Cellulite is one of the most stubborn problems for women, and quite often associated with carrying a few excess pounds. The reality, though, is that cellulite isn’t directly caused by being overweight - there are usually several contributing factors. Let’s take a look at these factors, and what you can do in terms of exercise to help alleviate a cellulite problem.
Cellulite, in some degree or another, is present in almost every woman past the age of puberty. There are stages of cellulite, which range from non-visible to not only visible, but often painful. However, cellulite is not caused by being overweight, nor does being overweight mean a person will have cellulite.
Most medical researchers agree that the biggest cause of cellulite is hormonal and genetic. The genetic aspect applies particularly to body composition and circulatory patterns and disorders. In terms of hormonal factors, estrogen appears to be the hormone that causes cellulite and in many instances makes it worse.
Specific Exercises Will Help
While there’s no proven connection between spot exercises and cellulite reduction, diet and exercise do have a direct cause and effect relationship with cellulite. Poor diets contribute to circulatory problems and can affect hormonal levels, so it’s best to regulate one’s diet and reduce excess fats, salt, alcohol and other readily known health risks.
Let’s be clear … exercise alone can’t eliminate cellulite, but it can help reduce the problem to minimal levels. The effect on reducing stress levels alone should not be underestimated, even though stress reduction is another topic entirely. However, exercise, and specific exercises, have positive benefits on several levels, both mental and physical.
Specific Exercises
There’s an exercise called the stiff legged deadlift, which might sound somewhat intimidating but it’s really easy to do. This exercise will attack the area where cellulite is commonly found … the back upper part of your legs, i.e. the upper hamstring area. First, stand tall with feet should width apart. Place two dumbell weights in your hands (start light at first, then increase the weight as you become more comfortable with the exercise). Then, with weights in hand, bend over at the waist, keeping your knees straight, until the weights touch the floor or get close to touching the floor. You’ll feel this movement in the back of your thighs and the upper hamstring area. The stiff legged deadlift also burns a surprising amount of calories. Try 2-3 sets of 10 and increase as you gain proficiency. This is an excellent exercise to improve your appearance.
Another recommended exercise is indoor cycling. If you belong to a health club, try a spinning (indoor cycling) class. Otherwise, use a stationary bike for at least 1/2 hour at a moderate pace. Spinning classes are recommended because they’re challenging and fun. Not only will you burn lots of calories and work your legs, you’ll also have fun and reduce your stress levels.
In summary, a number of combined factors cause cellulite, so to combat cellulite a similar approach is necessary. Reduce your stress levels, introduce moderate to brisk exercise in accordance with your fitness level, and institute a healthy diet. You’ll find that within a matter of weeks or months, the cellulite problem will greatly dissipate.
Lisa Adams is a working mother and author who has always taken an interest in women’s health issues. To learn the facts about cellulite and how to reduce it without wasting money on so called miracle cures, you’re invited to visit Lisa’s recommended Cellulite Reduction resource site.
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