The appearance of cellulite is a common complaint in the women folk. Although it is difficult to get rid of it, it is not an impossible task. There are various cosmetic procedures, like liposuction, laser therapy, etc., which are also used for this purpose. However, leg exercises for cellulite reduction are the best and safest bet. They can be practiced in the gym or at home, if one has equipment, like dumbbells and the barbell.
List of Exercises
The added benefit of these exercises is that they will make your leg look good and feel strong. There are different ones on the quadriceps and hamstring. Some of them also work the buttocks area.
Barbell Squats
This helps get rid of flab from your quadriceps. For this, as the name suggests, you will need a weighted barbell. Now, stand straight with shoulder width distance between your feet and without moving your legs or drooping your shoulders, start bending your knees till your thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold in the position for 2 to 5 seconds, and return to the starting position. Repeat it for 10 repetitions and rest for 30 seconds before you start your next set of 10 counts.
Wall Squats
This is excellent for people who have knee pain and also for those who want to tackle the extra fat. They can skip the barbell squats and do this. Stand about one foot away from the wall and lean your back on the wall. Slide down the wall, till you come to a sitting position, with your thighs parallel to the floor. Hold in this position as long as you can and slowly return to the starting position. You can repeat this for 2 sets of 10 counts each.
Dumbbell Lunges
Use a dumbbell of weight 5 pounds in each hand. When you hold the dumbbells, make sure your palms face you. Stand straight with your shoulders rolled back and keep a distance of about one foot between your legs, more if you are taller. Step your left foot forward, at a distance of about two feet from your right leg. Lower yourself till it is a few inches from the ground and your left thigh is parallel to the floor. The important part about these movements is that, you should hold in the position. Slowly bring up your torso, but do not move your feet. Lower your torso again and repeat the same for 10 counts. Change your legs and get your right foot forward, to repeat the movement on this foot for 10 counts as well. Take a rest break for 30 seconds, then repeat for both the legs for another 10 counts each.
Knee Extensions
This is excellent to work the quadriceps muscle. Make use of ankle weights. Sit on a chair, but make sure your feet barely touch the floor. Maintain a shoulder width distance between your knees and also your feet. Flex your right toes and raise your right leg in front of you so that it is parallel to the ground, and hold in the position for a couple of seconds. Lower it and repeat 10 times with the same leg, then switch, and repeat with the other one for 10 counts.
Inner Thigh Lift
Inner thigh is a commonly-afflicted area. Take a mat, lie on your left side, and rest your head on the outstretched left arm. Now, bend your right knee and rest it on a pillow or rolled towel. When you do this your right knee should be aligned with hip joint and your hips should be aligned on top of each other. Place your right hand in front of you and lift the left leg few inches off the floor. Hold in the position and then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times for the left, and then, switch the legs.
There are some people who are more prone to cellulite than others. Genetics has a big role to play. If you are determined and you diligently do these exercises, you will be able to get rid of cellulite. Along with these, make sure you also include some cardiovascular exercises in your workout routine.
