We’ve all seen perfectly smooth, toned legs before and wondered how the heck they did it. Especially when you consider that 90% of women will experience the buildup of cellulite in their lifetime.
But surely there must be a way to get rid of cellulite. Sure, CrossFit 300 workouts and healthy eating with the zone diet are a couple of solutions, but what about foam rolling?
In this article, we look at how effective foam rolling is when it comes to getting rid of those pesky skin dimples. We will also discuss different ways that foam rolling can alleviate cellulite and its overall effectiveness.
So carry on reading as we unlock the secret to smoother, tighter skin!
What is Cellulite and Why is it So Hard to Get Rid of?
Cellulite is a word we hear thrown about a lot. It appears in adverts, skin cream packages, and almost everywhere on social media. But what exactly is it?
Cellulite is a skin condition that involves a build-up of fat cells underneath the skin that cause a bumpy appearance.
This skin condition is most prominent on the stomach, buttocks, and legs, where most fat is stored in the body. It causes an almost rippling look on the body and creates a rough-looking texture.
What Causes Cellulite?
Let’s take a look at what causes cellulite for the vast majority of people.
- Genetic factors
- Hormonal factors
- Age (after 25)
- Smoking
- Unhealthy eating
- Sitting or standing in one position for too long
- Poor circulation
- Wearing underwear that’s too tight may cause cellulite on the buttocks
- Other
Some People are Genetically Predisposed to Cellulite
Everyone has a layer of fat between their skin and muscle, but some people are genetically predisposed to more of these fat cells clumping together and causing an uneven skin surface.
Overweight People Tend to Have More Cellulite
The skin and fat in our body are held together by connective tissue, known as fibrous bands. The tissue is not a solid layer; however, so fat can occasionally poke through the holes and rise upwards. This means, therefore, that people who are overweight and have more fat in their bodies have a higher chance of cellulite forming on their skin. Check out: Shoes for overweight walkers.
Other Factors that Contribute to It
The main cause of cellulite is the way that people’s fat cells are predisposed to expand. Of course, there are other factors involved as well. Some say that a poor diet, smoking and even sitting too long can cause cellulite to appear on the skin.
Whatever the causes, this isn’t an issue that only overweight people face. Even those with toned and healthy bodies can have bumpy skin caused by cellulite.
Cellulite Caused by Poor Circulation
Poor circulation is also another reason why some people may have increased cellulite on their bodies. Of course, things like smoking, not drinking enough water and a poor diet can cause this. It’s this reduced circulation that foam rolling can target.
When you use a foam roller, one of the benefits is that it helps to increase blood flow to the area. This can make your muscles feel better because toxins are removed and fresh oxygenated blood is brought to the area. You may also find it can help to reduce cellulite for many of the same reasons.
Besides using a foam roller to increase circulation, you could also consider getting deep tissue massage, or alternating between hot and cold when you take a shower.
How To Get Rid of Cellulite on the Legs and Thighs?
In fact, many active women have reported that they have cellulite appear on their thighs or stomach, despite eating well and exercising often. Even after losing weight, there’s no guarantee that cellulite will disappear. There is even the possibility of it getting worse as the skin loosens.
So why is it so hard to get rid of cellulite? Surely there must be some cream or gel out there that can rub out those “cottage cheese” thighs?
There are No Easy Answers for Getting Rid of Cellulite!
Sadly, there is no simple solution to getting rid of cellulite. Because it is caused by tissues underneath the skin, it’s hard to simply make cellulite vanish by applying skin creams.
The problem lies with a genetic predisposition to how much fat cells expand and rise to the surface of the skin. However, there are some things you can try, like foam rolling or healthy eating that may assist in making the appearance of these patches on the body smoother.
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Can Foam Rolling Really Help Reduce Cellulite?
As mentioned earlier, there is no surefire way to get rid of cellulite. The problem lies beneath the surface (literally).
Foam rolling involves using the exercise device to massage and soothe the skin. Foam rollers are normally used to alleviate muscle pain and speed up recovery after exercise.
They can also help with cellulite if you use them daily. Foam rolling to reduce cellulite works by loosening the fascia (the connective tissue between the fat and skin). In loosening this connective tissue, the fat lies flat under the skin and doesn’t poke through the tissue and rise to the top layer of skin.
Many dermatologists have agreed that foam rolling is a reputable way to reduce cellulite. But it needs to be done often. The fascia is susceptible to loosening and more cellulite will form if it isn’t done regularly.
Because of this, foam rolling is a short-term solution to curing cellulite. It doesn’t get to the root of the problem, but it gives quick results. So, get yourself a foam roller and try it out for yourself today.
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3 Ways to Reduce Cellulite with a Foam Roller
Below are a few ways you can use a foam roller to iron out the cellulite in your skin! The videos attached will give you a visual idea of how to use the foam roller correctly.
Method 1: Hamstring Roll
This technique will smooth out the back of your legs, where a lot of cellulite tends to build up. It can also improve the overall appearance of your thighs in general by tightening the skin.
To do the hamstring roll, sit on the floor with your legs in front of you and place your hands behind you for support. Then, lift your glutes and put the roller under your upper thigh.
Move your body back and forth so that the roller moves across your thighs. Repeat this ten times per day until your legs look and feel firmer. Check out this short video for how to roll the hamstrings effectively.
