When Diet and Exercise Are Not Cutting It: The Battle With Stubborn Metabolism
You work hard in the kitchen and at the gym, but the scale still will not budge. Your energy crashes. You cannot shake the bloat. You are following all the “rules,” but your body is not responding like you would expect. Does this sound familiar?
Fat loss, energy levels, and metabolism are much more complex than just calories in versus calories out. Clients at Body Lab Studio in Myrtle Beach often come to us frustrated with stubborn fat pockets, slow results, and a persistent feeling of being “stuck.”
The solution is not always more restrictive dieting, more intense workouts, or another supplement regimen. Modern infrared wellness, guided by emerging science, is about supporting the body’s own capacity to burn fat and recover more efficiently, using non-invasive tools that can complement a healthy lifestyle.
Boosting Fat-Burning and Recovery with EMS and RF Technology
EMS + RF as a Metabolic Booster
EMS Body Sculpt+RF combines muscle stimulation using electromagnetic energy with radiofrequency-based tissue warming, supporting muscle engagement and skin-focused treatment goals when paired with infrared wellness therapies.
EMS uses electromagnetic stimulation to activate muscle contractions, mimicking the effects of exercise and engaging muscles even while at rest. This muscle activation supports muscle engagement and tone and may complement body composition goals when combined with appropriate training, nutrition, and recovery. As a result, EMS is often used to support muscle engagement and recovery as part of a broader wellness or body sculpting program, with individual outcomes varying.
Radio Frequency (RF) focuses on skin tightening and tissue quality by using high-frequency electromagnetic waves to gently warm the skin. This controlled warming may support collagen remodeling and contribute to improvements in the appearance of skin texture and firmness over time. RF may support the body’s natural processes but focuses more on tissue quality rather than directly targeting fat breakdown. When paired with infrared therapies, EMS and RF can enhance metabolism and may help improve muscle tone and skin quality. These treatments are typically scheduled on different days for optimal results.
The Science: What Is Metabolism and Why Does It Slow Down?
Metabolism is the process by which your body converts the food you eat, stored body fat, and oxygen into usable energy for your cells. Your metabolic rate is influenced by:
- Blood flow and circulation
- Hormone balance
- Muscle mass
- Mitochondrial and cellular health
- Inflammation and oxidative stress
- Sleep, stress, and overall lifestyle
When chronic stress, inflammation, sedentary living, and modern environmental exposures interfere with these systems, it becomes harder to burn fat, maintain steady energy, and feel mentally clear.
In other words, willpower alone sometimes is not enough. For many people, the missing piece is not more discipline, but more physiological support.
How Infrared Heat May Support Natural Fat-Burning
1. Infrared Raises Core Temperature in a Controlled Way
Infrared sessions gently increase core body temperature and can elicit cardiovascular and thermoregulatory responses similar to light to moderate exercise in some individuals. Research on passive heat therapy and infrared saunas has shown:
- Increased heart rate and cardiac output
- Peripheral vasodilation and increased blood flow
- Modest increases in energy expenditure during sessions
- Short-term increases in heart rate, circulation, and thermoregulatory responses during sessions, with cardiovascular effects varying by individual and protocol.
In a randomized controlled crossover trial, 10 healthy women completed sessions of infrared sauna, moderate indoor cycling, or rest. Infrared sauna increased core temperature and heart rate, producing short-term heat-stress responses that can resemble aspects of light to moderate physical activity in some individuals, though it is not equivalent to exercise. It can raise heart rate and core temperature similarly to light/moderate activity in some people; not a substitute for exercise (Hussain et al., 2022). This does not replace exercise, but it can be a helpful adjunct, especially for those who are deconditioned or limited by joint pain.
2. Infrared and Light-Based Therapies and Fat Metabolism
Some photobiomodulation and infrared-related studies suggest that certain wavelengths of light may influence fat metabolism and body composition when paired with lifestyle changes or exercise. Examples include:
- One small study reported greater body composition changes when near-infrared was used during walking, but methods and controls limit certainty (Kim et al. 2017 treadmill + NIR study).
- Low-level laser and light therapies around the red and near-infrared spectrum that produced modest reductions in circumferences such as waist, abdomen, or thighs over several weeks.
- Pilot or small clinical trials suggesting improved systemic lipid metabolism rather than direct destruction of fat cells.
- Some research suggests certain infrared exposures during exercise may increase local lipolysis in targeted regions; more robust trials are needed.
At Body Lab Studio, we position infrared as a supportive tool that may help unlock or enhance the results of the effort you are already putting in.
3. Infrared, Lymphatic Drainage, and Detoxification Support
Efficient fat metabolism depends in part on a well-functioning lymphatic system, which helps move fluids, metabolic byproducts, and inflammatory compounds out of tissues. While infrared and near-infrared wavelengths may support lymphatic drainage, their benefits are wellness-focused, aiming to improve comfort, circulation, and perceived fluid balance. Results may vary from person to person.
By combining infrared heat with tools that mechanically stimulate tissues and lymphatic flow, such as LPG Endermologie, Body Lab Studio aims to support circulation, lymphatic drainage, and relief from bloating or a “heavy” feeling after sessions.
Infrared Fitness: Exercise and Infrared Heat for Metabolic Support
Safety and Contraindications
Beyond Metabolism: Other Infrared Wellness Benefits
Improved Circulation and Cardiovascular Support
Passive heat therapies, including sauna use, have been associated with improved endothelial function, reduced arterial stiffness, and in some cohorts, lower blood pressure and reduced cardiovascular risk when used regularly.
