Cellulite plagues many women, as well as some men. The unsightly appearance of dimpled skin on the thighs, buttocks, hips and stomach is formed by the fat deposits found in these body areas. According to MayoClinic.com, the only real solution for preventing cellulite is to get active. Regular exercise can help promote skin tone and texture while you shed pounds.
Barbell Lunges
The barbell lunge is performed by holding a weighted barbell across the back of your shoulders and gripping it with both hands. Keep your back straight and head up throughout the exercise. Begin by taking one step forward with your right leg. Lower yourself while inhaling until the left knee is hovering above the floor. Ensure that you step out far enough so that your right knee does not go beyond your toes. Otherwise, this puts unnecessary pressure on your knee joint. With the heel of your right foot, push up and slowly return to your starting position as you exhale. Switch legs and repeat the movement. Perform two to three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions.
Crunches
On an exercise mat, lie flat on your back and position your legs to form a 90-degree angle. Lightly place your hands behind your head without locking your fingers. Keep the elbows pointed slightly inward. Begin by pushing your back down into the floor to help isolate your abdominal muscles. Roll the shoulders off the floor in a controlled manner and squeeze your abdominal muscles to bring your upper body off the ground. You only need to bring the shoulders off the ground 6 to 8 inches. Exhale as you come up and hold your position for one count at the top of the movement. Slowly return to your starting position. Perform three sets of 15 to 25 repetitions.
Lying Leg Curls
After choosing an appropriate weight level, lie down on the leg curl machine and grip the handles, if available. Ensure that the curling lever is properly positioned just above your heel and below your calf muscles. Keep your torso pushed against the bench as you squeeze your hamstrings to bring the lever up. Exhale as you curl. Bring the lever toward your hamstrings as far as possible without sacrificing form. Hold for one count at the top of the movement and fully contract your hamstrings. Slowly return the lever to the starting position as you inhale. Perform two to three sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.
Cardio
Finish every weight training routine with at least 15 minutes of cardiovascular exercise. You can jog or run on a treadmill, pedal on an elliptical trainer, which is better if you have joint problems, ride an exercise bike or use a stair-climber. The important point is that you elevate your heart rate to help burn calories. Cardio combined with weight training will help optimize results in trying to reduce cellulite. Be sure to give yourself some rest days in between exercising to avoid over-training and possible injury.
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