Does Cardio Reduce Cellulite?

Does Cardio Reduce Cellulite?
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Cellulite is a common problem that effects roughly 90 percent of women, according to Cellulite Treatment. Many treatment options are available and marketed toward decreasing the appearance of cellulite on women's hips and thighs. However, regular cardio exercise coupled with a healthy diet and strength-training that results in overall body fat loss, is the best method for decreasing the appearance of cellulite.

What Is Cellulite?

Cellulite is overall superficial fat that is trapped underneath the top layer of your skin. These fat cells can grow and bulge during periods of weight gain, giving the appearance of dimples and bumps in your thigh and buttocks area. Many doctors believe that, since cellulite is primarily a woman's problem, it is caused by high levels of the female hormone estrogen. Many postnatal women or women on birth control develop cellulite because their body's waste system cannot get rid of the enormous flow of estrogen in their body, according Cellulite Treatment.

Causes

Aside from estrogen, genetics and the natural aging process, cellulite is primarily caused by a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. A diet consisting of highly processed foods, caffeine and alcohol can cause your body to retain fluid, which can make the appearance of cellulite worse. Drinking water can help flush out toxins from your cells, and regular aerobic exercise can improve overall circulation.

Aerobic Exercise

Experts recommend daily cardio exercise to reduce the appearance of cellulite, according the American Council on Exercise. Cardio exercise should be done at a moderate intensity 20 to 30 minutes each day. Exercise such as walking, jogging or swimming are effective for increasing blood flow and promoting sweating, which help remove toxins from your body. Additionally, these types of exercises also strengthen your thighs and buttocks, which can help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Other Exercise Solutions

For best results in reducing cellulite, in addition to regular aerobic exercise do total body strength training at least three days a week. Strength training builds muscle mass, which can increase your metabolism, allowing you to burn more calories and lose more body fat. The bigger the reduction in body fat, the less noticeable your cellulite will be.

References

Article reviewed by Adela McKay Last updated on: Jan 8, 2011

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