Even though cellulite is almost always associated with being overweight, this isn’t necessarily true. Cellulite is a stubborn problem with no singular specific cause. Let’s examine some of the causes of cellulite, and discuss specific exercises that will help reduce the 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.

Per medical researchers, genetic and hormonal factors are the top causes of cellulite. Genetics play a role because circulatory patterns and body composition factor greatly into cellulite. Hormonal factors like estrogen levels appear to be a leading cause of cellulite, and fluctuating estrogen levels can make the problem worse.

How Certain Exercises Can Help

Stress levels are another majore factor in cellulite problems. To reduce stress, exercise should be introduced. Stress can also be caused by a poor diet, which of course also has a negative effect on weight and appearance.

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.

Here’s Two To Try

Most cellulite deposits are present in the upper rear thigh area. An excellent exercise to help tone that area is the stiff legged deadlift, which sounds more difficult than it is. Here’s how to do it … stand erect with your feet shoulder length apart, holding a dumbell weight in each hand, as much weight as you feel safe with (you can always do this with more weight later on). Now, bend forward at the waist until the dumbell weights either touch the ground, or as low as you can go. Keep your knees straight and don’t bend them. You will feel the motion in the back of your thighs and also in your lower rear end. This is an excellent toning exercise that will help improve your appearance.

If you belong to a health club, be sure to try a spinning class. Also called indoor cycling, these classes are fun, challenging, and burn a lot of calories. Their effect on cellulite reduction is twofold: you’ll burn calories, tone your legs and rear end, and reduce your stress level … all in a 45 minute or one hour class.

To summarize, a combination of factors will help you reduce cellulite or prevent you from gaining much cellulite to begin with. Combine stress reduction, a healthy diet, and specific exercises or an overall consistent exercise program to help ease the problem.