Exercises To Fight Cellulite

If you're worried about the dimpled skin that collects on your thighs, rear end or middle, you're not alone---cellulite affects between 80 and 90 percent of women according to Dr. Lionel Bissoon, author of "The Cellulite Cure." Exercises that target these trouble spots can help build muscle and burn fat, lessening the appearance of cellulite. Exercise should be combined with a low-fat, low-sodium diet for the best chance of fighting cellulite.

The Bridge

This exercise targets the cellulite on your abs and your butt and makes a good warm-up. Lie on your back on the floor with your knees bent and your feet hip-width apart. Pull in your abs and make sure your back is pressed to the floor. Contract your butt muscles and press your hips up off the floor. Keep your abs clenched---this will keep you from arching your back too much. Lower yourself slowly to the floor and repeat for three sets of 10 reps each.

Squats with Dumbbells

This exercise works your hips, thighs and butt---prime places for cellulite to gather. Do it without dumbbells until you feel comfortable with the motion; add weight a few pounds at a time. Stand with your feet slightly apart, a dumbbell in each hand. Pull in your abs and raise your arms until the dumbbells rest against the front of your shoulders. Set your weight over your heels and lower your hips, bending at the knees. Keep your back straight and try not to lean forward. Stop when your thighs are parallel to the floor. Your knees should stay centered over your feet---don't let them pull inward. Your lower back should be gently rounded. To release the squat, keep your head up, exhale and push your feet into the floor as you rise back to the starting position. Try for two to three sets of 10 reps each.

Triangle Pose

Many yoga exercises target cellulite-collecting areas. This one works the thighs, increases flexibility and helps burn fat. Stand straight with your arms at your sides. Spread your feet about 3 feet apart while your hold your arms parallel to the floor. Turn your left foot inward and your right foot outward to a 90-degree angle. Twist your right leg outward as well, keeping the knee and ankle aligned. Bend over your right leg, arching from the hip. Press your left leg into the floor to keep yourself balanced. Grab your right shin or ankle, depending on your flexibility. Keep your left arm raised and stretched upward. Hold the pose for at least 30 seconds then straighten up. Reverse the position of your feet and repeat the exercise, bending over your left leg this time.

Trunk Rotation

If your cellulite gathers in your "love handles," try this exercise to strengthen your abs and work your sides. You'll need a medicine ball---try a 2-lb. ball to start with and work your way up to heavier weights over time. Sit on the floor with your feet together and knees bent, holding the ball in your lap. Sit up straight and keep your back vertical. Contract your abs to brace yourself and rotate your trunk to one side. Keep the ball held close to you. Twist as far as is comfortable, take a breath, and twist all the way to your other side. As you get stronger, you can use more weight and begin the exercise by leaning back toward the floor. Always keep your heels on the floor and focus on keeping your abs tight throughout the exercise. Try to do five repetitions per set for two to three sets. Work your way up to 10 reps per set.