Biohacking Revolution: Inside Upgrade Labs in Austin, Texas

In a groundbreaking approach to wellness, Upgrade Labs in Austin, Texas, is making advanced biohacking technologies accessible to everyday consumers. Founded by Dave Asprey in 2017, the facility combines cutting-edge therapies to help individuals enhance their physical and mental performance without the exorbitant costs typically associated with elite wellness treatments.

Asprey, a prominent figure in the biohacking movement, emphasized the desire to democratize access to health technologies. “With everything I do, there’s a free version, a cheap version, and the crazy billionaire version,” he stated. “What would happen if I put this in a facility so that, for about the cost of a nice gym membership, you could access the same tools crazy billionaires use to make themselves younger, smarter, faster and stronger?” The result is a facility that caters to the average person while offering therapies previously reserved for celebrities and the wealthy.

Experiencing Cutting-Edge Therapies

During a recent visit to Upgrade Labs, I had the opportunity to experience several of the facility’s innovative treatments. The membership fee is $189 per month, which provides access to a range of advanced recovery tools designed to enhance healing and boost overall well-being.

One of the standout therapies is the Ballancer Pro, an FDA-approved compression therapy device. The suit, which envelops the user in 24 air chambers, employs a rhythmic inflation and deflation process that targets areas linked to the lymphatic system. This treatment aims to reduce water retention, improve circulation, and promote muscle recovery. After a 40-minute session, I noticed a significant reduction in bloating and an overall sense of relaxation.

Next, I experienced the PEMF blanket — a pulsed electromagnetic field therapy device that sends low-level electromagnetic waves through the body. This therapy purportedly rebalances electrical signals in the body and may enhance cell performance and recovery. As the blanket enveloped me, I felt a gentle hum and localized warmth, particularly in areas where I had muscle tension. After just 12 minutes, I felt energized and noticed an improvement in my range of motion.

Light and Cold Therapies for Wellness

Another fascinating treatment was the Redcharger, a frequency-specific light therapy device. This machine uses a combination of red, infrared, and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity and reduce inflammation. The 20-minute session was remarkably soothing, as the gentle warmth enveloped me, and I found myself nodding off briefly during the treatment. Stepping out, I felt a lightness in my mind, attributed to the endorphins released during the session.

The facility also features a cryotherapy chamber, which I approached with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Asprey explained that this therapy exposes the body to extremely low temperatures — about -175°F — for three minutes. After donning protective gear, I entered the chamber and immediately felt the intense cold. While initially shocking, I began to focus on my breathing, which helped me acclimate. Upon exiting, a rush of warmth flooded my body, and I felt invigorated, ready to tackle a workout.

Finally, I tried the metabolic trainer, which simulates altitude training by alternating between high and low oxygen levels. This approach may improve cardiovascular performance and metabolic health. During the 40-minute session, I experienced fluctuations in oxygen levels, which left me feeling both lightheaded and refreshed.

As I wrapped up my experience at Upgrade Labs, it was evident why this facility is gaining popularity among Austinites. The combination of advanced therapies, all available under one roof, presents a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to enhance their health and well-being. Notably, the cost of a basic membership seems attainable, especially if similar facilities were to open in larger cities like New York.

Upgrade Labs is more than just a trend; it represents a shift towards a future where advanced health technologies are accessible to all. As the biohacking movement continues to evolve, facilities like this may redefine how we approach wellness and self-improvement.