Cellulite describes dimpled skin caused by fat deposits pushing up against the connective tissue beneath the skin. Cellulite is more common among women. You do not have to be overweight to have cellulite. It can occur in individuals of all shapes and sizes. Although there is not an easy, quick way to get rid of cellulite, exercise and weight loss can reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Causes of Cellulite
There is no single cause of cellulite. According to MayoClinic.com, genetics may play the largest role in whether you develop cellulite. It also is more prevalent in women because a woman's body typically deposits fat in the thighs and stomach. Weight gain, lack of exercise and a poor diet can make cellulite more noticeable, while stress and hormonal contraceptives also can increase your chances of developing cellulite.
Cardiovascular Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise is critical for permanent weight loss. Getting your heart rate up will burn calories to help you obtain a negative calorie deficit. To lose weight, create this deficit by burning more calories than you take in each day. Most of these calories will come from your body's daily metabolic activity and food digestion. However, physical activity and exercise still contribute a significant amount to your daily calorie burn. Weight loss will help decrease the fat deposits that are pushing up against your skin, creating cellulite.
Strength Training Exercises
Strength training should be a component of any healthy adult's exercise or weight loss program. Strength training will help develop your muscles, which will in turn increase your metabolism and the number of calories your body burns while at rest. If you do not have experience with weightlifting, consult a fitness trainer before beginning to ensure you are exercising safely. If you do have experience, begin a strength routine by focusing on compound exercises that strengthen a few muscle groups at once. Compound exercises include the squat, chest press, lunges, shoulder press, military press and clean and jerk.
Considerations
Regular exercise and healthful diets cannot always prevent or eliminate cellulite. However, an unhealthy diet and poor exercise habits will make the appearance of cellulite worse. In addition to exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, drink water throughout the day and consume a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables to help reduce cellulite.
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