Cellulite is definitely the dreaded monster of the thighs, stomach and butt! Exactly what is cellulite? Cellulite is actually collections of fat just underneath (subcutaneous fat) the skin. It causes the skin to dimple, pucker up or lump up (commonly called cottage cheese or orange peel).
Cellulite can be classified into 3 grades:
Grade 1 cellulite is usually not visible except with a microscopic exam of the skin affected. Grade 2 cellulite will be visible if the skin is pale or has decreased elasticity. Grade 3 cellulite is the worst kind. The skin is rough and not a pretty sight. Cellulite can develop in both men and women. It is much more common in women because they have certain genetic traits.
There are many factors that determine whether you develop cellulite. Some of the factors are:
1. Genes
2. Gender
3. Hormones
4. Skin thickness
5. Unhealthy diet or lifestyle
6. Skin tone
7. Age
8. Tight elastic clothing (limits bloodflow)
9. Amount of body fat
What you need to know is that there are no quick fixes for cellulite (despite what some commercials promote). Some treatments such as liposuction and mesotherapy may give you some temporary relief from your cellulite. Liposuction is actually meant to remove deep fat tissue (visceral fat) and not cellulite.
There are many products on the market that claim to get rid of your cellulite. The medical community doesn’t support any of these products’ claims to remove cellulite.
Treating cellulite with creams may help your skin become softer and healthier but it probably won’t remove your cellulite. And, buying these treatments will become very expensive.
So, what should you do if you have cellulite? Since health should be your main concern, REDUCE YOUR OVERALL BODY FAT. This will, in turn, help to reduce your subcutaneous and visceral fat. The best way to burn body fat is through regular weight training, cardio exercise and good nutrition.
Leg exercises like lunges, step ups, bodyweight squats, sprinting and walking can help reduce butt, hip and thigh fat.
Core exercises like ab curl ups, leg raises, bird dogs, planks, V-Ups and medicine ball chops will help you shed abdominal fat.
And, a good diet will severely limit unhealthy fats, processed foods and sugars. Fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grain foods always work.
It's the same story---exercise for health and fitness and you will also look your best.
Mark Dilworth, Certified Personal Trainer
Her Fitness Hut http://herfitnesshut.com