How to Tone Legs While Sitting

By eHow Travel Editor

Get your legs in shape.

Rate: (45 Ratings)

Car rides, airplanes, desks: We spend so much of our time sitting, why not make the best use of it and get those legs in shape?

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Blankets
Travel Pillows
Carry-on Bags
Pillows
Newspaper
Fitness Magazines

Step1

Raise your heels to work your calves. With a carry-on bag, a stack of magazines, or a heavy Sunday paper on your lap for resistance, plant the balls of your feet, lift your heels from the ground, then lower them.

Step2

Try toe raises, too. With your heels on the ground, lift your toes upward. Either hold them in place or raise and lower them.

Step3

Work those thighs with leg extensions. Placing your feet underneath the seat in front of you for resistance, try to lift your legs as you contract (squeeze) the muscles of your thighs. This can also work without a seat in front of you. Simply extend your legs forward and hold.

Step4

Lean forward as though you're going to get out of your seat. When your rear end is barely off the seat, hold that position. See how long you can hold it, using only your arms for balance.

Step5

Strengthen your inner thighs. Place a pillow, blanket or small carry-on between your feet. Try to lift the item off the ground and squeeze your legs together at the same time. You can also place the blanket, pillow or other soft object between your knees and squeeze.

Step6

Burn those buns with a gluteal squeeze. While sitting, squeeze the muscles of your rear end. Hold, then relax.

Tips & Warnings

Enroll your office mates, fellow passengers or family members to participate. Partners will encourage each other.
Be considerate of those around you.
Don't try these exercises while you're driving.

Comments

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 11/22/2005 When sitting at a place with enough leg room, extend your leg, then bend the knee. Repeat 15 times on each side. Relax. Then do some more.

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 11/22/2005 Some basic ankle weights like the ones sold (as well as wrist weights) are not only good for walking and running, but for when sitting at a computer or desk. Cross weighted legs alternately, or, use a pillow under one thigh to keep the (weighted) foot up off the floor.

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 8/6/2007 If you are writing or typing at a desk, draw the letters with your toe using only your ankle. If your ankle cracks or pops when you do this, stop. It needs to be set by a chiropractor. Switch feet when the first one gets tired.

AbbyNormal said

Flag This Comment

on 4/6/2008 Excellent article!

desolator144 said

Flag This Comment

on 4/4/2008 you know, an added benefit is that on long trips/flights you can prevent blood clots from forming in your legs and traveling up somewhere where it can give you a heart attack or stroke. That's what that one news reporter guy died from in Iraq you know.

View All