Catchy marketing ads might lead you to believe you can slather a cream or oil on your skin and magically make cellulite disappear, but don't be fooled by this hype. Cellulite is very hard to eliminate altogether. However, you can make it look less obvious by following the right training methods. According to MayoClinic.com, you are best served doing exercises for your glutes, thighs and abdomen to make the skin look more appealing. This requires the use of free weights, body weight and machines.
Weight Loss From Cardio
Weight training exercises build up your muscles and make your body look more lean and defined. However, cardio is an integral component of a workout because it burns fat throughout the whole body. Being that cellulite is really nothing more than trapped fat cells, regular doses of cardio will help reduce cellulite's appearance. Perform a type that you like, such as running, brisk walking, elliptical training, rowing, stair climbing or swimming.
Squat
The squat is a multi-joint exercise that works the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings and calves all at the same time. You have the option of using the weight of your body, holding dumbbells at your sides or a barbell across your upper shoulders. Begin with your feet spaced slightly wider than shoulder width apart and toes facing forward. Slowly lower yourself down by bending your knees and pushing your butt back. Once your thighs parallel the floor, rise back up in a steady motion and repeat. For a variation, perform a plie squat, with your feet spaced wide apart, or a split leg squat, with one foot resting on a bench behind your body.
Lunge
The lunge is another multi-joint exercise that tones the butt and thighs. Stand with your feet about hip width apart and rest your arms at your sides. Keeping your back straight, abs tight and gaze fixed forward, step ahead with your right foot and lower yourself down by bending both knees 90 degrees. Steadily rise back up, step forward with your left leg and lunge again. Continue to alternate back and forth. To increase the resistance, hold dumbbells at your sides.
Leg Press
The leg press is a machine that works your butt and thighs from a seated position. Place your feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart on the steel platform and lean against the backrest. Forcefully push up on the platform until your legs are fully extended and flip the safety arms to the sides. Slowly lower the weight by bending your knees and stop when your thighs are close to your body. Push the platform back up until your knees are just short of locking out and repeat. Be critical of your knee alignment during this exercise. If your knees go past your toes during the lowering portion, move your feet up higher on the platform.
Stiff Leg Deadlift
Stiff leg deadlifts work the hamstrings, glutes and lower back simultaneously. Stand with your feet about shoulder width apart and hold a barbell in front of your thighs with an overhand, shoulder-width grip. Keeping your legs straight, bend forward at the hips and lower the bar as you push your butt back. Once you feel a good stretch in your hamstrings, rise back up and repeat. You also have the option of using dumbbells.
Medicine Ball Crunch
A crunch works the abs. Using a medicine ball increases the resistance on your muscles. Lie face-up on the floor with your knees bent, feet flat and ball held at arm's length above your chest. Keeping your lower body still, raise your shoulders off the floor and push the ball toward the ceiling. Squeeze your abs forcefully and hold for a full second. Slowly lower yourself back down and repeat.
Member Comments