Exercises To Shift Cellulite

Cellulite is another name for the pockets of fat that are pushed against the surface of the skin, creating a dimply or lumpy effect. There is no miracle cure for cellulite, but since it is essentially fat, regular exercise and a healthy balanced diet can greatly improve the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite affects more women than men, with eight out of 10 women having cellulite in varying degrees, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are exercises you can do to help burn fat and tone up the body, thus reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Squat Jumps

Squat jumps work the glutes, hamstrings and quads. They help to burn fat and tone up the legs. They can reduce the appearance of fat, therefore reducing the appearance of cellulite. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, hold your stomach in and keep your back straight and your chest up. Hold one dumbbell in each hand and pull them up on to your shoulders to create resistance. Squat down until your knees are at a 90 degree angle. Bring your arms up and jump up in the air. Use as much power and energy as you can. Upon landing, go back down into a squat. Repeat this until you have done three sets of 10 repetitions. Remember that it is very important to breathe and move your body correctly.

Lunges

Lunges tone the legs and butt as well as burn fat. For extra resistance, you can hold two dumbbells or a barbell on your shoulders. Stand up with your back straight and your stomach tensed and pulled in. Your feet should be firmly planted on the ground and hip-width apart. Step forward with one leg and slowly bend your knee until your other knee is nearly touching the floor. Make sure that you are completely upright and that you don't lean into your leg. Use your heel to pull yourself back up again, and repeat. Do three sets of 10 repetitions on each leg. Take a rest between each set.

Walking at an Incline

Walking up stairs, up a hill or on a treadmill can help to burn excess fat. Research has shown that incline walking increases the body's fat burning capabilities through increased muscular activity. Therefore, incline walking could help to burn fat faster and aid in the reduction of cellulite over time.

Cautions

Exercise is vital to the reduction of cellulite. However; it is very important that before you begin any workout you stretch and warm up your muscles. This not only reduces the risk of injury, but it makes your joints and your muscles more supple, allowing you to work out more effectively.