31 July 2008

How to get rid of cellulite


For anyone who doesn't know, cellulite is the knobbly looking 'orange peel' type skin that can appear on your legs, arms, bum and stomach.  It spoils the smooth appearance of a sleek, toned body and, needless to say, is not something than any woman likes to see. (unless its on a celebrity of course!)

If you find yourself stuck with a case of cottage cheese skin, here are a few ideas of how you can get reduce the appearance of it and if you are super strict with yourself, get rid of it completely.

Remember, cellulite can happen to anyone, regardless of your weight or body shape. The only way it seems to prevent it from appearing is a life of constant activity and fitness. Have you ever seen an olympic athlete with cellulite?

Get active
Cellulite can be caused by the way fat cells are sitting under the skin.  Getting active with some high intensity cardio work such as interval training on the bike or sprint or hill running outside will burn some fat ensuring that any fat cells won't contain much that will show on the outside. This is why expensive creams don't work. The effort of getting rid of cellulite takes place beneath the skin.

Get hydrated
Your body is mostly made up of water so if you're dehydrated, strange things can happen.  Drinking your eight glasses of water each day will keep your metabolism running efficiently, including burning fat instead of storing it.

Get brushing
A healthy circulation will keep your skin looking smooth so invest in a good quality skin brush and use it every day. Brush thighs, tummy, bum etc. in a circular motion always towards your heart.

Get healthy
When it comes to eating to avoid cellulite you need to think natural and avoid toxins.  Maximise fruit and vegetable intake and minimise coffee, alcohol and processed and fast food.

Get started
There's no time like the present to begin your cellulite busting programme.  Here's what to do today:

1. Make part of your workout really tough.  Spend 10 minutes working at a 9 out of 10 effort level.  The easiest way to do this is to get warm and then alternate 1 minute of maximum intensity exercise with 1 minute of recovery for a total of 20 minutes.  This is easier than trying for 10 minutes straight at a really tough level.

2. Drink water right now.  Then buy a big bottle and make sure it's empty by the end of the day.

3. Make a date with yourself to get to the store and buy a skin brush.  If you can't get out today, order one online and use it everyday.

4. Eat two pieces of fruit within the next hour.  Avoid caffeine, pastries, muffins and chocolate for the next 3 hours.

There you have it. Good luck.


Photograph by petname (flickr)

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