To care for the lower body, especially the buttocks and thighs, where cellulite often likes to settle, squats are an absolute must. Here’s why they deserve a place in your routine, how to do them properly, the 5 mistakes to avoid and why to pair them with palper-roulé massage!
Why are squats perfect for fighting cellulite?
To take care of cellulite, it’s common to combine a balanced diet, massage techniques like the palper-roulé, and… regular physical activity. When it comes to exercise, strength training deserves a place in your routine alongside cardio: it works your muscles deep down. So don’t hold back on muscle-strengthening exercises, ladies!
Among all strength training moves, squats are particularly well-suited to your routine. They engage multiple deep muscle groups: calves, thighs, glutes, abs… The entire lower body gets involved!
How to do squats correctly?
Doing squats is great, but you need to know how to do them properly. There are many squat variations, but here’s the basic movement: stand with your feet hip-width apart, toes slightly turned outwards. Extend your arms in front of you or fold them across your chest, then lower yourself as if you were about to sit down: thighs parallel to the floor, weight on your heels, knees no further forward than your feet, and back straight. Focus on slowing down as you lower and squeezing your glutes as you rise back up.
5 mistakes to avoid when doing squats
Not going low enough
If you don’t squat deep enough, you risk working your legs less effectively, and more importantly, you could injure your knees. Make sure to engage your core throughout the movement and aim to get your thighs parallel to the floor at the lowest point. Never let your knees cave inwards during a squat: the tension could damage your ligaments. Instead, keep your knees pointing in the same direction as your toes, slightly outwards.
There are so many squat variations out there, so make the most of them! Mixing things up will work your muscles differently and prevent your body from adapting to the same movement. Try adding dumbbells, switching to sumo squats, or giving jump squats a go. Variety also keeps things interesting and helps you stay motivated.
Rounding the lower back
Always keep your back straight when squatting. Rounding your lower back creates tension on your spine and increases the risk of injury. Instead, focus on fully engaging your core and keeping your back properly braced throughout the movement.
Forgetting to engage the glutes
Make sure to actively use your glutes during squats, ladies. Consciously squeeze your glute muscles throughout the entire exercise. Beyond injury prevention, this good habit will help you work on the shape of your buttocks!
Shifting your weight forward
For a successful squat, always keep your weight on your heels: you should be able to lift your toes off the floor! Also check that your knees, when bent, don’t extend past your toes. This is how you’ll work your muscles properly as part of your anti-cellulite routine.
Now that you know all this, you’re ready for your squat sessions, ladies!
Don’t forget the palper-roulé massage!
Alongside your strength training sessions, palper-roulé massages are a great complement to care for your legs. For an easy way to include them in your routine, just reach for your CelluBlue Cups, designed to replicate the palper-roulé effect. Incredibly easy to use, they’ll support your massage routine and help you pamper your legs!
Frequently asked questions
How do I get rid of cellulite on my thighs?
There’s no single method. We recommend combining a balanced diet, regular exercise with plenty of strength training, such as squats, and palper-roulé massage, for example with cups.
Do squats make your thighs smaller?
Squats mainly work the muscles in your thighs, bum, calves and abs. They strengthen and tone these muscles, but they aren’t designed to reduce the size of your thighs. Your figure also depends on your diet and your overall activity levels.
Do squats help you lose belly fat?
Squats also work your abs, especially if you remember to engage them and brace your back throughout the movement. However, they don’t specifically target your stomach. It’s best to include them in a regular exercise routine, alongside a balanced diet.
Squats and cellulite: can you see a before-and-after difference?
Every body responds differently and cellulite depends on many factors, so it’s impossible to predict what each person will notice, or when. Focus above all on good technique (see ‘How to do squats correctly?’). If you feel any pain, seek advice from a medical professional.
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