Cellulite is fat that appears as dimpled skin on your thighs, hips and buttocks according to the Mayo Clinic. It is caused by fibrous connective cords that tether the skin to deeper structures. Fat lies between these structures, and as the fat cells accumulate, they push against the skin, creating an uneven surface or dimpling. Cellulite can be prevented and reduced with a regular strength-training routine. Preform these exercises for two to three sets and 12 to 15 repetitions for maximum cellulite benefits.
Reverse Lunge
This will target problem cellulite areas in the thighs. Begin by standing with feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Fitness magazine recommends holding a medium-weight dumbbell in each hand for an intermediate level. Beginners should try this without free weights. Next, lunge behind you with your right foot. Both legs should be at 90 degrees, and keep the knees behind the toes. Hold for five seconds as you drop the knee down. Then lift and return to start counting as one repetition. Repeat as recommended.
Bar Crunch
This exercise tones the upper body and the core where cellulite might present itself. Begin by lying face up on a bench or a fitness mat. Hold a weighted bar close to your chest with your arms straight and hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Your palms will be facing forward. Next press the bar up, then follow by crunching up. Shape magazine says that once you are in the "up" position, twist your torso to the right, the left and then back to center. Move your arms and upper body as one unit. As you lower to starting position, count as one repetition and repeat as stated.
Hip Bridge
The glutes often have the most cellulite, so try this exercise to tone and prevent fat cells from dimpling. Being by lying on your back with your lower legs on a fitness ball. You will then raise your hips until they're aligned with your feet and shoulders squeezing through your core and glutes. Next raise your left leg until the bottom of your foot is facing the ceiling, and your right heel is digging into the ball. Then roll the ball toward you and away from you with your right leg. Each roll-in counts as one repetition. Repeat as recommended, and then switch to the other leg.
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