How to Tone Thighs

Sleek and toned thighs are often an unattainable goal for many women. Any extra weight women carry seems to end up on the thighs. Many women complain of their legs rubbing together in this traditional problem area. Let’s face it, toning your inner and outer thighs muscles is going to require a lot of committed hard work.Remember to warm up with a light jog in place and general stretches before completing these exercises. For best results, perform this thigh-toning workout every other day. Posture is extremely important so make sure your back is straight, head facing forward, shoulder aligned and tummy tucked in.The following exercises work on both the inner and outer thighs. These were chosen because no exercise equipment is required, other than a step (which most of us have). Be dedicated to sculpting your legs and you’ll have toned thighs before you know it.

Things You'll Need

• Step aerobics bench (stair or a block roughly step height will also work)
• Stopwatch or timer (optional)

Instructions

1. Stand straight with your feet together. Now take a step to the side so your feet are a little more than shoulder width apart and pointing slightly out. Your arms should be at your sides. Maintain your straight posture as your bends your knees to a squat (thighs should be parallel to the floor) and return to the straight position. Repeat this exercise 15 times. Gradually increase the number of repetitions as your legs get stronger. Remember that your movements should be measured and not rushed. Don’t worry if you can’t get your thighs to parallel position at first. You’ll get there eventually.

2. Vary your regular squat routine by performing straight squats. Stand straight with your feet should width apart. Instead of turning the feet out, toes should be facing forward. With a straight back and arms at the side, slowly bend the knees into a squat. Aim to make your thighs parallel to the floor. Complete 15 reps.

3. Blast away your thighs with simple stair step-ups. It’s best to wear athletic shoes when doing this exercise. Find a stair, step-aerobics bench, or cinder block. Position yourself in front of the step, with your arms at the sides and a straight back. Set your timer for 5 minutes and click start. Step up on the step with your right foot, bring the left foot up next. Now step down with your right foot and follow with your left foot. Continue this step pattern and then switch your starting foot at the 2 ½ minute point. Beware! You’ll feel the burn in your legs.

4. Position your feet together, standing straight. Now take a big step forward with your right leg, placing the foot firmly on the floor. A correct lunge position reflects your right leg in front of your left leg with weight balanced on the ball of the left foot. Now, bend the right knee and return to your starting position. Complete this exercise 15 times per leg.

5. 

   Lie on the floor on your side, resting your weight on your bent arm (elbow and forearm on the floor). Your legs should be straight. Bend the top leg at the knee and place the foot flat on the floor. Your lower leg should still be straight. Keep your body centered and straight. Now, lift your lower leg up as far as you can while continuing to maintain your good posture. Return to your starting position. Complete 15 reps for each side. Remember that each movement should be controlled.