Learn how to reduce the appearance of cellulite on your thighs and butt in time for summer. Here are 4 home exercises you can do right now.
Image: Nikki Fogden-Moore
Did you know, according to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, nearly 85% of women over the age of 20 have cellulite? (And yet, only 10 per cent of men are prone to cellulite). However, just because it’s common, that doesn’t make us crazy about wearing swimmers with dimply thighs on show. The key to removing cellulite is to decrease fat deposits.
1. Stair climbing
If you’re stuck at work and don’t have time to get to the gym, take advantage of the office staircase. Sure, you’ll look a bit strange to begin with, but by upping your movement on the stairs you’ll automatically target areas prone to cellulite. Simply walking up and down stairs burns at least 10 calories a minute according to the National Wellness Institute.
Model: Angela Jackson
Image: The Picture Box Cairns
2. Squats
Squats not only burn calories, they also produce muscle. By doing squats you will work all of the leg muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings and lower leg muscles.
You can add dumbbells to traditional squats to intensify this exercise further.
Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold dumbbells (optional) down by your sides, palms facing in. Keeping your back straight, bend from the knees and hips as though you are sitting down. Don’t let your knees move forward over your toes, then return.
Perform 1-3 sets of 8-15 repetitions, depending on your fitness level.
Model: Hayley Roper
Image: Matthew Parkes
3. Lunges
Both walking and stationary lunges target all the lower-body muscles.
Start by taking one large step forward and lower your body so both of your knees form 90-degree angles, keeping your front knee over the ankle. Return to the starting position.
Aim for 8-12 reps on each leg.
Image: Blake Pearl
4. Surfer burpee
A surfer burpee will not only challenge you physically, but will also improve mobility in your hips and back.
Bend over or squat down and place your hands on the floor in front of you, just outside of your feet.
Jump both feet back to a plank position.
Drop to a push-up—your chest should touch the floor. You can also drop to your knees here to make it easier if required.
Push up to return to a plank position while jumping feet to your left side (pictured), aiming to land on your mat standing side on, like you would on a surfboard.
Don’t worry if you land off the mat, your challenge is just to eventually get there. Just keep practising!
Jump back into a plank position and repeat on the other side.
Repeat for 10-15 reps on each side.
NEXT: 5 easy home workouts (video)
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