I’ve heard it said a few times now that foam rolling can help to reduce cellulite. Of course here at Mobility Guardian we feel obligated to sift through the information and provide you with an answer, let’s get started.
What is cellulite
First off what is cellulite? Cellulite is a type of fat that causes that dimpled look of the skin, prominent in problem areas like the abdomen, thighs, lower body, and any areas where we carry a bit more fat. Cellulite is caused by a combination of complex causes such as:
- Hormonal factors
- Genetics
- Fat distribution
- Lifestyle (stress, diet, etc.)
As you age, cellulite can start to pop up and become more prominent over time. Commonly we gain more fat with age, so it makes sense that there will be more cellulite over the skin as you get older.
Ways to reduce cellulite
Cellulite can be unsightly, and of course you want to do your best to reduce it, so here are some common ways I’ve heard of reducing cellulite:
- Lose weight: Since cellulite is fat, what better way to reduce cellulite than to lose bodyfat? Get your diet in check, and start exercising regularly.
- Get stronger: Some experts say that cellulite is best lost by by strength training to get those muscles firm and strong again.
- Other methods: Anything regarding topical creams, one-time laser procedures, and injections are going to be hit or miss. If you have excess cellulite that likely means you have some bodyfat you could stand to lose. Take the route that requires some hard work sure, but it will also be a more natural and long lasting solution to reducing cellulite.
Those are some common methods and ways to get rid of cellulite, so now let’s talk about foam roller cellulite exercises and how they work.
Foam rolling for cellulite reduction
A study done by MayoClinic.com says that the only “reliable” methods for treating cellulite are leasers and radiofrquency systems. They go on to say that massage is not a reliable solution for cellulite. Foam rolling works wonders on the muscles, providing benefits such as:
Improving circulation throughout the musculoskeletal system
Lengthening and strengthening of muscles
Regaining lost mobility and increasing range of motion
Breaking down fascia which can cause reduced flexibility, soreness, and tightness
So how does all of this help me to reduce cellulite? Realistically, foam rolling alone won’t do anything to the cellulite. There are no scientific studies performed to show that foam rolling can reduce cellulite.
HOWEVER, foam rolling can increase the blood flow, and nutrient flow to the areas afflicted by cellulite which can help with reduction. Foam rolling can also reduce pain and tightness, and increase mobility which could help you to exercise more effectively. Also this can help you develop your muscles and lose fat. Think of foam rolling as part of the bigger picture towards living a healthy lifestyle and helping to reduce your cellulite. You can foam roll any areas of your body with cellulite that you’d like to reduce, and monitor your effects. Here are some of our popular foam rolling tutorials that you can use for your affected areas:
- Foam rolling the hip flexor
- Foam rolling the IT band
- Foam rolling your chest
- Foam rolling the piriformis muscle – Often relieves sciatic nerve and hip pain
If you need a foam roller, check out our best foam roller reviews page to pick the best roller for your needs. Or click here to buy The Grid – the best foam roller by our standards.
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