In sedentary adults, several weeks of passive heat therapy have been associated with improvements in vascular function and reductions in resting blood pressure. These findings reflect repeated heat exposure in controlled research settings; infrared heat may create a similar thermal stimulus, though study methods and modalities differ.
For many clients, this translates into:
- A feeling of “looser,” more open circulation
- Easier warm-up before activity
- A supportive tool for overall heart and vascular health when combined with medical care and lifestyle changes
Skin Texture, Cellulite, and Tissue Quality
Heat-enhanced circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin and connective tissues. When combined with mechanical stimulation (such as LPG Endermologie) and consistent light-based therapies, clients often notice:
- Smoother appearing skin texture in areas prone to cellulite
- Improved skin tone and firmness in regions that feel “droopy” or lax
- A more even, healthier looking complexion
Some cellulite and body contouring protocols already combine infrared, light, and mechanical massage, and small clinical studies suggest modest improvements in circumference and appearance when treatments are repeated over weeks. While results vary, and no technology can offer permanent or complete cellulite removal, infrared-based approaches can be a gentle, non-invasive part of a comprehensive body shaping plan.
Energy Levels and Recovery
Photobiomodulation research indicates that light in the red and near-infrared range can influence mitochondrial function, supporting ATP production and more efficient cellular energy metabolism in various tissues, including muscle and nerve cells. Optimized mitochondrial energy production is closely linked with:
- Better exercise tolerance
- Faster recovery
- Reduced delayed onset muscle soreness in some protocols
For example, studies of post-exercise infrared sauna and heat exposure have reported improvements in perceived recovery, neuromuscular performance, and reductions in muscle soreness in certain athletic populations (Ahokas et al., 2022; Mero et al., 2015). Many Body Lab Studio clients similarly report:
- Less soreness after sessions
- A gentle “energy lift” following infrared treatments
- Feeling more motivated to be active throughout the day
Infrared as Part of a Holistic Wellness Approach
Infrared wellness for inflammation relief at Body Lab Studio
At Body Lab Studio, we are careful not to present infrared as a magic bullet. The most consistent results occur when infrared is integrated into an overall lifestyle that includes:
- Nutrient-dense nutrition
- Appropriate exercise programming
- Sleep hygiene and stress management
- Hydration and basic metabolic support
Infrared is not a replacement for diet and exercise. It is a supportive tool that may:
- Enhance the effectiveness of your workouts
- Make it easier to recover and stay consistent
- Help your body access and mobilize stored fat more efficiently when you are already doing the work
FAQ: Infrared Heat and Metabolism
1. Can Infrared Be Used on All Body Types and Ages?
In general, infrared therapies can be adapted for many body types and a broad age range. At Body Lab Studio, treatments are adjustable in intensity and duration and supervised by trained staff to prioritize safety and comfort. Certain medical conditions, medications, or heat sensitivities require caution, so consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for anyone with health concerns.
2. How Many Sessions Are Necessary?
Some clients feel lighter or more relaxed after just one treatment. However, body composition, lymphatic, and skin texture changes are typically gradual and cumulative. Many people see more noticeable changes with consistent sessions over several weeks, especially when infrared is combined with other modalities such as lymphatic drainage, red light therapy, or mechanical body sculpting.
3. Does Infrared Take the Place of Diet and Exercise?
No. Infrared is best thought of as an accelerator or amplifier for the changes you are already making. By supporting circulation, recovery, and cellular metabolism, it may help your body respond more effectively to the nutrition and movement choices you are working hard to maintain.
4. Is There an Age Limit for Infrared Treatments?
There is no single universal age cutoff, but protocols can be tailored to younger adults, midlife clients, and older adults with appropriate screening. Because infrared can influence circulation and core temperature, anyone with cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, pregnancy, or other medical conditions should get clearance from a medical professional before beginning a program.
5. How Quickly Will I See Results?
Many people describe feeling lighter, less tight, and more relaxed after their first session. Visible changes in body shape, circumference, or skin texture usually develop gradually with repeated sessions over weeks to months. When infrared is integrated into a comprehensive program that includes drainage, sculpting, and red light therapy, results can be more pronounced and easier to maintain.
The Body Lab Studio Advantage: Measurable, Education First Wellness
At Body Lab Studio in Myrtle Beach, our protocols are designed to be modern, measurable, and supportive.
We emphasize:
- Education first: You learn why infrared heat and body sculpting can support your metabolism and recovery, and how each modality works together.
- Objective tracking: We measure changes so you can see trends over time rather than guessing.
- Personalization: RESET Membership options, package plans, and one-on-one consults help match the frequency and combination of services to your goals, schedule, and comfort level.
Our goal is not a short-term “fix,” but to help you build momentum toward long-term wellness, confidence, and metabolic resilience.
Infrared Heat and Metabolism in Myrtle Beach: Experience the Difference
If you have been doing “everything right” and still feel stuck, it may be time to support your metabolism from a different angle. Infrared heat, combined with strategic movement, lymphatic support, and body sculpting, can provide a non-invasive, science-informed way to help your body do what it was designed to do: circulate, repair, and burn fuel efficiently.
Book your personalized consultation at Body Lab Studio in Myrtle Beach to:
- Explore your infrared and body sculpting options
- Review RESET Membership plans and tailored packages
- Schedule your first session that integrates infrared heat, lymphatic drainage, and body contouring
Experience the science-first difference for yourself and begin to reclaim your natural fat-burning power.
