2017 champion Eddie Hall also swears by it. Moreover, Hall told Hooper that while each method may add only one percent, those small gains combine. Consequently, this could help Hooper reach his goal of a 505-kilogram deadlift.

To illustrate, five percent of 475 kilograms is about 24 or 25 kilos. Therefore, that small increase could push him past the 500-kilogram mark.

Importantly, Hooper tested four products to find one delivering the 1064nm wavelength. This wavelength is crucial because it penetrates the deepest muscle tissue. After a month of use, he described his progress as “off the charts” while preparing for the 2025 WSM.

During this period, Hooper achieved a 225-pound Circus Dumbbell lift. Additionally, he completed deadlifts and squats at 705 pounds for 10 reps. He also pressed 405 pounds behind the neck.

Interestingly, while under the red lights, Hooper noticed more heat in his injured hip. He then felt an improvement in his range of motion and recovery.

“I feel like my range of motion has increased, and my recovery is improved when I use the red light therapy.”
— Mitchell Hooper

Watch Mitchell Hooper The Truth About Red Light Therapy (Backed by Science):

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References

1. Padoin, S., Zeffa, A. C., Molina Corrêa, J. C., de Angelis, T. R., Moreira, T. B., Barazetti, L. K., & de Paula Ramos, S. (2022). Phototherapy Improves Muscle Recovery and Does Not Impair Repeated Bout Effect in Plyometric Exercise. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 36(12), 3301–3310. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003895
2. Glass G. E. (2021). Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy. Aesthetic surgery journal, 41(6), 723–738. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab025
3. Penberthy, W. T., & Vorwaller, C. E. (2021). Utilization of the 1064 nm Wavelength in Photobiomodulation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of lasers in medical sciences, 12, e86. https://doi.org/10.34172/jlms.2021.86

Overview

Mitchell Hooper is one of the most precise athletes in strongman today. Indeed, he has won three Arnold Strongman Classic titles. Moreover, he has stood on the podium 24 times in a row. Recently, he began focusing on recovery with the same care. Specifically, he revealed why red light therapy is a game-changer for him. This treatment uses red and near-infrared light to boost cellular energy. Consequently, it helps improve tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Although research is ongoing, Hooper sees it as vital to his performance and health. Importantly, former champion Eddie Hall also supports its use. Together, they believe small gains from therapies like this add up. Therefore, red light therapy might help Hooper hit his 505-kilogram deadlift goal.

Featured Image –Why Mitchell Hooper Trusts Red Light Therapy for Recovery and Performance– Credit: @mitchellhooper, @Eddiehallwsm (Instagram)