Approximately 85 percent of American women have battled unsightly, cottage-cheese cellulite, according to "Women’s Health" magazine reported in 2010. The most practical and long-lasting way to lose cellulite is by combining a low-fat diet with exercises that target the muscle underlying the cellulite. Keep in mind that weight loss and strength training will only help cellulite become less noticeable, and won't always make it go away completely.
Modified Shoulder Stand
This yoga exercise helps improve circulation and increase lymph, the bodily fluid that flows through fatty areas to flush out toxins and reduce cellulite. Lie face-up on the floor, with your arms resting by your sides. Bend your knees slightly and pull your legs up to your forehead, placing your hands under your hips for support. Keep your elbows on the floor; hold for eight breaths. Roll gently and slowly back to the floor.
Reverse Lung
This exercise targets your butt and quad muscles to help you lose cellulite. Grab a pair of 5- to 10-pound dumbbells, and stand with your feet positioned hip-width apart, your arms resting at your sides. Lift your right leg and lunge behind you, bending both knees to a 90-degree angle. Pause for one second, then push off of your right leg and return to the starting position. Perform 12 to 15 repetitions, then switch legs.
Romanian Deadlift
This exercise strengthens your butt muscles and your hamstrings. Hold a pair of dumbbells, with palms facing inward. Stand with your back straight, and your feet set hip-width apart. Bend your knees slightly, and slowly bend forward, pushing your hips back while your knees keep bending. Flex your glutes, and press down in to your heels to stand, returning to the starting position. Perform eight to 10 repetitions.
Step Plyo
This exercise combines a cardiovascular workout to help you lose weight with strength training to help you gain muscle and lose cellulite. It works your quads and your inner and outer thighs to help make cellulite less noticeable. Stand in front of a 12-inch step or platform, with your right foot on the top of the step and your left foot on the floor. Push off your right foot and hop up, landing with your left foot on the step and your right foot on the floor. Repeat, alternating legs for one minute.
References
- “Women’s Health" magazine; The Beauty Tipping Point: Cellulite; Christine Lennon; June 15, 2010
- “Women’s Health" magazine; Get Rid of Cellulite; April 19, 2010
- “Fitness" magazine; The 30-Minute Stop-Cellulite Workout: Reverse Lunge; June 2008
- “Fitness" magazine; The 30-Minute Stop-Cellulite Workout: Romanian Deadlift; June 2008
- “Making the Cut”; Jillian Michaels; 2007
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