That lumpy fat that creates dimples and bumps on your thighs and buttocks goes by the name of cellulite. Cellulite affects up to 80 percent of women, according to MayoClinic.com. Men may also experience the lumpy appearance of cellulite in various areas. Although numerous cellulite creams and treatments cover drug store shelves, exercise is one of the more effective methods of dealing with this unsightly fat.
Cellulite
Cellulite refers to the fat cells that lie just under the surface of your skin. Although these fat cells resemble the fat cells elsewhere on your body, their location makes them more visible. Skin over the areas of cellulite contains collagen fibers that may break down and lose elasticity, allowing the underlying fat to bulge and push against the overlying layer of skin. Factors that may play a role in the development of cellulite include heredity, metabolism, fad dieting and dehydration. Being inactive, using hormonal contraceptives and chronic stress may also increase your risk of developing cellulite.
Exercise
Weight loss that includes healthy dieting and regular exercise is most likely one of the best methods of treating cellulite, according to MayoClinic.com. Exercise can help you lose excess body fat, reducing your overall percentage of fat, including the layer of fat that accumulates just beneath the surface of your skin. Strengthening and toning the muscles in your lower abdomen, thighs and buttocks can help improve the appearance of cellulite in these areas.
Methods
Aerobic exercise encourages your body to burn fat for fuel. Huntington College of Health Sciences recommends participating in aerobic exercise sessions that last at least 30 minutes at a time. Endurance activities, such as bicycling, jogging, cross-country skiing and brisk walking, can help increase your caloric burn while toning your muscles. In addition to helping you burn fat for fuel, regular exercise encourages your body to store excess calories as muscle glycogen instead of fat, further minimizing the development of cellulite.
Considerations
Even though losing weight may help reduce the appearance of your bumpy, lumpy fat deposits, it is unlikely to cure your cellulite problem completely. Lifestyle changes that may also help reduce cellulite include eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining a healthy weight. Quitting smoking may also help minimize the risk of cellulite.
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