Method 2: Hip Roll
The hip roll will help to combat the number one place that cellulite forms: the hips. You may have noticed that cellulite is most prominent in your hips. This is because it’s an easy place for fat cells to expand and cause uneven skin.
The hip roll will narrow the hips by limiting fluid retention and therefore, causing the thickness of the fascia to decrease.
To do the hip roll, lie on your right side and keep your right leg extended in front of you. Use your hands to support yourself and bend your left knee to keep yourself upright.
Put the roller under your right hip and lift your torso. Move yourself up and down the roller by bending and extending the left leg, keeping your right leg straight.
Do this ten times before switching sides. Check out this video to find out how to roll the hips with a foam roller:
Method 3: Glute Roll
The buttocks are the main source of fatty cellulite build up. Although the glutes consist of mainly fat, why not smooth out your butt so there’s no dimples on it?
The glute roll involves sitting on the foam roller with one hand behind you on the floor, for support. Place the right leg over the left leg and hold your foot over your knee. Using your hand, guide your butt back and forth over the roller. Repeat for eight to ten reps before switching sides.
Learn more about rolling the hips with a foam roller here:
Can You Get Rid of Cellulite with a Foam Roller? The Takeaway
And there you have it. The short answer is, yes, foam rolling can help you reduce the appearance of cellulite and tighten the skin! So if you want your skin to look plump and ready for summer, be sure to get some foam roller action before you head to the beach!
Using a foam roller to get rid of cellulite: Before and after picture
Which Foam Roller Should I Consider?
If you’re looking for a foam roller, then there are a number of popular ones that you could consider. Here are some of the top picks:
Other Things to Try to Get Rid of Cellulite
If you’re serious about reducing the amount of cellulite on your body, then there are some other things you may want to consider besides a foam roller. Some of these include the following:
- Acoustic wave therapy
- Laser treatment
- Breaking up the cellulite with a needle under the skin
- Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release
- Carboxytherapy
- Deep tissue massage with a vacuum-like device
- Radiotherapy
- Liposuction
- Caffeine creams
- Retinol
- Reduced fat intake and a healthy diet may reduce the appearance of cellulite
Please note that none of these suggestions are scientifically proven to actually work. These are just some theories that doctors and health professionals have, but more research is needed in this area.
How to Get Rid of Cellulite Overnight?
Okay, so you have a big summer wedding coming up and have to wear a bit of a revealing dress. The only problem is that it’s tomorrow. Is there a way to get rid of cellulite overnight?
We’re sorry to be the bearers of bad news, but this just isn’t possible. Most people will not see results until they put in months of consistent effort, and that effort usually consists of things like healthier eating and working out. These things certainly aren’t instant miracle cures.
Can Exercise Get Rid of Cellulite?
You may have heard some rumors that certain exercises can help you reduce cellulite on certain parts of your body. Is this actually true?
According to WebMD, exercise can reduce overall fat in your body, but there is no way to spot-treat a specific area. What it actually takes is a proper diet, good nutrition, adequate circulation and controlling the fat-storage hormones.
However, by using exercise and a proper diet to reduce to lose body fat and tone muscles underneath the cellulite, you can look and start to feel better.
Does Running Get Rid of Cellulite?
If you’re a runner, it’s likely that you’ll have less cellulite, to begin with. Chances are that you are probably not overweight, don’t smoke, and also that you eat a healthier diet, and have good circulation from the exercise you’re doing.
However, if you’re wondering whether or not running can reduce cellulite, you may be in luck. It will certainly tone your leg and muscles, help you to reduce your overall body fat, and also increase circulation. Done consistently and when combined with a healthy diet, it may be possible to have firmer-looking thighs, legs, and other parts of your body.
FAQs
There are a number of common questions that people have about this topic. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.
Can you completely get rid of cellulite?
It’s challenging to completely eliminate cellulite, but various treatments and lifestyle changes can help reduce its appearance.
Are there any effective treatments for cellulite?
Some treatments that can help reduce the appearance of cellulite include massage, topical creams, laser therapy, radiofrequency, and ultrasound.
Can exercise help reduce cellulite?
Regular exercise, especially strength training, and cardiovascular workouts, can help reduce the appearance of cellulite by improving muscle tone and reducing overall body fat.
What role does diet play in cellulite reduction?
A healthy, balanced diet can contribute to cellulite reduction by promoting weight loss, reducing excess fluid retention, and improving skin health.
Can drinking more water help with cellulite?
Staying hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water can help improve overall skin health and elasticity, potentially reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Are there any specific foods that can help reduce cellulite?
While no specific foods directly eliminate cellulite, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support overall skin health and weight management.
Does smoking contribute to cellulite?
Yes, smoking can contribute to the development and worsening of cellulite by reducing blood circulation and damaging the skin’s connective tissues.
Can wearing tight clothing worsen cellulite?
Wearing tight clothing, particularly those with tight elastic bands, can restrict blood flow and contribute to the formation or worsening of cellulite.
Have your Say about How to Get Rid of Cellulite on the Legs and Other Parts of the Body
Do you have any tips or tricks for getting rid of cellulite? Leave a comment below and let us know your tips and tricks.
Also be sure to give this article a share on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter. It’ll help other people concerned about cellulite, like yourself find this useful resource.
Not only is he an avid CrossFitter, but he is also a coach, holding level 1 + 2 CrossFit coaching designations. You will usually find Tony at the local gym where he uses his knowledge of proper nutrition and exercise to help athletes achieve their goals.
Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
