Cellulite is fat deposits located directly underneath the skin that give a dimply appearance. Women of all weights and sizes can have cellulite, and it occasionally appears on men. It is commonly found on the back of the legs, thighs and buttocks. It also develops on the stomach, breasts and arms. Nothing can completely eliminate cellulite, but exercise can reduce the severity of it by decreasing the amount of fat underneath the skin and tightening muscles to give the skin a smoother appearance, according to Peter Crosta of Medical News Today.
Squats
Wall squats target the lower body to help tone and build leg, buttocks and abdominal muscles, which usually lie underneath cellulite problem areas. Toning these muscles can help smooth out the appearance of cellulite. The McKinley Health Center explains that to safely perform a squat, stand with your back resting against a wall. Place your feet about 1-1/2 to 2 feet out in front of you. Slowly bend your knees to less than a 90-degree angle (bending lower can stress the knees). Count to two and slowly return to a standing position. You can also try this exercise with a stability ball between your legs to work the inner thighs. For added resistance, hold dumbbells in your hands.
Push-ups
If you suffer from cellulite on the arms (usually on the back of the upper arm) reduce the severity through a push-up regimen. Push-ups also help tone chest muscles to reduce the appearance of cellulite on the breasts. Get onto the floor on your hands and knees. Place your hands a little more than shoulder-width apart. You can either stay on your knees or extend your legs back and support yourself on your toes, if possible. Bending your elbows, slowly lower your chest toward the ground until your chin comes in contact with the floor. Use your arms and chest to lift your body back to starting position and repeat for about 10 repetitions.
Cardiovascular Exercise
According to GeorgiaHealthInfo.gov, losing weight can improve the appearance of cellulite. Cardiovascular exercise is any activity that raises your heart beat for an extended amount of time and burns excess calories to help you lose weight. Common cardio activities include walking at a brisk pace, jogging, cycling, swimming, aerobic classes and dancing.
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